Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Newport News, VA

A motorcycle accident lawyer in Newport News, Virginia understands how difficult it can be to move on after an accident. Motorcycle accidents can cause some of the most severe injuries, and they are often life-changing. Whether you ride a motorcycle or have been struck by a motorcyclist, a lawyer can prepare your case and guide you through the claims process. Find out about your legal options now to learn about the facts of your case and ways you can obtain compensation.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer In Newport News, VA

When you need a dependable and qualified motorcycle accident lawyer, you can turn to a lawyer from Waterman Law Centers. With over four decades of practice experience, they have the knowledge and skills that enable them to deliver the best possible results for their clients. No matter your needs, they are driven to provide quality legal services. Don’t hesitate to seek the legal help you need and deserve, or you can lose your chance of securing excellent legal representation. Schedule a consultation with us now to learn about our services.

Accident Scenario Examples That A Lawyer Handles

Riding a motorcycle is often riskier than driving a vehicle like a car or truck, because of the high speeds a motorcycle can reach, limited protective barriers and exposure to elements. A motorcycle lawyer from Waterman Law Centers handles many sorts of accidents, such as:

  • Head-on collisions
  • Rear-end collisions
  • T-bone accidents
  • Sideswipe collisions
  • Left turn accidents
  • Lane splitting
  • Speeding
  • Hazards

Unfortunately, most motorcycle accidents are due to distracted driving or reckless driving. If negligence played a role in the accident that caused your injury, a lawyer will gather the evidence and information necessary to prove it. They will assemble a case that shows that an individual’s negligent actions directly led to your injury, causing you harm.

Common Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents

The high rate of speed and lack of protection make motorcycle accidents especially damaging, often resulting in severe injuries. When victims are hit by a motorcycle, it is usually at a high speed. The force of the impact can shatter bones and result in extensive tissue damage, or even death. Motorcyclists also suffer from major injuries, because motorcycles offer minimal protection. Some of the most common injuries from motorcycle accidents include:

  • Bruising and scarring
  • Head injuries
  • Brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Road Rash
  • Nerve damage
  • Fractures
  • Broken bones
  • Disfigurement
  • Temporary or permanent disabilities

Collecting Damages From Motorcycle Accidents

The loss in a motorcycle accident case can be significant for the victim and their family. Similarly, in other types of litigation, damages incurred as a result of a motorcycle accident injury may include medical expenses, loss of income, and out-of-pocket expenses. However, they may also include significant non-economic damage, such as pain and suffering, loss of joy of life, mental distress, permanent disability, disfigurement, and loss of consortia.

The plaintiff who complains of negligence must prove the defendant’s obligations to the plaintiff, the defendant’s breach of those obligations, the actual and proximate causes, and damages. If any of these factors are missing, the defendant can successfully defend against the plaintiff’s proceedings. However, a plaintiff who has suffered damage in a motorcycle accident who can prove the defendant’s negligence may recover all compensatory damages necessary to make the defendant “whole”.

The compensatory damages may be either “economic” or “noneconomic.” Economic damages are physical, more tangible damages that can be quantified, and the value of these damages does not change depending on the jury evaluating them.

Economic Damages

  • Past and future medical expenses
  • Past and future lost wages
  • Household services
  • Vocational rehabilitation
  • Out-of-pocket expenses
  • Lost earning capacity
  • Medical expenses may also be included under economic damages. These damages are bills that arise out of the injuries that are caused by the accident.

Non-Economic Damages

  • Pain
  • Emotional anguish
  • Loss of enjoyment of activities
  • Worsening of prior injuries

Some states refer to noneconomic damages as pain and suffering. In addition to the person who sustained the economic damages, a spouse may be able to recover a type of non-economic damage referred to as “loss of consortium”. In the event of a wrongful death or inability to seek legal assistance, a spouse can also be the one to seek legal counsel and fight for compensation for motorcycle accident injury or damages. It is our goal to serve as your advocate, and fight for you in court to hold those who are responsible for your injury and damages accountable.

As a motorcycle accident lawyer Newport News, VA residents have entrusted with the responsibility of getting deserved compensation, we are well prepared to represent you in court. Our firm has a reputation for achieving the desired results in court; we will fight for you and help ensure that the responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.

We will work closely with the involved parties to develop an effective strategy for collecting both economic and non-economic damages owed to you following a motorcycle accident. We sympathize with the unique situation of each client and understand that the needs of each case are unique.

Contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer Newport News, VA residents trust today, and begin taking steps towards regaining a sense of normalcy in your life. Contact Waterman Law Centers today to learn more about our services. We are ready to consult with you and offer suggestions about viable courses of action for your unique situation.

Five Things Not To Do After A Motorcycle Accident

Don't Wait To See If Someone Else Is Calling 911

It’s better to be one of a dozen 911 callers after your motorcycle accident than to be among nobody calling. As soon as it’s safely possible for you to do so, call 911. If you’re unable to due to injury or inability to reach your phone, ask someone else specifically to call 911; don’t yell, “Somebody call 911!” Instead, look at one person in particular and ask, “Please call 911,” as that will get a more desirable reaction.

Don't Move Anyone Who May Have Been Seriously Hurt, Including Yourself

Motorcyclists who are involved in collisions are at a much higher risk for injury, since they’re not protected by a metal cage. Some don’t even wear protective gear such as a helmet, leather jacket, non-slip gloves or the right shoes. Any time you suspect someone may have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you shouldn’t move that person, including yourself. If someone does move you, causing your injuries to worsen, your Waterman Law Centers, PLLC motorcycle accident lawyer in Newport News, VA, may be able to add them to your personal injury claim.

Don't Let The Other Driver Bribe You Not To Contact The Insurance Company

The other driver involved in the accident may try to beg or bribe you not to contact your insurance company. He might even offer you cash on the spot. Don’t do it. You couldn’t possibly know the extent of your injuries, due to the adrenaline coursing through your veins. You may also be in shock, which can mask pain signals as well as the adrenaline does. Politely decline his offer, and remember to mention it to your motorcycle accident lawyer in Newport News, VA.

Don't Forget To Get The Police Report Number So You Can Get A Copy Later

A police report may be invaluable for a Waterman Law Centers, PLLC motorcycle accident lawyer in Newport News, VA. It can show the damage to both vehicles, where the vehicles landed, where you were at the time the police officer was doing the accident scene drawing.

Don't Neglect To Get The Other Driver's Contact And Insurance Information

Even though it’s going to be in the police report, you want to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. Don’t take or accept any blame for the accident, and don’t say any variant of “I’m sorry.” It could come back to bite you when your motorcycle accident lawyer in Newport News, VA, goes to negotiate your settlement with the other driver’s insurance company.

Legal Assistance If Available

If you need help after suffering an injury due to a motorcycle accident, our team will be here to guide you. Every client deserves to have proper legal counsel, and we are dedicated to providing for you. After going through a traumatic accident, you should not have to deal with the hassle of figuring out how to navigate a sophisticated legal case. Allow a skilled lawyer to handle the work for you and help you obtain the compensation you need. Reach out to the Waterman Law Centers and learn how you can receive assistance from a motorcycle accident lawyer Newport News, VA area.

Why Is A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer is Needed?

Motorcycle accidents are usually more severe than car accidents. Motorcycles lack the same protective features as cars, such as seatbelts, airbags, and steel frames around the vehicle. When a motorcycle accident occurs, it is likely that one or both parties were operating their vehicles improperly.

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to seek the help of a motorcycle accident lawyer in Newport News, VA. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you file a claim and get the compensation you deserve.

The Waterman Law Centers, PLLC has years of experience helping people who have been injured in motorcycle accidents. We know what to do to get you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Why Hire The Waterman Law Centers, PLLC As Your Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents can be incredibly serious, and if you’re not sure where to turn after being injured, it’s important to get started on finding the right legal representation as soon as possible.

The Waterman Law Centers, PLLC are experts in motorcycle accident law. We have motorcycle accident lawyers in Newport News, VA that have successfully represented clients in many types of cases and know what it takes to win your case and get you the compensation you deserve.

You Have Someone Who Can Represent Your Best Interests

After a motorcycle accident, an attorney can help make sure that you get compensation for your injuries. This is especially important if you were hit by another vehicle or if you were hurt at an intersection.

In these cases, the driver who was at fault may have insurance, and an attorney can help investigate to see what kind of coverage they have. The insurance company will likely try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge about the legal system to pay out less than what you deserve, but a motorcycle accident lawyer in Newport News, VA will stand up for your rights and fight for full compensation.

Hiring the Waterman Law Centers, PLLC as your motorcycle accident lawyer is the best decision you can make. We have over 25 years of experience helping people just like you get the compensation they deserve for their injuries. We will handle all the paperwork and negotiations with the insurance company so you can focus on healing.

Attorney Motorcycle Accident Claim Experience

A motorcycle accident lawyer in Newport News, VA generally has more experience with this type of personal injury case and with the insurance companies that adjust them. This experience can prove invaluable as your case progresses.

At the Waterman Law Centers, PLLC we believe that no one should have their life turned upside down due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness on the roadways. Our team of motorcycle lawyers has extensive experience representing people just like you who were injured or lost loved ones due to someone else’s careless actions while driving a car or riding a motorcycle on roads and highways.

Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Newport News, VA at the Waterman Law Centers, PLLC are experienced in handling all types of motorcycle accident claims, including those involving injuries caused by defective parts or equipment failure. If we believe there is evidence that the motorcycle itself was unreasonably dangerous or defective, we will make sure that this information comes to light during your case as well.

What Should I Do After A Motorcycle Accident?

If you have been in an accident then a motorcycle accident lawyer Newport News should suggest you do the following right after an accident:

  • Immediately obtain medical treatment. Motorcycle accidents rarely do not involved injuries of some sort. Your well-being is the most important to you and your family, so you should seek medical attention immediately.
  • Document the accident. If you are able you should document everything about the accident. If you are unable to do so today enlist a family member or lawyer to collect information about the accident using photos. They should also record the date, time, and weather conditions when the accident took place.

What Compensation Can I Recover After An Accident?

If you have been injured or if you had a passenger that was injured you may be able to recover compensation for:

  • Past and future medical expenses that relate to the accident
  • Loss of income
  • Diminished earning capacity
  • Physical pain and suffering
  • Physical impairment
  • Wrongful death damages
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Punitive damages
  • Physical disfigurement
  • Psychological damages

A lawyer can help you discover what you might be able to get compensation from if you are unsure. They can also help you gather all the evidence you need to show that you deserve compensation for your injuries.

What If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?

This is going to greatly depend on your individual situation and what state you live in. Different states have different laws about who is required to wear a helmet. This means that if you have the proper insurance and have passed the safety course then you can still file to recover compensation after an accident even if you weren’t wearing a helmet depending on your state.

However, if you do not meet the helmet exception requirements you still may be able to recover compensation. If you are not at fault for the accident and the other driver was clearly negligent then you still have the right to file a claim.

What Do I Need I Need For A Wrongful Death Claim?

Filing a wrongful death claim is never an easy task. A Newport News motorcycle accident lawyer can help you with everything you need to do in order to file a claim. In order to file a wrongful death claim you must:

  • Be the executor of the deceases state, the spouse, parent, or child of the deceased
  • Proof that negligence led to the death of your loved one
  • Provide evidence that the family suffered damages from the death

This is often not an easy task as you are often still reeling with grief. An unexpected death is never an easy thing and that is where a lawyer can help. They can help ensure they have all the right paperwork and evidence to prove that you deserve compensation for wrongful death.

What Is The Statue of Limitations?

The statute of limitations for a personal injury case in Virginia is two years. This means a person must file a lawsuit or settle their claim against the wrongdoer’s insurance company within two years of the date of the accident. A mistake that many people make is that they do not file a claim before the two years are up. You must file or study or claim within the two years of the date of the accident and not on the second anniversary. If you have any more questions then reach out to a Newport News motorcycle accident lawyer from Waterman Law Centers, PLLC.