Motorcycle Accident
by actuate | September 25th, 2025
A motorcycle accident can turn your world upside down in seconds. Between mounting medical bills, dealing with insurance adjusters, and trying to recover from your injuries, the last thing you want is another complicated decision. But here’s the reality – hiring a motorcycle accident attorney isn’t just helpful, it’s often the difference between getting fair compensation and settling for far less than you deserve.
The Harsh Reality of Motorcycle Accidents
The statistics tell a sobering story. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are28 times more likely to diein crashes compared to passengers in cars. But even when you survive, the financial impact can be devastating.
Motorcycle accident victims face average medical expenses of$3,083.54and hospital stays averaging 5.3 days. For severe injuries requiring ongoing treatment, these numbers climb much higher. When you add lost wages, property damage, and long-term care needs, the financial burden becomes overwhelming.
If you’re wonderingwhat steps to take nextafter your accident, your first priority should always be getting medical attention. Once you’ve addressed immediate health concerns, consulting with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney becomes crucial.
When Should You Call a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?
You might be asking yourself, “Do I really need a lawyer for this?” The answer depends on several factors, but here are clear signs you need legal representation:
If you’ve suffered serious injuries– Head injuries, broken bones, spinal damage, or any injury requiring hospitalization means you’re facing significant medical costs and potential long-term complications.
When the insurance company is pressuring you– Adjusters often contact accident victims within hours, hoping to secure a quick, low settlement before you understand the full extent of your damages.
If fault is being disputed– Insurance companies frequently blame motorcyclists, claiming they were speeding, not visible, or driving recklessly. This bias can dramatically reduce your compensation.
When multiple parties are involved– Multi-vehicle accidents create complex liability situations that require legal expertise to navigate properly.
How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Protects You
Fighting Insurance Company Bias
Here’s something many accident victims don’t realize – motorcycle bias is real. Insurance companies often assume riders are inherently reckless, automatically reducing claim values. An experienced attorney knows these tactics and fights back with evidence, expert testimony, and legal precedent to present your case fairly.
Calculating True Compensation Value
What seems like a generous settlement offer might actually be far below what you deserve. A skilled attorney evaluates all damages including current medical bills, future medical care, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and property damage. They ensure nothing gets overlooked.
Handling Complex Legal Procedures
Personal injury law involves strict deadlines, complex paperwork, and detailed legal procedures. Missing a single deadline or filing incorrect documents can destroy your case. Your attorney handles all legal requirements while you focus on recovery.
Building a Strong Case
Determining fault in a motorcycle accident isn’t always straightforward. Attorneys work with accident reconstruction experts, analyze police reports, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to build the strongest possible case for maximum compensation.
What to Look for in the Right Attorney
Not all personal injury lawyers understand motorcycle accidents. When choosing representation, consider these essential factors:
Specific motorcycle accident experience– Look for attorneys who regularly handle motorcycle cases and understand the unique challenges riders face.
Clear communication and accessibility– You should feel like a priority, not just another file. Your attorney should keep you informed throughout the process and be available to answer questions.
Proven track record– Don’t hesitate to ask about past results. How often do they secure substantial settlements for clients with similar injuries?
No upfront costs– Reputable motorcycle accident attorneys work on contingency, meaning you pay nothing unless they win your case.
Addressing Your Concerns About Hiring an Attorney
Maybe you’re thinking, “I can barely afford groceries, let alone a lawyer.” Remember, most motorcycle accident attorneys work on contingency – you don’t pay unless they win. Many also offer free consultations, so getting legal advice costs nothing upfront.
Perhaps you’re wondering, “Can’t I just handle this myself and save money?” While this might seem logical, personal injury law is incredibly complex. Without proper representation, you could end up with a settlement that doesn’t cover your actual damages – or no compensation at all.
Are you worried about going to court? Most motorcycle accident cases settle out of court. But if your case does require litigation, having an experienced attorney representing you gives you the best chance of success.
Concerned about how long the process will take? While every case is different, having skilled representation often speeds up the process. Most settlements are reached within a few months to a year, depending on case complexity.
Your Next Step Toward Recovery
A motorcycle accident can derail your life, but you don’t have to navigate the legal aftermath alone. The right attorney becomes your advocate, fighting for fair compensation while you focus on healing.
At Lowell “The Hammer” Stanley, we understand the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face. We offer free case evaluations so you can understand your options without any financial obligation. Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of your situation – get the legal representation you deserve.
Get Your Free Case Evaluation
by actuate | September 19th, 2025
Your bike is totaled. Your shoulder’s screaming in pain. And now some insurance adjuster is telling you the crash was your fault because “motorcycles are dangerous.”
Sound familiar? In my 40+ years hammering insurance companies in Virginia, I’ve heard this story too many times. When they try to nail you with blame after you’ve been hurt, I nail them back harder – that’s why they call me The Hammer.
Here’s what I want you to know: You have the same rights on Virginia roads as any car driver. When someone violates those rights, I pound them until they pay.
Should I Talk to Insurance Companies After a Motorcycle Accident?
Absolutely not – at least not alone. This is the biggest mistake I see riders make every week.
Insurance adjusters will contact you while you’re still in pain at Sentara Norfolk General, hoping to get admissions they can hammer you with later. They’ll ask seemingly innocent questions like “How fast were you going?” or “Did you see the car before impact?”
Every answer becomes a weapon against you. Instead, tell them: “My attorney will be in touch.” Then call The Hammer at (757) 461-5555.
I’ll handle all communication with insurance companies while you focus on getting better. No games, no tricks, no gotcha questions while you’re on pain medication.
What Happens if Insurance Claims I Was Partially at Fault?
This is where Virginia’s harsh blame rules can hammer your case into the ground. If the other driver pins even 1% of fault on you, you lose your entire claim. Zero recovery.
That’s why I shut down blame-shifting tactics from day one. After handling thousands of motorcycle cases in Hampton Roads, I know exactly how insurance companies try to nail riders with partial fault:
- Speed claims: “The motorcycle was going too fast” (even when you were doing the speed limit)
- Visibility arguments: “He should have seen the car turning” (ignoring the car’s duty to yield)
- Lane position: “The bike was riding the line” (you have full lane privileges under Virginia law)
When insurance companies try these tactics, I hammer back with accident reconstruction, witness testimony, and Virginia traffic laws that protect motorcyclists’ rights.
How Much Does a Virginia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Cost?
Nothing upfront. You don’t pay unless I win your case.
This is called contingency fee representation – I only get paid when I hammer out a settlement or verdict for you. That means I’m invested in getting you maximum compensation because my fee depends on your recovery.
Most riders worry they can’t afford a lawyer, especially after medical bills start piling up. But you can’t afford NOT to have The Hammer fighting for you when insurance companies are already strategizing to minimize your claim.
Virginia Law Protects Motorcyclists – I Make Sure It’s Enforced
Virginia’s motorcycle laws are clear, but insurance companies ignore them until someone makes them pay attention:
Full Lane Rights: You’re entitled to the entire lane. Car drivers who squeeze you toward the shoulder are breaking the law, and I hammer them for it.
Helmet Requirements: Virginia requires helmets, which actually helps your case by proving you were riding responsibly.
Left-Turn Liability: When cars make left turns in front of motorcycles, Virginia law puts the burden on the turning driver to yield safely.
The problem isn’t the law – it’s enforcement. Insurance companies count on you not knowing your rights. I’ve been pounding these legal principles into insurance adjusters’ heads for four decades.
Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen in Hampton Roads?
I see the same dangerous patterns every week:
Colonial Parkway and Virginia Beach Oceanfront: Tourist drivers gawking at scenery, pedestrians stepping into traffic, car doors opening without warning. When they drift into your lane or make sudden stops, I nail them for distracted driving.
I-264 and Bridge-Tunnel Areas: Lane-change accidents when car drivers check mirrors but never shoulder-check, plus rear-end collisions when traffic suddenly stops. When they squeeze you into the median or tailgate, that’s their negligence – and I pound them for it.
What Should I Do Right After a Motorcycle Crash?
Right Now: Get medical attention, even if you think you’re fine. Adrenaline masks injuries that hammer you days later.
Today: Take photos of everything – your bike, their car, the road, your protective gear. Don’t admit fault to anyone, not even “I’m sorry this happened.”
This Week: Call me at (757) 461-5555 before you talk to any insurance companies.
Never: Sign anything or give recorded statements without The Hammer reviewing it first.
I’ll handle everything else. That’s what I do – I take the legal sledgehammer to insurance company tactics so you can focus on healing.
How Do I Prove the Car Driver Was at Fault?
This is where 40+ years of experience pays off. I nail down liability using witness statements, police reports (challenging any officer bias), accident reconstruction experts for serious cases, and traffic camera footage before it gets deleted.
The key is moving fast while evidence is fresh. Insurance companies will try to claim you were speeding, should have seen the car turning, or were riding improperly. I hammer back with Virginia traffic laws that give motorcycles full lane rights and put the burden on turning drivers to yield safely.
What Makes Motorcycle Accident Cases Different?
Motorcyclists face prejudice that car accident victims don’t deal with. Juries sometimes think “reckless daredevil” when they hear “motorcycle.” Insurance companies exploit this bias ruthlessly.
My job is hammering that prejudice into dust. You’re not a daredevil – you’re the guy who rides to the shipyard every day to save gas money for your family. You’re the veteran who finds peace on weekend rides to the Outer Banks. You’re someone who took the safety course because you wanted to be extra careful.
I make sure juries see who you really are: a responsible person whose rights were violated by a careless car driver.
How Long Will My Motorcycle Accident Case Take?
Honest answer: it depends on how hard the insurance company wants to fight.
Simple cases with clear liability and cooperative insurance companies might settle in 3-6 months. Complex cases with multiple vehicles, serious injuries, or stubborn insurance companies can take 1-2 years.
But here’s what I promise: I’ll hammer away at your case every single day until we get results. No case sits on my desk gathering dust while you’re struggling with medical bills.
The timeline often comes down to this – do they want to settle reasonably, or do they want The Hammer to pound them in court? Most choose to settle once they realize I’m not backing down.
The Bottom Line: You Need The Hammer in Your Corner
You didn’t choose to ride a motorcycle to make life easy. You ride because it’s freedom. When some careless driver tries to steal that freedom, they need to pay for your medical bills, bike repairs, and the attempt to take away what matters most to you.
When insurance companies see The Hammer on your case, they know they’re in for a fight. Because I am The Hammer, and they are the nails.
Don’t wait. Don’t talk to insurance companies first. Call me now: (757) 461-5555.
The consultation is free, you don’t pay unless I win, and I’ll start hammering your case immediately.
by actuate | September 5th, 2025
The electric bike craze has hit Portsmouth hard, and so have the accidents. I’ve been handling bicycle and eBike injury cases in Hampton Roads for over four decades, and I’m seeing more serious eBike crashes than ever before on Portsmouth’s busy streets. When a 2,000-pound car hits someone on a 50-pound eBike, the physics are brutal.
If you’ve been hurt in an eBike accident in Portsmouth, you’re dealing with more than just road rash and bent wheels. Medical bills from Naval Medical Center Portsmouth or Bon Secours Maryview are piling up. You might be missing work while trying to heal from broken bones, head injuries, or worse. The insurance companies are already circling, trying to pay you pennies on the dollar.
That’s where I come in. I am The Hammer, and insurance companies know what that means.
Portsmouth’s eBike Accident Problem is Getting Worse
Portsmouth’s mix of narrow residential streets and busy commercial corridors creates perfect conditions for eBike disasters. I’ve handled cases on High Street where distracted drivers plow into cyclists, and accidents near the Portsmouth Naval Medical Center where drivers simply don’t see eBikes in traffic. The Elizabeth River Trail sees its share of crashes too, especially where it crosses busy intersections.
Here’s what makes eBike accidents different from regular bicycle crashes: these bikes are faster, heavier, and often ridden by people who aren’t experienced cyclists. A traditional bike might hit 15 mph on flat ground. An eBike can easily reach 28 mph, and some go faster. When something goes wrong at those speeds, the injuries are catastrophic.
After representing thousands of injured cyclists in Virginia, I’ve seen the devastating pattern. Driver opens a car door without looking – cyclist goes flying. Texting driver runs a red light – eBike rider ends up in the ICU. Right turn without checking mirrors – another family gets that terrible phone call from Portsmouth General Hospital.
Virginia Law Protects eBike Riders, But Insurance Companies Don’t
Virginia treats eBikes the same as traditional bicycles under most traffic laws, which means you have the same rights to the road as any vehicle. Drivers are supposed to give you at least three feet of clearance when passing. They’re supposed to yield when turning across bike lanes. They’re supposed to check their mirrors before opening doors.
Of course, knowing your rights and getting insurance companies to respect them are two completely different things.
I’ve spent 40 years fighting insurance adjusters who think eBike riders are somehow asking for trouble just by being on the road. They’ll claim you were going too fast, that you should have worn different gear, that the accident was “unavoidable.” They’ll try to blame Virginia’s contributory negligence law, hoping you don’t know that even if you made a minor mistake, their driver’s negligence can still make them fully responsible for your damages.
State Farm, Geico, Progressive – I’ve taken them all on in Portsmouth courts and won. They know The Hammer doesn’t back down from a fight.
Real eBike Injuries Require Serious Legal Representation
The eBike accident cases I handle in Portsmouth aren’t fender benders. These are life-changing collisions that leave families struggling to cope with massive medical expenses and lost income.
Head injuries are common because many eBike riders don’t wear helmets, or their helmets aren’t designed for the higher speeds these bikes can reach. I’ve represented clients with traumatic brain injuries who needed months of rehabilitation at Sentara Norfolk General. The medical bills alone can reach six figures before you even think about lost wages or pain and suffering.
Broken bones are another constant. Arms, legs, ribs, collarbones – when you hit pavement at 25 mph, something’s going to break. The orthopedic surgeons at Portsmouth Naval Medical Center do excellent work, but excellent work is expensive, and recovery takes time. Time you can’t work. Time your family suffers financially.
Road rash might sound minor, but severe cases require skin grafts and leave permanent scarring. I’ve seen eBike riders need multiple surgeries just to restore basic function to damaged limbs.
Then there are the psychological injuries that insurance companies love to ignore. Many of my eBike accident clients develop anxiety about riding or even being around traffic. Some can’t sleep because they keep reliving the crash. These are real injuries with real impacts on your life, and Virginia law recognizes your right to compensation for emotional trauma.
How The Hammer Handles Portsmouth eBike Cases
When you call my office after an eBike accident in Portsmouth, we spring into action immediately. The insurance company is already working against you – they had investigators on the scene before the ambulance left. We need to level the playing field fast.
First, we secure the crash scene evidence before it disappears. Skid marks fade, security camera footage gets deleted, witnesses forget details. I work with accident reconstruction experts who can piece together exactly what happened, even weeks after the crash.
We also get your medical treatment documented properly from day one. The emergency room at Naval Medical Center might have stabilized you, but we need to make sure every injury is properly diagnosed and that your treatment plan addresses long-term complications. Insurance companies love to argue that injuries weren’t caused by the accident if they show up later in your recovery.
While you focus on healing, I focus on building your case. That means gathering police reports, interviewing witnesses, consulting with medical experts, and dealing with insurance adjusters who are trained to minimize your claim. I speak their language because I’ve been fighting them for four decades.
Portsmouth Drivers Need to Start Paying Attention
The explosion of eBikes on Portsmouth streets means drivers need to adjust their habits, but many haven’t gotten the message. They’re still looking for traditional bicycles moving at traditional speeds. When an eBike appears in their peripheral vision moving 20-something mph, they don’t have time to react.
Portsmouth city officials are trying to help by adding bike lanes and improving intersections, but infrastructure changes take years. In the meantime, eBike riders are getting hurt every week, and someone needs to hold negligent drivers accountable.
That’s exactly what I do. When drivers choose to text instead of watch the road, when they roll through stop signs, when they make turns without checking their mirrors, they need to face consequences. The only language they understand is money, and I speak that language fluently.
Your eBike Accident Case Won’t Cost You a Dime Upfront
I know what you’re thinking – you can barely afford your medical bills, how are you going to pay a lawyer? Here’s the deal: I work on contingency for all eBike accident cases. That means you don’t pay me unless I win your case. When I get you a settlement or jury verdict, I take my fee from that. If I don’t win, you don’t owe me anything.
The insurance company will never offer you what your case is truly worth. They’re hoping you’ll take their first lowball offer and go away. Don’t let them get away with it. I’ve recovered millions for injured cyclists in Hampton Roads, and I know exactly what Portsmouth eBike accident cases are worth.
Call The Hammer Before You Talk to Any Insurance Company
Every day you wait makes your case harder to win. Evidence disappears, witnesses move away, and insurance companies use delay tactics to pressure you into a cheap settlement. Don’t give them that advantage.
I’ve been fighting for injured people in Portsmouth and across Virginia for more than 40 years. I know the local courts, the judges, the defense lawyers, and most importantly, I know how to win. Whether your accident happened on High Street, near the Naval Medical Center, or anywhere else in Portsmouth, I’m ready to take on the insurance companies and make them pay what you deserve.
Call me right now at (757) 461-5555. The consultation is free, and I’ll tell you exactly what your eBike accident case is worth. The insurance company has lawyers working against you from day one. You need The Hammer working for you just as hard.
Don’t let them turn your eBike accident into their payday. Call (757) 461-5555 and let’s get started.
by actuate | June 26th, 2025
Riding a motorcycle offers an unparalleled sense of freedom on the open road. Picture the wind in your face and the thrill of driving through winding roads. This freedom comes with a higher risk of motorcycle accident injuries since motorcycles offer little to no protection during a crash.
The National Safety Council reports a concerning 38% increase in motorcycle fatalities over the past decade. In 2023, the number of deaths reached 6,335, with a fatality rate of 31.39 per 100 million vehicle miles traveled.
What are the most serious injuries you can get in a motorcycle accident? The severity ranges from surface-level road rash to life-threatening brain trauma. Understanding these potential injuries helps riders make informed safety decisions and recognize when immediate medical attention is necessary.
Important Legal Notice: In Virginia, you have only two years from your accident date to file a personal injury claim. Don’t wait—contact a lawyer early to protect your rights.
What Are the Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
1. Head and Brain Injuries
Head trauma ranks among the most severe motorcycle accident injuries. Brain injuries (TBIs) range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, often resulting in long-term or permanent disability. Even with helmets, motorcyclists remain at risk.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that helmets can cut the risk of death by 22% to 42% and reduce brain injuries by 41% to 69%. The CDC identifies motor vehicle crashes as one of the leading causes of brain injuries.
2. Spinal and Back Injuries
Motorcycle crashes commonly result in spinal injuries, which can cause partial or complete paralysis. Back injuries from direct impact can fracture or dislocate vertebrae. Herniated discs—when the cushioning between spine bones slips out of place—cause severe pain and limited movement.
Medical costs vary dramatically based on injury severity—minor injuries requiring physical therapy might cost $5,000-$15,000, while severe injuries requiring surgery and lifetime care can exceed $1,000,000. These figures don’t include ongoing rehabilitation, adaptive equipment, and lost income.
3. Fractures
Fractures rank among the most common motorcycle accident injuries since arms, legs, and ribs are exposed during crashes. Riders instinctively extend their arms to break falls, increasing the likelihood of wrist, arm, leg, collarbone and rib fractures.
4. Neck Injuries
The violent jerking motion during crashes causes neck strains, sprains, and tears from sudden impact forces.
5. Road Rash
Road rash occurs when skin scrapes against pavement, causing abrasions from minor scrapes to deep tissue damage. Severe cases require skin grafts and create permanent scarring or nerve damage.
Wearing protective clothing like leather or specially designed riding gear significantly reduces road rash risk.
6. Internal Injuries
Crash impact can cause life-threatening internal organ damage and bleeding that isn’t immediately visible. Seeing a doctor right after an accident is crucial, even when you feel okay.
7. Muscle Injuries
Strains and sprains are common in arms and legs, ranging from minor bruises to severe muscle damage requiring surgery to repair torn muscles or tendons.
8. Emotional and Psychological Trauma
Beyond physical motorcycle accident injuries, crashes can lead to psychological impacts like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, or anxiety. Therapy and counseling are as important as treating physical injuries for full recovery.
How Can You Protect Yourself as a Rider?
While you can’t always prevent motorcycle accident injuries, taking these precautions can reduce your risk:
- Wear the Right Gear: Invest in durable helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots that provide protection
- Follow Traffic Laws: Obey speed limits and traffic signals
- Stay Visible: Use reflective gear and keep your headlights on, especially at night or in bad weather
- Ride Defensively: Assume other drivers may not see you and maintain a safe distance from vehicles
- Stay Sober and Alert: Never ride under the influence or when fatigued
Why Legal and Medical Support Matters
Recovering from motorcycle accident injuries isn’t just about medical care. Many victims face financial challenges like medical bills, therapy, rehabilitation costs, and lost income. While you may have insurance coverage, insurance companies commonly try to minimize their payouts.
That’s the business of insurance—these companies operate to make a profit, not to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve. This is why working with a personal injury lawyer becomes important.
Personal injury lawyers can negotiate with insurance companies to help you get maximum compensation. With experience in these situations, they know how to navigate the legal system to fight for your rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident? Seek medical attention even if you feel fine, as some injuries like internal bleeding aren’t immediately apparent. Document the scene, get contact information from witnesses, and contact law enforcement to file a report.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Virginia? Virginia has a two-year statute of limitations for most personal injury cases. This deadline is strict—missing it typically means losing your right to compensation entirely.
Can I still recover compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet? Yes, you may still be entitled to compensation. While not wearing a helmet might affect your case, it doesn’t automatically prevent you from recovering damages for your injuries.
What types of compensation can I receive for motorcycle accident injuries? You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and future medical costs related to your injuries.
For victims of motorcycle accident injuries in Virginia, you may consult with us at Lowell “The Hammer” Stanley. We provide free consultations to discuss your case and offer our expertise in handling motorcycle accident injury cases. You can also call us at (757) 459-CASH.
Remember, ride safe and stay protected!
by actuate | March 12th, 2025
After a motorcycle accident, taking the proper steps immediately can protect your health, legal rights, and financial future. Although motorcycles make up only 3% of all registered vehicles and 0.7% of all vehicle miles traveled in the U.S., motorcyclists accounted for 14.6% of all traffic fatalitiesand 3.5% of all injuries in 2022. Knowing what to do can make all the difference in your recovery and compensation, whether the crash is minor or severe. In this guide, we’ll walk you through each critical step to ensure you handle the situation effectively.
Prioritize Safety First
After a motorcycle accident, your first priority should be ensuring your safety and preventing further harm. If you can, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid additional collisions. Turn on your hazard lights, use reflective gear or flares if available, and make yourself as visible as possible. If you’re seriously injured, avoid moving and wait for emergency responders to assist you.
Call Emergency Services
After a motorbike accident, call 911 immediately. Even if the injuries appear minor, law enforcement and medical personnel should be notified. A police report is an important document in insurance claims and legal matters since it provides an official account of the accident. When communicating with authorities, be honest and stick to the truth, as false statements may complicate your case later.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Obtaining medical attention should be the main priority following any type of injury. Many injuries, such as concussions, internal bleeding, and soft tissue damage, may not be immediately apparent but might develop with time. A medical evaluation guarantees that you receive correct care and provides paperwork to support any future claims. Keep any medical documents, doctor’s notes, and receipts for your injury.
Gather Evidence at The Scene
Collecting as much evidence as possible can help your argument. If you are physically capable, capture photos and videos of the accident scene, including:
- The damage to all vehicles involved
- Road conditions, skid marks, and traffic signals
- Any visible injuries
- License plates and identification details of the other drivers
Additionally, obtain contact information from witnesses who can provide statements. Their testimony may be valuable if there are disputes about what happened.
Avoid Admitting Fault
After a motorcycle accident, refrain from saying anything that could be regarded as admitting fault. Even a simple apology may be used against you in insurance claims or legal proceedings. When communicating with other drivers, police officers, and insurance adjusters, keep your statements accurate and allow the investigation to decide culpability.
Notify Your Insurance Company Promptly
After a motorcycle accident, contacting your insurance company as soon as possible is crucial. Provide correct information, but be cautious about what you say, as insurance adjusters may hunt for ways to lower or deny your claim. Avoid making recorded remarks or accepting fast settlement offers until you realize the full scope of your losses. If required, contact with an attorney before beginning insurance discussions.
Consult a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Legal representationcan help you navigate the complexities of personal injury claims. A skilled attorney can:
- Assess the full value of your case
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Gather additional evidence, such as surveillance footage and expert testimony
- Represent you in court if necessary
Many motorcycle accident attorneys offer free consultations, making it worthwhile to discuss your case and explore your options.
Keep Detailed Records and Documentation
After a motorcycle accident, maintaining thorough records can significantly impact the outcome of your claim. Keep copies of:
- Medical bills and treatment records
- Repair estimates and receipts for motorcycle damage
- Proof of lost wages if you’re unable to work
- A personal injury journal detailing your pain levels, emotional distress, and recovery progress
Having organized documentation strengthens your case when negotiating settlements or presenting your claim in court.
Understand Your Legal Rights and Compensation Options
After a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
Each state has its own set of regulations governing fault, insurance, and the filing of claims. Speaking with an attorney early guarantees that you satisfy all legal deadlines and maximize your compensation.
What You Do After A Motorcycle Accident
The steps you take immediately after a motorcycle accident can have lasting effects on your health and financial well-being. Prioritizing safety, receiving medical attention, gathering proof, and calling an attorney can all help you get the money and assistance you need. Being prepared and knowledgeable allows you to make the best decisions in difficult situations, letting you concentrate on your recovery and getting back on the road safely.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait to protect your rights. Contact our experienced legal teamtoday for a free consultation and get the support you need to move forward.
by actuate | September 12th, 2022
Unlike being a passenger in a car, truck, or SUV, being a passenger on a motorcycle is an active experience. It requires you to hold on to the driver or bike itself tightly, to lean during turns, and to brace for acceleration and braking. In addition to being a much more demanding role, it’s also a much more dangerous role. Just like motorcycle drivers, motorcycle passengers are often severely injured in crashes.
If you or someone you love was recently injured while riding as a passenger on someone else’s motorcycle, it’s important to review all of your options for getting compensation. Your medical bills may be significant, and you may be facing weeks or months out of work while you recover. Filing a compensation claim can help you get the money you need to move forward with your life, and as an injured passenger, you may have multiple sources of compensation.
If another driver hit you, you may be able to sue him or her for your accident-related expenses. If the operator of the motorcycle you were riding on was negligent and caused the crash, you may be able to get compensation through his or her insurance. And if both another driver AND the driver of the motorcycle were negligent, you may be able to sue both.
The Virginia motorcycle accident lawyers at Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers have decades of experience handling motorcycle crash claims, and we want to help you, too. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options.
by actuate | July 18th, 2022
When people see motorcyclists on the road, they often have preconceived notions about them. Some drivers see motorcyclists and assume that they’re daredevils who put themselves and others in danger. Sadly, many insurance adjusters make that same assumption when they see motorcyclists—and that’s reflected in the way they treat their claims after accidents.
It’s incredibly common for motorcyclists to have their claims reduced or denied for no reason other than the insurance adjusters think they’re partially or fully at fault for their accidents. No matter how much evidence shows otherwise, biased adjusters often refuse to pay injured riders fair compensation, and that means thousands of innocent people end up paying for their crash-related expenses out of pocket.
At Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers, we’ve helped many injured riders get the money they’re owed, and we know how to stay one step ahead of biased insurance adjusters. We know that facts and evidence aren’t always enough to get them to do the right thing, and that’s why we count on our aggressive approach to force uncooperative insurers to pay our clients every penny they deserve.
After a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault, don’t count on getting a fair shake from the insurance company—including your own insurer. Instead, count on the experienced Virginia motorcycle accident lawyers at Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers to help you win your claim.
We’re available to speak with you about what happened 24/7, and our consultations are always free. Contact us today.
by actuate | April 4th, 2022
Although the popular image of motorcyclists paints them as being fiercely independent and strong, the reality is that they are very vulnerable on the road and after accidents.
When motorcyclists are involved in crashes, they are much more likely to be injured than people in cars, trucks, and SUVs. And when those same motorcyclists seek compensation for their damages, they’re also more likely to be denied or lowballed by the insurance companies.
At Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers, we believe that motorcyclists should do everything in their power to protect themselves both before and after accidents. That includes:
- Always wearing full safety gear on every ride, no matter how short it is or what type of road you’ll be traveling on
- Riding with the expectation that other drivers don’t see you and never assuming they do
- Being especially cautious when encountering drivers who are turning left, which is one of the biggest risk factors for crashes
- Never accepting the insurance company’s settlement offer after a crash without speaking to a lawyer first
- Calling a lawyer right away after an accident to begin protecting your rights to full compensation
Unfortunately, just as almost all drivers will eventually be involved in an accident, so too will almost all motorcyclists. In fact, there’s a common saying that breaks down motorcyclists into two groups: those who have had accidents and those who will.
If you or someone you love gets hurt on a motorcycle because of someone else’s negligence, we want to help. Contact our Virginia motorcycle accident lawyers today for a free consultation to find out how we can help you get maximum compensation.
by actuate | February 14th, 2022
There’s a common image of motorcyclists being speed demons and adrenaline junkies. And while those labels may accurately describe some riders, they certainly don’t describe all. Unfortunately, motorcyclists tend to get lumped in together, and after crashes, it’s common for police, other drivers, and insurance companies to assume that riders were at fault.
In Virginia, that can be a double whammy. First, Virginia uses a contributory negligence system for awarding compensation after crashes. It means that people who are assigned even 1% of fault are ineligible for compensation. And second, insurance companies are extremely reluctant to give motorcyclists compensation even when they were following all traffic laws to a “tee.”
As a rider, you must do everything in your power to not give the insurance company any wiggle room to deny you compensation. That means not only avoiding legitimate fault for a crash—even 1% of it—but also not even giving them room to make up their own idea of fault.
You can achieve this by never speeding, always signaling before turning or changing lanes, coming to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights, and never following vehicles too closely, just to name a few. Unfortunately, safe riding can’t always prevent crashes, and when they occur, riders frequently find themselves in uphill battles for compensation.
The Virginia motorcycle accident lawyers at know the unique challenges riders face after crashes, and we’re here to help if you get hurt in a crash that wasn’t your fault. Contact Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation.
by actuate | November 22nd, 2021
If you’re hurt in a motorcycle crash, the only thing protecting you is the equipment you’re wearing. Even the best helmets and riding gear can only do so much to reduce the severity of your injuries when you’re thrown from your bike. And the injuries you suffer aren’t just painful and disabling, but they’re also expensive.
For many motorcycle accident victims, getting compensation after their crashes is their top priority after receiving medical care. Insurance companies know that, and they take full advantage of it. A common cost-saving measure is for them to contact victims in the days or weeks after their accidents and offer them settlements for their medical bills and lost wages.
Because many victims need money right away, they may jump at the chance to obtain a big lump-sum payment that can replace their lost wages, begin paying down their medical bills, and help them afford their day-to-day expenses. But reality sets in once their full prognosis is revealed, which includes how much treatment they’ll need and how long they’ll be out of work.
Compensation after an accident or injury is a one-shot opportunity. After you’ve accepted a settlement, you’re locked out of pursuing more money down the road. That’s why it’s so important to have an experienced law firm on your side right away—especially if the insurance company is offering you a settlement.
At Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers, our Virginia motorcycle accident attorneys can review any offer you receive to determine if it’s enough money for you and your family. If it isn’t, we’ll work hard to ensure you get fair compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.
