Waukegan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Many people in Illinois ride motorcycles on a regular basis. For some people, it is their primary form of transportation. For others, riding a motorcycle is an enjoyable activity reserved only for the weekends. No matter how often people ride a motorcycle—and no matter how many safety precautions they take—there is always the potential for an accident.
Motorcycles do not have seatbelts or protective coverings, and they are often lighter, smaller, and harder to see than other vehicles. The only thing between riders and the road is their clothing and helmet. This means motorcycle accident injuries can be catastrophic or fatal.
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident, contact a Waukegan motorcycle accident lawyer who will fight zealously to get you the compensation you deserve. A skilled and compassionate accident attorney can help you pursue your claim right away.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Despite stereotypes, most motorcyclists are not driving dangerously for a thrill. In reality, most motorcyclists drive defensively and carefully. Accidents are often caused by other drivers who fail to see the motorcycle, make turns without looking, or drive aggressively to avoid, race past, or get around a motorcycle.
As a result, motorcycle accidents in Waukegan commonly happen when other drivers:
- Hit a motorcycle at an intersection
- Crash into the back-end of a stopped motorcycle
- Pull out of a parking lot or side street
- Pass another vehicle
- Make left turns or change lanes without checking their blind spot
- Drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Lastly, go above the speed limit
Role of an Attorney
Many motorcyclists mistakenly think that insurance will cover all of their expenses if injured in an accident. However, insurance companies review every claim carefully and raise every issue possible to reduce the amount paid. They may offer a low amount of money to settle the case immediately after the accident with the hope that the claimant will accept the low-ball offer before they contact an attorney.
Although an early settlement offer may seem tempting, it is important to realize that injuries may only become apparent days after the accident, and may get much worse if left untreated. Accepting a settlement offer from the insurance company without fully understanding the extent of the injuries and treatment needed, and without the assistance of a lawyer, often results in an injured motorcyclist receiving much less than what they are legally entitled to.
While riders are recovering from the trauma of the accident, a qualified Waukegan motorcycle accident lawyer can help by:
- Ensuring a fair settlement offer that will cover all medical expenses.
- Investigating the details of the case.
- Reconstructing the accident scene.
- Gathering evidence to prove that the other driver’s responsibility.
- Also, reviewing legal documents.
- Handling important paperwork.
- Meeting all deadlines.
- Lastly, preparing clients after a lawsuit.
Working with a Waukegan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Working with a motorcycle accident attorney in Waukegan from the very beginning is a great way to ensure that your rights are protected and that you are not short-changed by large insurance companies.
Your priority is recovering from your injuries, and an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer’s priority is getting you the compensation you and your family deserve. Contact a Waukegan accident attorney today to find out how they can help you.