Albuquerque Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Albuquerque Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Riding a motorcycle can be a fun experience. However, it can also be a risky endeavor. Motorcycle riders are inherently at a greater risk of severe injury on the road than other drivers, as they do not have the same protections that cars do. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, it is crucial to seek the compensation you deserve for your recovery. An Albuquerque motorcycle accident lawyer can help you do so. For personalized legal assistance, consider consulting with an experienced personal injury lawyer in Albuquerque who can guide you through your claim.

At Youngers Law, PA, I am dedicated to using my knowledge and experience to help you and your family receive the compensation you may be entitled to. Motorcycle accidents can have lasting impacts. I treat our clients as if they were part of my own family. I put our clients first and work with them to navigate these difficult circumstances.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

A motorcycle accident can be caused by several reasons. Some of these reasons include:

• Driver error. Some motorcycle accidents are caused by the cyclist’s own errors, negligence, or reckless driving, such as speeding, running red lights, lane splitting, or ignoring traffic laws and signs. In New Mexico, these types of accidents are especially common due to unique road conditions and traffic patterns.
• Road hazards. Motorcycles are more affected by road hazards than cars. A simple pothole can cause a motorcyclist to lose control of their bike, while the same pothole can barely be noticed by a car. Motorcyclists should take extra precautions when driving to avoid road hazards. You can refer to resources that provide up-to-date information on local infrastructure issues, such as the Federal Highway Administration for insights on road safety improvements across the state.
• Inclement weather. Weather conditions such as rain and fog can cause roads to be slippery and visibility to be diminished.

Motorcycle Accident Claims

When a person is in a motorcycle accident, they may be able to file a claim for their injuries. To do this, they will need to know the value of their claim. Several factors are considered when valuing a claim. These considerations include:

• Injuries. Typically speaking, the more severe a person’s injuries, the higher the claim amount will be. When someone suffers injuries, they require medical attention, which can come with medical bills, lost wages from having to miss work, and any pain and suffering endured.
• Insurance. When valuing an amount to file a claim, insurance caps will be considered. Sometimes, the at-fault driver’s insurance places a cap on how much can be claimed in a settlement.
• Liability. In cases where the other party was clearly (and totally) at fault, this can strengthen your case and potentially result in a higher settlement. If you were deemed partially at fault, your settlement amount may be reduced by the amount of fault you possess.

New Mexico adheres to comparative negligence. Comparative negligence is in place when both parties share blame for the accident. This could happen if a car hit you because they ran a red light, but you were speeding, so the court can say you are partly to blame. In this case, if the court says you are 20% responsible, your claim amount will be reduced by 20%. So, if you made a claim for $10,000, you would be awarded $8,000. Additionally, being aware of motorcycle safety laws in New Mexico can play a significant role in determining fault and liability, which ultimately impacts the value of your claim.

What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident

If you have been in a motorcycle accident in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the first thing you want to do is seek medical attention right away if you are severely injured. If you are not, move your motorcycle to the side of the road if you can prevent additional injuries or property damage. Check on other drivers to make sure that they are not in need of medical attention.

Contact law enforcement to report the accident. They can create an official report, and this can be helpful if you decide to file a claim later. Be sure to document the scene, including videos and photographs of any damage or injuries. You can also gather eyewitness statements and collect their contact information if they are willing to make a statement later, if necessary.

Get the contact information from the other driver(s), including their name, phone number, make and model of vehicle, driver’s license number, and license plate number.

Once you are free to leave, you will still want to see a medical professional. Even if you do not have any immediate pain or obvious injury, you will want to seek medical attention. You may have internal injuries that you are unaware of.

Hire an attorney to assist you with the upcoming legal process. An attorney can help you negotiate with insurance companies and file a personal injury claim if necessary. Attorneys can investigate, look at the evidence, seek fair compensation, and represent you in court.

FAQs About Motorcycle Accident Law in Albuquerque,NM

How Much Are Most Motorcycle Accident Settlements?

The extent of property damage, the degree of responsibility, and the severity of the injuries can all have a significant impact on motorcycle accident settlements. The final price is influenced by several factors, including pain and suffering, insurance coverage, medical costs, and lost income. The potential payout increases with the severity of the injuries and the degree of the other party’s negligence.

Should I Get a Lawyer for a Motorcycle Accident?

After a motorcycle accident, it can be helpful to hire a lawyer, particularly if there are serious injuries or disagreements over who is at fault. A lawyer can assist with evidence collection, insurance company negotiations, and making sure you get fair compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.

How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Settlement Take?

The intricacy of the case, the insurance companies’ cooperation, and the extent of injuries all affect how long a motorcycle accident settlement takes. Settlements can often be reached in a short time, but more complex cases, especially those requiring going to court, may take much longer. An attorney can look at the facts of your case and give you a projection on how long it may take.

What Not to Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

Avoid making statements that could be construed incorrectly or acknowledging fault after an accident. Wait for authorities to come before leaving the scene, and do not accept quick settlement offers from insurance companies without first speaking with an attorney. Your case may suffer if you neglect to adequately document the accident or put off getting medical help.

Albuquerque Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Being in a motorcycle accident can be difficult. Trying to heal while also navigating the legal terrain can be taxing. These accidents can have devastating repercussions for you and your family. While our firm can’t change what happened, our team can help hold those responsible accountable. Youngers Law, PA, can help you through this process. Contact me today to get started.