Benefits of Hiring a Motorcycle Attorney
Seeking legal representation provides significant advantages after an accident. At Nelson & Nelson, our attorneys expertly navigate the legal landscape and manage insurance negotiations for you. We ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.
Our team gathers essential evidence, including accident reports, medical records, and witness statements, to build a strong case. We handle all aspects of your claim, from filing to court representation.
With our skilled attorneys on your side, you can concentrate on your recovery while we manage your legal matters. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Belleville, IL, work diligently to secure a fair settlement and ease the stress of legal proceedings, allowing you to move forward with confidence.
Common Motorcycle Injuries
Motorcycle injuries can be severe, painful, and even disabling. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the most common motorcycle accident injuries are:
Leg Injuries: Legs, knees, and feet often suffer injuries in motorcycle crashes, especially fractured or shattered bones. Though these injuries are not usually fatal, they can cause serious and sometimes permanent disabilities. Shattered or fractured bones, road rash, and soft tissue damage are terribly painful and can take a long time to heal.
Arm Injuries: In a car, seat belts and the vehicle’s structure provide protection. On a motorcycle, there’s no shell to shield you. Bikers often extend their arms instinctively during a crash, leading to “biker’s arm.” This can cause nerve damage, severe road rash, broken bones, and permanent injuries.
Head Injuries: Helmet use has significantly reduced head injuries among motorcyclists on U.S. roadways. However, these injuries remain common. Head injuries range from minor to severe concussions, brain damage, or a fractured skull, which can be fatal.
It is important to note that not all helmets are created equally. The ANSI and Snell labels inside motorcycle helmets show they meet safety standards. Non-profit organizations independently evaluate these standards.
Rib Fractures: Thoracic injuries in motorcycle accidents often involve damage to the chest, ribs, and spine due to impact with the ground or other objects. Broken ribs are the most common thoracic injury from motorcycle accidents. They can be serious, especially if they puncture organs or soft tissues.
Neck Injuries: C-spine or neck injuries are common in motorcycle crashes. There is debate about when to remove a helmet, as doing so too soon can worsen injuries. A broken neck can cause permanent paralysis or be fatal. Victims may not immediately realize the severity of their injury, and well-meaning bystanders might unknowingly cause more harm.
What to Do if You are Injured in a Motorcycle Accident
If you’re riding a motorcycle and get into a crash, act quickly to secure the compensation you deserve. It is crucial to protect your rights if the other party blames you:
- Do not admit fault. When you are in an accident of any kind, the facts are not always apparent. The events may also shake you, and you may not fully comprehend what occurred. Never admit fault on the scene to the police or an insurance company.
- Ensure your safety on the scene. Depending on the accident’s location, you may need to move vehicles off the roadway to maintain safety. Use flashers and/or cones to protect people involved and keep other vehicles away from debris.
- Do not move an unconscious or injured victim. Do not remove an injured person’s helmet or move them unless absolutely necessary. Spinal injuries can worsen or become fatal if you do not move a victim using C-spine injury precautions.
- Call the police. This is an essential step in documenting the accident. An officer will write a report, so be sure to ask for the report number for your reference.
- Take photos. Document vehicle damage, injuries, and the position of vehicles if you can do so safely.
- Seek medical attention. Pain and injuries may not be evident immediately after a crash due to adrenaline. Visit the emergency room or a doctor to check for aches, bruising, or broken bones. This documentation will be important if you file an injury claim later.
- Document, document, document. Keep records of the accident, including images, reports, and medical bills and records until the claim is settled. Use either hard copies or scans.
- Contact a motorcycle attorney. Insurance companies might try to settle quickly or blame you to avoid providing you with full compensation. At Nelson & Nelson, we ensure you understand your rights and receive fair compensation for your accident injuries and damages.
Personal Injury FAQ
What an Attorney Can Recover for You
Our motorcycle attorneys can help you recover compensation, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Additionally, they may pursue damages for long-term disability or future medical costs. Their goal is to ensure that you receive full compensation for all the impacts of your injury.
How Nelson & Nelson Maximizes Your Compensation
Our personal injury lawyers thoroughly analyze your motorcycle accident case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. We work with medical professionals to assess the full extent of your injuries, considering long-term effects and future expenses. By securing the compensation you deserve, we allow you to focus on your recovery and rebuilding your life.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Belleville, IL
If you or a loved one is a motorcycle accident victim, contact Nelson & Nelson today. You can call (618) 205-9899 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free case evaluation.
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Still Have Questions? Learn More.
For more information on handling your motorcycle accident and to get answers to common questions, visit our FAQ page. It provides detailed insights into the legal process, what to expect, and how Nelson & Nelson can assist you.
Personal Injury FAQ
