Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers: Multimillion-Dollar Verdicts In Groundbreaking Cases

At Barney & Karamanis, LLP, our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights and guiding you through the legal process to secure the justice you deserve. For over 30 years, we have served the Chicagoland area, helping injured people recover millions in compensation.

What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including:

• Distracted driving: Texting, eating or otherwise not paying full attention to the road can easily lead a driver to overlook a motorcycle.
• Left-turn accidents: Many motorcycle accidents occur when a car turns in front of a motorcycle going the opposite direction. Drivers may misjudge the motorcyclist’s speed or not see them at all.
• Speeding: Driving at high speeds reduces a driver’s ability to react quickly to dangerous situations.
• Lane splitting: Riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic can be dangerous, especially in heavy traffic.
• Road hazards: Motorcycles are more vulnerable to road hazards such as potholes, debris, uneven pavement and slippery surfaces.
• Alcohol and drug use: The influence of alcohol or drugs can impact judgment and make it difficult for drivers and riders alike to operate their vehicle effectively and react to hazards.
• Inclement weather: Rain, snow or fog reduce visibility and make it difficult for motorcyclists to maintain control of their vehicle.

What Rights Do Motorcyclists Have After A Crash?

Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries, and it is essential for injured motorcyclists to understand their rights after a collision.

Illinois law does not require you to wear a helmet, but wearing one can affect your injury claim. Since the law does not require helmets, not wearing one doesn’t stop you from getting money for your injuries. However, not wearing a helmet could be seen as a form of negligence, which could impact the amount you receive if you suffer injuries that a helmet could have protected you from.

Illinois uses a system called modified comparative negligence. This means you can still get money for your injuries even if you were partly to blame for the crash, as long as you were not more than 50% at fault. However, the amount you receive will decrease based on how much your actions led to the crash. If you are 30% at fault, for example, you would get 30% less money.

Common Injuries And Damages:

Motorcycle accidents can lead to a variety of injuries due to the lack of protection compared to other vehicles. Here are some common injuries that motorcyclists may suffer in a crash:

• Road rash: Road rash occurs when a rider slides across the pavement, causing skin abrasions. While it might seem minor, severe road rash can lead to infections and require medical treatment.
• Fractures: Due to the impact and the nature of motorcycle accidents, riders often suffer from broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs, wrists and ribs.
• Head injuries: Injuries like concussions and traumatic brain injuries are serious concerns for motorcyclists.
• Spinal cord injuries: These injuries can result in life-altering consequences, including partial or complete paralysis.
• Internal injuries: Internal bleeding and organ damage may not be immediately apparent, but they often require prompt treatment.
• Soft tissue injuries: Injuries to muscles, ligaments and tendons can cause significant pain and limit mobility.

These physical injuries often come with significant physical and emotional pain.

A Personal Injury Lawsuit Can Help With Expenses After A Crash

After a motorcycle crash, injured riders may face significant physical, emotional and financial challenges. Filing a personal injury lawsuit can help them receive compensation for various damages. Some of the types of damages a motorcyclist might claim in a personal injury lawsuit:

• Medical expenses: A personal injury claim can include compensation for appointments, hospital stays, surgeries, medicine, physical therapy and any future expenses.
• Lost wages: If injuries from the crash prevent a motorcyclist from working, they may claim lost wages for the income lost during recovery and the long-term impact on their income if the injuries impact their future job prospects.
• Pain and suffering: Pain, anxiety, depression and other psychological impacts that affect the motorcyclist’s quality of life can be a factor in lawsuit damages.
• Property damage: Damages can cover repair or replacement costs for personal property like the motorcycle, helmet and riding gear.
• Loss of enjoyment in life: Injuries from a motorcycle crash can affect a person’s ability to enjoy activities and hobbies they once loved.
• Punitive damages: In some situations, the court may award damages to punish the person at fault for the crash.

Understanding the types of damages available can help injured motorcyclists seek the full compensation they deserve. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can provide guidance on navigating the legal process and maximizing the potential recovery from a lawsuit.

How Long Do You Have To File A Lawsuit?

In Illinois, motorcyclists who are injured in a crash generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit. Filing a lawsuit within this two-year window is essential. If you miss the deadline, you may lose the opportunity to pursue compensation. Even if you are negotiating with insurance companies, it is important to keep this deadline in mind to protect your rights.

Call Barney & Karamanis, LLP, For A No Cost Consultation

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Chicago, don’t face the legal challenges alone. Contact the personal injury attorneys at Barney & Karamanis, LLP, today for a consultation. Our proven track record in multimillion-dollar verdicts and settlements speaks for itself. Call us at 312-702-0872 or email our team to learn more about how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.