Motorcycle Accident FAQ

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations—or time limit—to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of your accident. But there are exceptions to this rule, and building a strong claim on your behalf can take time. Speaking with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident can help ensure your legal rights are protected.

What are the motorcycle helmet laws in Virginia?

Virginia requires all riders and passengers to wear motorcycle helmets. You can find out more about riding legal on our Motorcycle Laws and Safety tips page.

What types of compensation can I receive after a motorcycle accident?

Depending on the facts of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for one or more types of damages, including:

  • Medical Treatment
    You can seek compensation for the care you need to get better, such as hospital bills, physical therapy, and future medical expenses.
  • Wage Loss
    A wage loss claim can help you cover the costs of time missed from work after your accident, as well as any future loss of earnings caused by your injuries.
  • Pain and Suffering
    From psychological trauma to the length of time it takes to recover from your injuries, the pain and suffering you’ve endured after your motorcycle accident can be factored into your settlement or award.
  • Loss of Consortium
    If your injuries leave you unable to maintain a healthy, loving relationship with your spouse, you and your spouse may be able to file a loss of consortium claim against the insurance company.
  • Property Damage
    Many motorcycles are total losses after serious accidents, and even minor motorcycle damage can cost thousands of dollars to fix. If someone else caused your accident, property damage compensation can help you repair or replace your bike.
  • Punitive Damages
    When someone else’s extreme recklessness or carelessness causes you to crash, you may be able to seek punitive damages. These damages are above and beyond those that compensate you for your injuries and are intended to deter the negligent party from repeating the same behavior again.

Calculating the exact amount required to cover these damages can be complex. Before you accept an insurance company’s lowball settlement offer, contact the Norfolk motorcycle accident lawyers at Lowell Stanley Injury Lawyers. We know the law, and we want to get you the maximum amount of compensation you deserve.

We serve injury victims throughout Virginia—including Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads, and Williamsburg—so don’t wait. Call (757) 459-CASH or complete our free online form to get started with your claim today.

How can a lawyer help me?

Insurance companies handle thousands of injury claims a day, and they often use underhanded tactics to take advantage of injury victims who are unfamiliar with the law. At Lowell Stanley, we have more than 30 years of experience helping Virginia injury victims, and you can count on our Norfolk motorcycle accident lawyers to:

  • Handle the Paperwork
    We’ll take care of time-sensitive insurance company paperwork and legal documents, so you can focus on getting better instead of filling out forms.
  • Investigate your Accident
    From taking photographs of the accident scene to gathering witness statements, we’ll work hard to gather evidence to help prove who or what caused your crash.
  • Negotiate With the Insurance Company
    We’ll examine all of the ways your injuries have affected your life and help ensure you get the compensation you need to move forward with life after your accident.

Should I accept the insurance company’s settlement offer?

No. Insurance companies are businesses, and they keep profits up by paying fractions of what claims are worth. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can review the facts of your case and help determine the full value of your claim.

I’m an uninsured motorcyclist. Can I still sue?

Maybe. If the party responsible for your crash carried valid insurance coverage, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Before you give up on filing a claim, contact Lowell Stanley. Your case evaluation is free, and you won’t owe us any attorney fees unless we win your case.

Where can I learn more about motorcycle safety in Virginia?

A variety of resources can help you understand Virginia motorcycle accident trends and prevention, including:

  • Virginia Rider Training Program
    Learn about the motorcycle safety training programs available in your area.
  • Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles
    Find maps, charts, and tables with data from motorcycle accidents across the Commonwealth of Virginia along with safety tips.
  • Virginia Department of Transportation
    Discover traffic accident information, recommended maintenance schedules, and other safety tips for state roads and highways throughout Virginia.