Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Riding a motorcycle can be thrilling, but it carries many risks. Some are obvious, such as not having the same protection from external forces that enclosed vehicles afford. Other risks are not as apparent, such as the reliability of safety equipment that drivers of other vehicles don’t need to use.  Any injury while you are on a motorcycle calls out for the need to speak with an experienced Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer like Lee Ciccarelli and his team.  Contact them 24/7 by phone, Text or Email.

Reach Out To A Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

At Ciccarelli Law Offices, our Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorneys care about riders in Pennsylvania. We do not believe accident victims should have to pay for accidents they did not cause. Our accident lawyers can help victims with catastrophic injuries collect fair compensation for their past and future expenses from the at-fault party.

Our law firm handles serious injury and wrongful death cases arising from motor vehicle accidents of all kinds. Our Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorney will work hard to obtain full financial recovery for you as the victim of a crash or a mourning family member. Find out if you have a case today by calling (610) 692-8700.

Our Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Get You the Compensation You Deserve

As your Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer, Lee Ciccarelli can take care of every component of your case from start to finish. From investigating the accident and identifying the correct defendant to filing your civil claim in pursuit of fair damages, your attorney will handle the paperwork and litigation side of things while you focus on physical and emotional recovery.

Your lawyer will take over insurance claim negotiations on your behalf, fighting for fair settlement offers from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. He can also take the defendant to court for better damage recovery, if necessary. You do not have to deal with a confusing injury lawsuit alone. Your Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorney from Ciccarelli Law Offices will be with you every step of the way.

Why Choose A Philadelphia Motorcycle Lawyer From Ciccarelli Law Offices?

• Our founding attorney, Lee Ciccarelli, started his plaintiffs’ practice after 10 years of litigation experience in complex court trials throughout Pennsylvania.
• Our firm is devoted to client satisfaction, treating each client with respect and compassion. We are passionate about protecting motorcyclists’ rights.
• Our Philadelphia accident lawyers have secured outstanding results for past clients.
• Our firm takes motorcycle crash cases in Philadelphia PA on a contingency fee basis, so you do not have to worry about paying any legal fees out of pocket. NO FEES UNLESS WE WIN.

What Are Some Motorcycle Crash & Injury Statistics?

Motor vehicle accidents happen every day in the United States. Unfortunately, those that involve motorcycles are far more likely to be seriously damaging or fatal to victims. In just one year, motorcycle accidents killed 4,586 people, and recent studies from the Insurance Information Institute show that motorcyclists are roughly 26 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger cars and other enclosed vehicles.

Unfortunately, one of the most common injuries associated with motorcycle accidents is a traumatic brain injury. Most head injuries sustained from a motorcycle crash are fatal. Helmets help prevent death and brain injuries, but currently, only 19 states and Washington, D.C., have helmet laws requiring riders to wear them.

What Are The Most Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents In Philadelphia?

Although motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other motor vehicles on the road, drivers need to be well aware of all of their surroundings. Unfortunately, the speed and maneuverability afforded by motorcycles tend to encourage some unsafe driving practices among riders, and often these maneuvers are fatally costly.

Lane Splitting

One of the most dangerous activities a motorcycle rider can engage in is “lane splitting,” in which the motorcycle will weave between lanes of traffic to overtake and pass other vehicles, or share a lane next to another vehicle rather than properly passing them. Just as motorcycles need the same respect and attention as all other motor vehicles, motorcyclists need to follow the same PA traffic laws expected of all drivers. Simply because they can maneuver with more speed and agility doesn’t mean they should.

Fatigued or Impaired Driving

As with any other motor vehicle, a driver under the influence of illicit drugs or alcohol should not use a motorcycle. Likewise, fatigued or sleepy drivers should not use motorcycles either. Operating any vehicle in an impaired state endangers everyone on the road, the rider included.

Unsafe Left-Hand Turns

Most motorcycle accidents involving another car happen when that car is making a left-hand turn. Such situations account for 42% of all motorcycle accidents with cars. Usually, as the car makes a left-hand turn, the motorcycle will either continue straight past through the intersection and is unable to stop or swerve in time, or the motorcyclist is attempting to pass or overtake the car in an unsafe manner and does not realize the car’s driver intends to turn.

In these situations, Pennsylvania law operates under comparative negligence law, meaning victims of an accident can be partially at fault for the accident, and their claimable damages will be reduced by a proportionate amount based on the percentage of fault they have in the incident.

Motorcyclists need to exercise an extra degree of caution on the road. While all drivers are expected to follow traffic laws, motorcycle riders need to understand that their bikes afford them much less protection than other vehicles would, and that a mistake or unsafe decision while driving can be much more costly than in another vehicle. Such mistakes are also far more likely to be fatal. Motorcycle riders need to follow the same rules of the road as they would when driving a passenger car to limit their risk of a serious accident.

Hazardous Weather

Motorcycles are also more susceptible to hazardous road conditions compared to other vehicles. Rain, snow, ice, and other weather elements are much more dangerous for motorcyclists than drivers of passenger vehicles. Road construction can sometimes leave roads uneven or slick. Dead animals on the road can even be a serious hazard for motorcycles compared to other vehicles, due to their smaller size.

How Are Motorcycle Accidents Caused By Road Conditions?

Motorcyclists are more prone to accidents from dangerous roadway defects than other motorists in Philadelphia. While a pothole may pop a tire and inconvenience a driver, it could cause a motorcyclist catastrophic injuries. Defects such as obstructed roadway signs, broken traffic lights, debris in the road, loose gravel, a fallen tree, uneven shoulders, ice, snow, potholes, and unsafe construction zones could cost a motorcyclist his or her life.

If a road defect causes a motorcycle accident, the City of Philadelphia could be liable for related injuries or deaths. It is the city’s responsibility to take care of its roads and highways. This duty includes sending maintenance crews to promptly respond to complaints, inspect roads and conduct adequate repairs. If the city fails to exercise a reasonable degree of care in roadway maintenance and this leads to a motorcycle accident, the victim may be able to file a claim against the government. Need help? The Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorneys at Ciccarelli Law Offices will protect your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve. Call our PA law firm today!

Can I Sue Pennsylvania’s Local Government for My Injuries?

Pennsylvania’s Sovereign Immunity Act states that injured plaintiffs may file claims against the government in specific situations. If a government agency or one of its employees commits a negligent act that injures another person, the victim may file a claim for recovery against the at-fault government entity. Claims against the government in Pennsylvania must follow unique rules and requirements.

If your motorcycle accident case involves government liability, you or your lawyer must file a claim within the statute of limitations. You have six months from the date of your motorcycle accident to file an official written notice of the claim with the correct government agency. From there, your lawyer will either negotiate a settlement or take the defendant to court in pursuit of fair recompense for your damages. Working with a Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer can make navigating your claim easier.

Statute of Limitations on Philadelphia Motorcycle Accidents

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations is two years. This statute applies to wrongful death cases as well. In some cases, there may be exceptions, but it is always in the best interest of the motorcycle injury victim to act fast. 

For motorcycle accidents, from the moment of the accident, the clock on the statute of limitations begins ticking. Certain things might affect the two-year deadline for filing a personal injury claim. Not being aware of injuries at the time of the accident, or if you were hindered by your injuries from being able to file, could impact the statute of limitations for your accident.

Deadlines Following a Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle accident, Pennsylvania requires you to report the accident to the police. The deadline for doing so is five days. If you have not already reported your accident to the police, we can help you to file your report and can catalog any apparent injuries you may have sustained. 

If you have already filed a report, but because of your injuries, it needs to be amended, our attorneys can ensure that your revised report is documented. 

Seeking Medical Attention After a Motorcycle Accident

It is always recommended that you seek medical attention after any vehicular accident, especially after a motorcycle collision. Seek immediate medical attention for the following reasons:

• To outline the precise injuries you have suffered, so treatment can promptly begin.
• So you can gather documentation proving your injuries were a result of your motorcycle accident.
• To protect yourself from the consequences of an undetected injury, you should be checked out by a doctor.
• Getting checked out by a medical professional may provide needed proof of injury if it becomes necessary to file a legal action.

Seeing a doctor could save your life, if you are in shock or are experiencing an adrenaline spike, you may not understand the extent of your injuries. Internal injuries and bleeding require a medical professional to detect. 

While there is no a deadline for receiving medical treatment following a motorcycle accident, it is important that you do not delay in getting medical help. 

Accidents Caused by a Motorcycle Product Defect | Who is Liable?

In some situations, a motorcycle may crash due to a faulty part or a defect in the manufacture of the motorcycle. While manufacturing defects happen with passenger cars as well, they are far more likely to cause serious personal injuries to motorcyclists due to the nature of the vehicle.

If a court finds that a motorcycle manufacturer engages in unsafe manufacturing processes, produces faulty parts or vehicles, or fails to test its vehicles adequately for any performance defects, the company may be liable for damages. All product manufacturers are required to use consistent processes and perform quality assurance to ensure that all their products meet design specifications.

Do You Have a Lawsuit? Call our Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Attorneys for a Case Evaluation

Inherent flaws in design can also produce defective products. Many automotive accidents have occurred due to faulty designs. Defective manufacturing processes can include faulty design, flawed or inconsistent construction or assembly, or failure to warn consumers of all possible risks associated with the use of the product.

Motorcyclists also should be using protective gear such as helmets, road leather, and padded equipment. If their gear fails to perform as intended or advertised, and it doesn’t prevent an injury, the manufacturer should be accountable for releasing a faulty or falsely advertised product. If a motorcyclist’s injuries are due to a defective vehicle, or a piece of their safety equipment did not perform as advertised, seeking an experienced attorney will make obtaining compensation for this negligence much easier.

What Are Typical Injuries from Philadelphia Motorcycle Crashes?

motorcycle accidents carry many of the same risks as other motor vehicle crashes do, but usually, the personal injuries that result are far more severe due to the lack of vehicular protection. For example, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is never acceptable or safe for any driver under any circumstances, but motorcyclists who drive while intoxicated are far more likely to suffer fatal injuries than impaired drivers of passenger cars are.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can result in innumerable injuries. Traumatic brain injuries are extremely common in motorcycle accidents. Although helmet use is strongly encouraged by motorcycle manufacturers and law enforcement organizations, the use of Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmets is roughly 60%, meaning the other 40% of riders do not use helmets or at least do not DOT-approved ones. Traumatic brain injuries can lead to serious disabilities, long-term medical complications, increased susceptibility to future brain injuries, and death.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Broken bones may be the least traumatic injury that results from a motorcycle collision. Spinal injuries are also very common. Motorcyclists thrown from their bikes at high speed are likely to tumble violently, contorting or breaking the spine. The spinal cord is one of the most vital parts of the human body but does not possess the ability to heal itself. Spinal cord injuries are permanent, and they can cause paralysis or the loss of motor functions.

Road Rash

When a crash tosses a motorcyclist off the vehicle, the cyclist will likely suffer “road rash,” a term used to describe friction burns sustained from sliding across the asphalt. Motorcycle riders often wear road leathers, which are heavy-duty protective leather garments meant to sustain the damage of sliding across the ground and protect the wearer from road rash. However, they are not always successful, and some riders do not wear them at all. Anyone operating a motorcycle should always use DOT-approved protective equipment. speak to a Philadelphia road rash lawyer today to learn more!

What Damages Are You Entitled To? Who is Liable?

Motorcyclists are entitled to the same legal rights as any other driver of any other vehicle on the road. Even though motorcycle riders should be exercising a heightened degree of caution while riding, that doesn’t excuse other drivers from any damage they cause if they imperil other drivers on the road with unsafe practices.

If another driver strikes a motorcyclist and causes an accident due to unsafe driving practices, they need to be accountable for the damage they cause. That damage is likely going to be far greater than had they struck another passenger vehicle. The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) reminds all motorists to safely share the road with motorcycles and use extra caution to ensure their safety. They also encourage motorcyclists to keep themselves as visible as possible to other drivers.

Though there are unique aspects to a motorcycle collision, as with any personal injury claim, the victim must prove that the defendant was negligent in some way. Proving negligence depends on establishing three things:

• The defendant had a duty to act with reasonable care. On the road, this means following the traffic laws and staying within posted speed limits. This also means exercising caution around motorcyclists and not engaging in aggressive or irresponsible driving maneuvers.
• They breached this duty of care. This may mean failing to properly signal before making a lane change or turn, or failing to check their rear-view mirrors before making such maneuvers. It could also mean the other driver was driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or driving at excessive speed.
• The defendant’s actions directly caused the victim’s injuries. The victim must show that there would have been no injuries if the defendant had exercised a reasonable degree of caution.

Motorcycle crashes can quickly become extremely complex. For example, another driver may strike a motorcyclist and cause an accident, throwing him or her from the bike. The rider may sustain an injury, but if his or her helmet breaks from impact when it was advertised as safe at higher speeds, the manufacturer may be held responsible for part of the injury. The victim may then be able to claim damages against the other driver for the unsafe actions, as well as file a product liability claim against the helmet’s manufacturer for releasing an unsafe product.

In addition to seeking compensation for medical bills, the cost of necessary surgeries and ongoing treatments, property damage for a damaged or destroyed motorcycle, pain and suffering, and lost wages from missed time from work, the victim may also be entitled to punitive damages. Punitive damages could go to the victim if the defendant was engaging in any illegal activity at the time of the accident. This may include operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol or fleeing from authorities for another crime.

Due to the increased safety risks of motorcycles, victims are much less likely to survive severe injuries after a crash. In such cases, their loved ones will need to settle their affairs after their deaths. They will not only have to pursue a wrongful death claim but also file for compensation for the deceased’s lost wages and services to the family, consider any possible product liability claims, and possibly pursue punitive damages against the other driver.

What to do Following a Motorcycle Accident In Philadelphia 

Motorcycle accidents can be terrifying, and the consequences of a motorcycle collision can be catastrophic. There are some steps you should take if you are able:

• Call 911
• Check on others involved in the accident so you can report their condition to the 911 operator
• Photograph or video the scene of the accident, including road conditions, anything out of the ordinary, the condition of the motorcycle and other vehicles, tag numbers, and weather conditions
• Seek medical attention, even if you do not feel that you are injured. You could be in shock or experiencing a surge of adrenaline that may camouflage your injuries
• Cooperate with law enforcement, but keep communication brief
• Exchange contact information with witnesses and others involved in the crash
• Do not admit fault, even if your first impulse is to apologize. Anything you say could come back to haunt you when filing a claim
• Report your accident to your insurance company as soon as possible
• Contact a Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorney
• Write down all the details of the accident while they are fresh in your mind
• Keep an accounting of all of the medical procedures and the costs that you have to endure

If you are physically able, taking the above steps can ultimately help you to gain a fair settlement following a motorcycle accident. 

How Many Motorcycle Accidents Occur in Philadelphia Each Year?

As one of the biggest cities in the United States, Philadelphia is known for its traffic jams and congested roads. While cars, trucks, and buses are the most common vehicles on these streets, motorcycles are also becoming a popular form of transportation. Unfortunately, riding a motorcycle comes with its own set of risks, particularly when it comes to accidents. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the number of motorcycle accidents that occur in Philadelphia every year, and what you can do to stay safe on two wheels.

According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, there were 1,128 motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia in 2019. Out of these, 935 resulted in injuries, and 22 were fatal. While this is a decrease from previous years, it is still a concerning number. The majority of these accidents occurred in the summer months, with June, July, and August being the most dangerous times to ride a motorcycle.

One of the main reasons for motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia is the lack of visibility. Many drivers simply do not see motorcycles, either because they are too small or because they are in the driver’s blind spot. In addition, Philadelphia’s roads are often in disrepair, with potholes, bumps, and uneven surfaces that can cause a motorcyclist to lose control of their bike.

Another factor that contributes to motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia is alcohol. In some cases, a rider may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, which impairs their judgment and reaction time. However, it’s not just the motorcyclist who may be drunk – other drivers on the road may also be impaired, making it more difficult for everyone to stay safe.

To prevent motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia, there are a few things you can do. First, always wear a helmet and other protective gear, such as gloves and boots. This can significantly reduce your risk of injury if you are involved in an accident. Additionally, make sure your motorcycle is in good working condition before you ride, and be sure to follow all traffic laws and signals. Finally, try to stay visible on the road by wearing brightly colored clothing and using your headlights during the day.

In conclusion, motorcycle accidents are a significant problem in Philadelphia, with over 1,000 accidents occurring each year. While there are a number of factors that contribute to these accidents, including visibility, road conditions, and alcohol, there are also steps that riders can take to reduce their risk of injury. By following basic safety tips and being vigilant on the road, you can help ensure that your next ride is a safe one.

Understanding Philadelphia Motorcycle Accidents and Their Devastating Consequences

Riding a motorcycle can be thrilling – there’s no denying that. However, it’s also an inherently risky activity and one that can have devastating consequences when accidents occur. In the city of Philadelphia, motorcycle accidents are far too common and are often associated with some of the most severe and life-altering injuries imaginable. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the reasons why motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia are so dangerous and what riders can do to minimize the risks.

1. Congestion and traffic – One of the primary reasons why motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia can be so catastrophic is due to the high levels of traffic congestion in the city. With so many cars, trucks, and buses on the road, motorcycles can easily become lost in the mix. Additionally, motorcycles are much smaller and more maneuverable than other vehicles, which can make them more difficult for other drivers to see and avoid. As a result, motorcycle accidents are more likely to occur, and when they do, they can be deadly.
2. Poor road conditions – Another factor contributing to the risks of riding a motorcycle in Philadelphia is the poor condition of many of the city’s roads. Potholes, uneven terrain, and poorly marked lanes can all contribute to accidents. Motorcycles, in particular, are vulnerable to these dangers as they have only two wheels and rely heavily on balance and stability. Even a minor bump in the road can be enough to send a rider off balance, causing a collision.
3. Reckless driving – Some motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia occur due to the reckless driving behavior of other motorists. Driver distractions, such as cell phone use and eating behind the wheel, can cause them to overlook motorcyclists and leave riders with little time to react. In some cases, drivers may even intentionally cut off or collide with motorcycles, out of malice or ignorance. This type of behavior can leave motorcyclists with severe injuries that can affect them for life.
4. Lack of safety gear – While riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating, it’s also an activity that requires a lot of responsibility and attention to safety. Unfortunately, some riders do not take this responsibility seriously, failing to wear appropriate safety gear such as helmets and protective clothing. When accidents occur, riders without helmets are far more likely to suffer serious head injuries, while those without protective clothing are more likely to suffer from cuts, scrapes, and abrasions. It’s crucial for all riders to take their safety seriously and to wear appropriate gear at all times.
5. The need for rider education – Ultimately, reducing the risks of motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia requires a combination of responsible riding practices and better education for both riders and other drivers. By learning the skills and techniques needed to ride safely, riders can protect themselves from many of the dangers that exist on the city’s roads. Additionally, all motorists should take time to learn how to safely share the road with motorcycles and be extra vigilant when approaching intersections and merging onto highways

Riding a motorcycle can be both exciting and dangerous. While there’s no way to completely eliminate the risks of riding in a city like Philadelphia, riders can take steps to reduce their risks and protect themselves from harm. By wearing appropriate safety gear, practicing responsible riding, and staying vigilant at all times, riders can minimize the risks of accidents and enjoy the many thrills that come with riding a motorcycle. Ultimately, by learning to share the road safely and responsibly, all drivers can help reduce the number of motorcycle accidents on Philadelphia’s roads and help ensure a safer, more enjoyable environment for everyone.

Contact a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

As with any personal injury claim, having a reliable, compassionate attorney will make a world of difference when it comes to pursuing damages for your ordeal. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in the Philadelphia area, you should turn to legal professionals with extensive experience in motorcycle accidents and the resources to tackle every aspect of your case so you can focus on healing and getting your life back on track after sustaining injury.

The Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorneys at Ciccarelli Law Offices are compassionate and well versed in all forms of personal injury law. We understand how serious motorcycle accidents can be, and we believe that riders are entitled to the same legal rights as any other driver on the road. Motorcycle accidents can be extremely injurious, and our mission is for victims to focus on healing rather than fretting about legal entanglements.

Let us handle your case while you worry about yourself and get better. Reach out to our team of Philadelphia injury attorneys at Ciccarelli Law if you have any questions about Philadelphia motorcycle law or if you want to start reviewing your case. We pursue every possible avenue of compensation for our clients. Regardless of whether a drunk or distracted driver, a defective vehicle or safety product or an improperly marked road hazard caused your injuries, we work to obtain the maximum compensation possible for our clients.