Motorcycle accidents are unlike other collisions on the road. Motorcyclists usually endure the brunt of any collision, sustaining serious injuries. Although the occupants of a car or truck might walk away from the scene, a motorcyclist is more likely to leave in the back of an ambulance.

CLS Law works directly with injured victims to identify why the accident happened. When a road defect or negligent driver is to blame, we can negotiate a settlement for financial compensation with the at-fault party. These are complicated cases, and the road ahead is tough. Call CLS Law as soon as possible to speak with a Scottsdale motorcycle accident lawyer at our firm.

Can You Afford a Scottsdale Motorcycle Lawyer?

Collisions are expensive, and many motorcyclists are struggling financially after suffering an injury. It’s normal to think now is not the time to hire an expensive lawyer.

Call CLS Law. Our legal services are affordable. After a free consultation, we can discuss how we charge for our services. We use contingency fee agreements, which never require upfront payment. You will never owe us a dime unless we win your case. It’s that simple.

Hiring a lawyer is a great boon to any case. You will likely receive more compensation than if you had tackled your case on your own.

Arizona Motorcycle Laws

With over 280,000 registered motorcycles, Arizona is a popular state for motorcyclists. We have several laws on the books that deal solely with bikes:

  • No one under 16 can operate a motorcycle.
  • Only someone with an M registration on their license can legally operate a motorcycle.
  • Helmets are required for all riders under 18 but are not required for adult riders. (ARS § 28-964)
  • Applicants must pass a motorcycle skills test before obtaining an M registration.
  • All motorcyclists should have liability insurance to legally ride.

Further, you need to follow the rules of the road. If you don’t, then you could end up partially to blame for your accident. Any contributory negligence chargeable to a victim will reduce their financial compensation under state law. For example, if you are 30% to blame, then you will receive 30% less in compensation. Remember to ride carefully and defensively. Never expect other motorists on the road to look out for you.

Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents are brutal. Someone riding in a passenger sedan is protected by the vehicle, which will absorb the forces generated. Motorcyclists have no such protection. It isn’t unusual for a motorcyclist to suffer a direct, traumatic blow. Some are thrown from their bikes.

Common injuries include:

  • Broken bones: The intensity of impact can break any bone, including arms, legs, ribs, and even your skull. Fractures must be set quickly and correctly, otherwise complications arise.
  • Road rash: Any exposed skin can suffer a severe abrasion called road rash. This injury often results in infections and permanent scars.
  • Concussions and traumatic brain injuries. A helmet can reduce the risk of a serious brain injury by up to 70%. Unfortunately, many riders suffer serious brain injuries resulting in long-lasting impairments, including memory loss and disability.
  • Organ damage: A motorcyclist can suffer a heart, lung, or kidney injury. A fractured rib can spear a lung, leading to a collapsed lung.
  • Back injuries: The most common back injuries include bulging discs, vertebral fracture, nerve damage, and spinal cord injury. Serious spinal cord injuries result in paralysis.
  • Amputation: A limb can suffer irreparable damage in an accident or, in dramatic cases, be torn off the body.
  • Death: According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, Arizona had 2,911 accidents in 2022, which resulted in 228 fatalities.

Go to the hospital following a crash, even if you are feeling “fine.” Some injuries are slow to develop symptoms, especially brain injuries. Early treatment improves the chances of fully healing.

What is a Fair Settlement?

A settlement should compensate victims for their damages:

  • Emergency medical care, such as ambulance transportation, hospitalization, surgery, x-rays, and medication.
  • Rehabilitation and ongoing care, such as physical therapy, speech therapy, and at-home help for permanent disabilities.
  • Property damage, including damage to your motorcycle.
  • Lost wages or income, lost benefits, and other job-related expenses.
  • Pain and suffering, such as bodily pain.
  • Mental anguish, including depression or anxiety as you struggle to process the accident.

Hundreds of people die in motorcycle accidents. Family members can bring a wrongful death claim for their losses, including the loss of wages earned had their loved one not died in an accident. Reach out to CLS Law to speak with a Scottsdale motorcycle accident attorney.

Defendants in a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit

We seek compensation from whoever is at fault for the accident. In most cases, the defendant will be one of the following:

  • Other motorists. A distracted or negligent driver might have crashed into you at an intersection or while riding on the open road. They could have been speeding or distracted or else failed to yield the right of way.
  • Road authorities. Road defects can cause accidents. Someone who hits a pothole or road debris can lose control of their bike.
  • Motorcycle manufacturers. Malfunctioning parts can contribute to an accident because of a substandard design or poor construction. We can demand the manufacturer pay compensation.
  • Rental company. You might rent a defective motorcycle, in which case the rental company is legally liable.

CLS Wins

Over the years, we have developed techniques that allow us to provide the highest level of representation to our clients. When you hire us, you are obtaining the services of a passionate legal advocate. We don’t believe in waiting for the other side to make a generous settlement offer. Instead, we actively build the strongest case possible that can withstand even a lawsuit in court.

We offer the following services:

  • Case analysis. The first question is whether you even have a valid legal case. We can listen to you describe what happened and review other evidence.
  • Claim evaluation. We also analyze your injuries and come up with a dollar amount. In our experience, most people don’t think their claims are worth enough.
  • Evidence gathering. We find additional evidence in support of your legal arguments. For example, we might speak to witnesses or even inspect the motorcycle involved. This evidence plays an important role in settlement negotiations and, if necessary, a trial.
  • Advocacy and support. Our firm advocates for clients throughout the entire lifecycle of a claim. We advocate whenever we deal with the other side’s insurance company, in writing or over the phone.
  • Negotiation. Formal negotiations kick off with a demand for fair compensation. Our firm is fully prepared to engage in a high-stakes negotiation with a resistant defendant. You have only one chance to receive a fair settlement, and we make sure this one chance counts.
  • Trial representation. We can file a lawsuit in court before the two-year statute of limitations expires. We can prepare evidence to present to the court in support of your claim. Although we settle most cases, we aren’t afraid to put your case in the hands of the jury, if it comes to that.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer, Christopher L. Sullivan

If you were injured in a wreck, give CLS Law a call at (855) 257-9467. Our law firm is focused on using the latest technology to help clients present their stories and receive financial compensation following a painful accident. Our founder, Christopher L. Sullivan, has received many awards from his peers, which are a testament to his knowledge and commitment to the well-being of his clients. You deserve the best lawyer—why not call CLS Law today?