Motorcyclists face unique dangers on the road. The Arizona Department of Transportation reports that motorcycle accidents in the state often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the lack of protective barriers between riders and other vehicles or objects. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Scottsdale, it’s crucial to consult with a local lawyer who specializes in these sorts of cases.
The team of Scottsdale motorcycle accident lawyers at Esquire Law is familiar with Arizona traffic laws, local court procedures, and the unique challenges motorcyclists face compared to other motorists. We will investigate the accident, gather evidence from Scottsdale’s traffic cameras or local witnesses, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. If necessary, we will go one step further and represent you in Maricopa County courts to ensure you receive fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
While Scottsdale’s roads offer thrilling rides and scenic views for motorcycle riders, accidents can have devastating consequences. By working with Esquire Law, you can protect your rights and focus on recovery knowing that a legal professional is advocating for your interests and compensation.
Why You Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Scottsdale
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the roads. The lack of external protection – not to mention the size differences between motorcycles and other types of vehicles – can result in severe (and often fatal) consequences for riders.
We take risks every time we operate a motor vehicle. Esquire Law understands the unique threats that motorcycle riders, in particular, face when they helmet up and hit the road. We’re familiar with the common causes of motorcycle accidents, the types of injuries motorcyclists typically sustain, and what to do immediately following an accident.
At Esquire Law, we care about protecting your rights like your helmet protects your head.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident as a result of someone else’s negligence, you’re legally owed compensation resulting from damages or losses you suffered. However, motorcycle accident cases can be complex, encompassing insurance claims, liability determination, and various legal procedures. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer like Esquire Law can guide you through all these steps, making sure that your rights are protected along the way. We’re familiar with Scottsdale’s unique legal systems, so we possess the knowledge needed to award you the maximum compensation owed for your injuries.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Understanding why motorcycle accidents happen is the first step in their prevention.
As you’re probably well aware, distracted driving is one of the most common causes of accidents on the road. Whether those around you are on their phones or they’re focused on Scottsdale’s roadside rock formations when they should be focusing on the road in front of them, distracted driving can easily be avoided.
Other common causes of motorcycle accidents in Scottsdale include:
Speeding
If you’re running late for an appointment or simply excited about getting to your destination, driving significantly above the posted speed limit reduces reaction time, making it highly unlikely to prevent an accident.
Drunk Driving
Alcohol accounts for approximately 17% of all fatal crashes in Arizona. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol dulls the senses, slowing reaction times and impairing decision-making. This poses a danger to both the driver and others on the road.
Road Hazards
Insufficient drainage can lead to pooling of water and rock slides can create obstructions on the road. In both cases, road hazards like these may be difficult to see until it’s too late. When struck at high speeds, they can cause the rider to be ejected from their motorcycle.
Vehicle Defects
Faulty brakes that fail to stop promptly can cause rear-end collisions. Your motorcycle is a complex machine, engineered with moving parts that can fail you at a moment’s notice and put you at risk on the road.
Types of Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
As you can see, motorcycle accidents happen for a variety of reasons. Injuries resulting from these types of accidents can vary depending on the speed at which vehicles are traveling and the point of impact. However, because motorcyclists don’t have the same protective enclosures around them that cars do, the injuries tend to be severe.
Beyond the physical pain, motorcycle accident injuries may also lead to emotional pain and suffering. For example, a motorcyclist who suffered a permanent injury following an accident might also struggle with diminished quality of life due to the mental anguish associated with adjusting to their debilitation.
The team of Scottsdale motorcycle accident lawyers at Esquire Law will help you receive compensation that reflects the extent of the damages resulting from your injuries.
Injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents can include:
- Head injuries
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Psychological trauma
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Scottsdale
After a motorcycle accident, you may be unsure about what to do. Especially since head injuries are common for motorcyclists, you might feel disoriented which could further cloud your judgment. However, your actions in the immediate aftermath of a motorcycle accident can significantly impact both your safety and, later, any legal action you decide to pursue.
Here are a few helpful tips for motorcycle accident victims in Scottsdale:
- Ensure your safety first: Move to a secure location off Scottsdale’s busy roads, such as onto a sidewalk or into a nearby parking lot, to avoid additional hazards from passing vehicles.
- Alert authorities: Contact the Scottsdale Police Department or call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to get checked by paramedics or visit a local hospital. This creates an official record of your injuries, which can be valuable for any future claims.
- Document the scene: Scottsdale’s sunny weather usually provides good conditions for taking clear photos and videos. Capture images of the accident site, including any damage to your motorcycle, other vehicles involved, and the surrounding area. Note any relevant factors like road construction or obscured traffic signs common in rapidly developing areas of Scottsdale.
- Gather information: Collect contact details from witnesses and other involved parties. Scottsdale residents and tourists are often willing to help, so don’t hesitate to ask for their accounts of what happened.
- Be cautious with insurance companies: While you should notify your insurer about the accident, avoid giving any sort of detailed, recorded statement until you’ve consulted with a Scottsdale motorcycle accident lawyer.
- Seek legal advice: Contact a Scottsdale motorcycle accident attorney like Esquire Law as soon as possible to see if you have a legal case. We can help preserve crucial evidence while it’s fresh, handle communications with insurance companies, and ensure you meet all legal deadlines specific to Arizona law. An experienced local lawyer will navigate the complexities of Scottsdale’s legal system and work towards maximizing your compensation.
How a Scottsdale Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Esquire Law believes that personalized attention and aggressive representation are the keys to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.
Based in Phoenix and familiar with the challenges unique to Arizona riders, we know how to push back against unfair assumptions and insurance company tactics. Our local experience helps ensure your story is heard and your case gets the attention it deserves.
We start by getting to know you and the circumstances of your motorcycle accident during a free case evaluation. We then initiate a thorough investigation, gathering police reports, medical records, photos/videos, witness accounts, and expert testimony, all of which is used to build a strong case built on reliable, physical evidence. Leveraging this evidence, we will negotiate with insurance companies for a fair settlement on your behalf.
If negotiations fail, or if further action is needed to obtain justice, Esquire Law can pursue legal action and represent you in court. We will prepare for trial and litigate in front of a judge and jury, if necessary, to make sure you receive a favorable verdict. In addition to providing the peace of mind and financial compensation needed for a full recovery, successful lawsuits hold negligent parties accountable, preventing future motorcycle incidents from occurring in Scottsdale.
Choosing the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Scottsdale
Esquire Law is a personal injury law firm committed to providing legal representation for those involved in motorcycle accidents in Scottsdale. We combine the resources of a big firm with the personalized attention and transparent communication of a small firm. From the initial consultation, clients understand why they can trust Esquire Law during their time of need. When insurance companies try to undervalue your case, our attorneys fight relentlessly to maximize your compensation.
We’re so confident in our ability to defend justice for motorcycle accident victims that we operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t be charged any upfront or out-of-pocket expenses. In other words, you will not pay any legal fees unless we achieve a favorable outcome in your case and recover fair compensation to which you are entitled. As a motorcycle accident victim facing medical expenses, this is especially beneficial to you during your time of need to hold offenders accountable for their actions.
Esquire Law’s reputation, experience, and client-focused approach make us the trusted choice for those seeking top-tier legal representation after sustaining injuries.
Were you rear-ended in traffic? Our client was awarded $325,000 in compensation following a similar accident.
Were you struck by another vehicle making an illegal turn? We helped another client receive $300,000 after suffering injuries from this type of accident.
Our case results speak for themselves, with clients having been awarded millions after entrusting us with their recovery process.
Client Testimonials
We have a proven track record of securing substantial settlements and favorable verdicts for motorcycle accident victims. What we do makes a difference in the lives of our clients and the Scottsdale community at large. Just take a look at what some of them have to say:
Esquire Law
4747 N 22nd St Suite 300, Phoenix
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Needing to find the right law group can be very intimidating for a first timer. I went online and reached out to about 7 or 8 law offices, Esquire Law was the only group that immediately responded.I am very pleased and satisfied with the outcome of my Auto Accident Case.Susan Odeh was my Attorney along … More with Rachell Ventress and their assistant William Dix who followed up and kept me well informed throughout the entire case with always prompt call backs with answers to my many, many questions.Everyone was very pleasant, empathetic and professional. Best of all they under promised and over delivered. Much to my surprise they all turned a bad car accident into a good experience for me.Thank you all so much.I will always recommend you for your great service.
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I would like to express my deepest appreciation for my attorney Bryce and paralegal Nicole. Their dedication, professionalism, and compassion were evident from the beginning of my case. During one of the most difficult periods of my life, they stood by me, offering guidance, patience, and reassurance—even … More when I reached out repeatedly in moments of stress and uncertainty.Their commitment to achieving the best possible outcome never wavered, and they ultimately secured a settlement that exceeded my expectations. I am truly grateful for their hard work and unwavering support. I would confidently recommend Bryce and Nicole to anyone seeking exceptional legal representation.
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They worked with me to get me a very good settlement. Ryan, the Lawyer, kept me informed of what was going on with the insurance company at every step. He worked hard to get the best and the most from the insurance for me. Thank you Ryan. Thank you Esquire Law.
See why others trust Esquire Law and read more of our glowing reviews here.
Speak with a Trusted Scottsdale Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
When you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t settle for less than you deserve. The team of Scottsdale motorcycle accident lawyers at Esquire Law has the experience to fight for the full, fair compensation you’re owed.
Get a free, no-obligation case evaluation today. We’ll get started on preparing your case while you get started on recovering. Call us at (602) 654-0635.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Can Be Held Liable For Injuries Resulting From a Motorcycle Crash?
Anyone who was operating the vehicle at the time of the accident can be held liable. Pedestrians, insurance companies, and public entities may also be held liable.
If a Car, Truck, or Other Motorcycle Drives My Bike Off The Road And Then Flees, Can I File a Personal Injury Claim?
Yes, you can file a personal injury claim if the at-fault driver flees. This would be considered a hit-and-run accident. In a hit-and-run case, you’ll have to file a claim through your motorcycle insurance company.
Do I Need An Expert to Testify in a Motorcycle Liability Case?
You might. Complicated motorcycle accident cases may require a forensic investigator who can give expert testimony after evaluating the evidence.
If I Don’t Have Motorcycle Insurance, Can I Still Make a Personal Injury Claim?
You can still file a claim if you don’t have motorcycle insurance. Call Esquire Law to learn more about how you can file a personal injury claim.
Will Not Wearing a Helmet Affect My Claim?
In Arizona, motorcyclists over the age of 18 are not required to wear a helmet. However, all motorcyclists and their passengers should wear helmets. If you aren’t wearing a helmet, it’s best to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer.
FAQs
Motorcycle crashes often result in more severe injuries because of the lack of protection motorcycles offer. Our team can assist you in constructing a robust case. This will ensure you receive compensation for the complete extent of your motorcycle accident injuries.
Not wearing a helmet can potentially impact your claim. Not wearing a helmet doesn’t automatically put you at fault, but it might impact your compensation amount. Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help you understand the implications of your specific case.
What is the most important thing to do after you’ve been in an accident? The first thing that you should always do is call the police. If they’re not willing to make a report, then you want to make sure that you document everything. Take photos of the vehicles, the insurance cards, the license plates, and the scene. Look around for witnesses—did anyone see the accident who can help you? Are there any cameras nearby where you can collect footage?
After that, the most important thing is to get medical treatment. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, you should still get checked out. Often, adrenaline masks pain at the scene, and injuries can show up later. Documenting your injuries and symptoms early is one of the most important parts of bringing a successful claim.
A lot of times, when you’re in an accident, you don’t feel symptoms right away because your adrenaline is running high and you’re nervous and scared. Then later, you go home, and your symptoms start to develop, and they may develop slowly over time.
But the longer you wait to see a doctor, the more likely it is that the insurance company is going to say that something happened between the accident and the doctor’s visit that caused your injuries. They’re not going to believe that you were just at home, hoping you would get better.
The insurance company is always looking for someone else to blame for your injuries, whether they say it’s pre-existing or caused by something after the accident.
If you don’t go to the doctor right away, document your symptoms, and treat as your doctors tell you to until you feel better, the insurance company is going to argue that the car accident wasn’t the cause of your injuries, and they won’t pay you for them.
Unless you receive a policy limits offer, you should never accept the first settlement offer. Insurance companies live by under-settling your claims. They want to pay you the least amount of money so that they can increase their profits.
That is why we always advise clients never to accept the first settlement offer, and talk with an attorney about your options and what steps to take next. You would be surprised how beneficial it is to hire an attorney and how they could increase that offer from what the insurance company has already presented you with.
Insurance companies offer fast money for one sneaky reason.
What do you do if, after a crash, the insurance company is all over it? They’ve got someone evaluating your motorcycle or car, they’re offering you a check, maybe $5,000, and they’re ready to pay you right now.
Why do you think they’re so eager to get this done so quickly? They want you to take it and sign away your rights before you have the opportunity to speak with a lawyer.
Don’t fall for that trick.
The biggest red flag from an insurance company:
– You’re not at fault for the accident, and the insurance company tries to blame you? Huge red flag.
– You were in a big accident, and the insurance company tries to get you to sign a document for a small amount of money? Huge red flag.
– You’re trying to make a claim, and the insurance company is giving you the runaround and delaying your claim? Huge red flag.
– Insurance company is trying to get you to sign a release immediately? Huge red flag.
– Insurance company is offering you pennies on the dollar? Huge red flag.
– Insurance adjuster is not returning your calls? Huge red flag.
– Insurance company isn’t answering the phone? Huge red flag.
– Insurance company telling you that you can resolve it with them, and you don’t need representation? Huge red flag.
– Insurance company telling you not to worry about it, and they’ll pay for your medical bills? Huge red flag.
– Insurance company telling you, “Oh, don’t worry about it, just take this money and if you need treatment later, call us back”? Huge red flag.
– Insurance company treating you like a number, not a human being? Huge red flag.
One of the most common questions we get from clients is, what is my case worth? And here’s how we break it down. There’s honestly no way to know what your case is worth at the very beginning. And I generally tell clients—any lawyer that’s giving you a concrete amount or telling you what your case is worth is lying to you. There are so many factors that go into the value of your case.
Those factors include:
Applicable insurance coverage:
– How much coverage is there?
– What are the policy limits?
– Does the person at fault have insurance coverage?
– Does the person at fault have assets?
– Do you have underinsured or uninsured motorist coverage?
That’s the beginning. What also goes into how much your case is worth would be your damages—so the question becomes, what are your injuries? What is it going to take to get you better? And what does your future look like?
Another thing that goes into how much your case is worth is whether or not you have lost wages, pain and suffering. There are so many factors, and there’s no way to know right away the value of your claim. It takes time.
If I am partially at fault for the accident, how does the percentage of fault get calculated? There’s no real formula. It’s really a back-and-forth argument between the insurance company and you or your attorney.
The more evidence your attorney can collect to place blame on the other driver, the less fault percentage will be placed on you. It’s really just kind of a battle.
The only way that fault percentage is truly calculated is if your case goes to trial, and a jury decides the percentage based on the evidence presented.
You were just in a truck accident. Who do you think is responsible for paying for your damages? The answer might surprise you. You might think that when you’re in an accident that the only person responsible for paying for your damages is the other driver.
In reality, there are a lot more options that we can look into for you. A lot of people can be responsible for your damages, whether that be:
– The driver
– Another passenger in the vehicle
– The owner of the vehicle, if it’s a different person from the driver
– A company that owns the vehicle
– Your insurance company, if you have the right insurance
– Maintenance workers
– Negligent HOAs
Really, there’s a whole list of possibilities for you, depending on your case, that you can recover money from.
Some people might think that we are just passive on cases. That’s all we do is wait for you to finish with the doctor’s appointments, then tell the insurance company you’re done treating, and get an offer for you. That is not the case at all.
A good personal injury attorney will hire experts to review everything. They’ll be in contact with:
The police department
Any witnesses
Any medical providers
The hospitals
The ambulances
Lawyers want to understand every detail of your case possible. And that does not come without lots of phone calls, lots of hard work, lots of emails, and lots of time. We research all the case law that’s available. We research the conditions of the road. We go to the scene of the accident. We go to the scene of the slip and fall and take pictures, ask people if they saw anything—all for you. You might think that we are only talking a little bit back and forth with the insurance company, but it is so much more than that.