Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in York, PA

Representing Injured Riders in York, Pennsylvania & Beyond

In a traffic crash, motorcyclists are at a significant risk of injury. In fact, motorcyclists are 22 times more likely to die in traffic accidents than occupants of passenger vehicles. Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC has helped hundreds of injured riders recover the compensation they deserve. We have won tens of millions of dollars for our clients to help them rebuild their lives. If you have been injured, don’t hesitate to call our motorcycle accident attorneys in York. Our team can guide you through this difficult process to seek the best possible result for your case: a settlement or award that will help you face a stable, bright future.

Contact our York, PA motorcycle accident attorneys: (717) 775-6983. We are available 24/7!

Motorcyclists Are at Risk of Suffering Catastrophic Injuries

Motorcyclists are continually overrepresented in traffic accident statistics, accounting for 15% of all traffic fatalities in 2022, even though motorcycles accounted for only 3% of registered vehicles in the United States that same year. Motorcycles don’t protect riders, making them vulnerable in the event of an accident. Even when a rider is wearing a helmet (which is not required in Pennsylvania for riders over the age of 21 who have been licensed for at least 2 years or have completed an approved safety course), they may experience life-altering injuries in a crash. This is true even in what could be considered “minor” traffic accidents.

A motorcycle accident may cause such injuries as:

Even though the stakes of riding a motorcycle are life-threatening, riders are not always the cause of accidents—it’s often drivers. Drivers who are distracted or simply not looking for motorcyclists may open the door to their parked car into a motorcyclist's path, turn left directly in front of a motorcycle, or engage in other dangerous behavior that puts riders at risk. When this happens, our motorcycle accident lawyers in York are here to help injured riders and their families set things right again.

What Is the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in York?

Motorcycle accidents can occur for a variety of reasons, but distracted driving is one of the most common. Distracted driving claims more than 3,450 lives every year. “Distracted driving” includes any activity that diverts attention from driving safety. Texting and driving is one of the most dangerous forms of distractions on the road because reading or sending a text message takes a driver’s eyes off the road for 5 seconds; at 55 mph, that is like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed.

In addition to distracted driving, impaired driving remains a very serious issue. Whether due to alcohol or drugs, impaired drivers are a significant threat to motorcyclists. Speeding, too, is a leading cause of accidents, reducing the driver's ability to steer, extend braking distances, and increasing the severity of the crash impacts. Weather conditions, such as slick roads or reduced visibility due to fog, can exacerbate these dangers, calling for increased caution and responsibility from all motorists.

Other careless driving mistakes include:

• Failing to stop before turning right on red
• Running a stop sign or red light
• Driving distracted while texting, eating, or talking
• Failing to yield the right of way for motorcycles
• Exceeding the speed limit
• Failing to check for motorcycles during lane changes

Motorcyclists also face hazards other drivers don't. Poor weather conditions, such as rain or fog, can significantly impair visibility, making it harder for motorcyclists to safely maneuver and making it difficult for drivers to see motorcyclists. Additionally, road defects, such as potholes, debris, or uneven pavement, pose a greater threat to motorcycles compared to larger vehicles.

Who Is Liable for Motorcycle Accidents in York, PA?

After a motorcycle accident, you may wonder who can be held accountable. In fact, this is one of the key parts of recovering fair compensation after an incident of this kind. The driver (or other party) that caused the accident should be responsible for paying for your medical care and other losses or expenses.

In some cases, more than one party may be held liable. For instance, a motorcyclist may be forced to swerve to avoid a pothole on an unmaintained city street just as a distracted driver changes lanes into the one the motorcyclist has moved into. In this case, both the government entity responsible for roadway maintenance and the distracted driver could share liability for the crash. 

The following parties may be liable for motorcycle accidents:

• Motorists who are distracted, careless, or violate traffic laws
• Manufacturers of defective motorcycle or automobile parts
• Government entities that fail to properly maintain roads
• Bar or restaurant owners who overserve customers who then drive drunk

A thorough investigation into the circumstances leading up to your motorcycle accident can reveal its cause. At times, more than one factor may be to blame. Heavy fog, for instance, could be a contributing factor, as well as a motorist who was driving too fast for current weather conditions. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in York, Pennsylvania, have the resources and know-how to effectively determine cause and liability.

Seek the Fair Motorcycle Accident Compensation You Deserve

Rebuilding your life in the aftermath of a motorcycle crash can seem nearly impossible. As the medical bills pile up, you may be unable to work and pay your bills. In the midst of all this, you may have trouble getting a fair settlement from the insurance company, which may do everything in its power to try to delay your payment or underpay your claim. A skilled York motorcycle accident lawyer can help you seek a fair result.

Our York motorcycle accident firm helps riders and families seek compensation for:

• Repairing or replacing the motorcycle
• Medical expenses, including ongoing care
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Emotional trauma, including pain and suffering
• Lost earnings, including loss of future/potential wages and benefits

Understanding the scope of your damages is essential. Compensation may encompass more than just initial medical expenses. Long-term rehabilitation, specialized medical equipment, home modifications, and the physical and emotional pain and suffering you have gone through are all factors that may influence your recovery.

Maximizing your recovery is the best way to ensure you have the means to put the pieces of your life back together. Our firm is here to do just that.

Get a Free Consultation with Our York Motorcycle Injury Lawyers

If you have been injured by a negligent driver, you have the right to seek compensation for the damages they caused. You shouldn’t have to bear the burden of medical bills and treatments for an accident that was caused by another driver’s reckless behavior. Our experienced York motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help you seek the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and explore your legal options. With a proven track record of helping thousands of accident victims, our firm has secured victories against some of the largest insurers and companies in the country.

Contact us for a free consultation at (717) 775-6983. We are ready to defend your rights!

Pennsylvania Motorcycle Laws

In Pennsylvania, not all motorcyclists are required to wear helmets. Riders over 21 who have had their motorcycle license for at least two years or who have passed an approved safety course can ride without a helmet. However, it is important to note that opting for helmets can significantly reduce the number of severe injuries in the event of an accident. 

Another key requirement is that all motorcyclists in Pennsylvania must carry at least the minimum required insurance coverage to operate legally on public roads. This includes liability insurance that covers bodily injury and property damage.

In addition to helmet and insurance laws, motorcyclists in Pennsylvania should also be aware of lane splitting regulations. Lane splitting, or the act of riding between lanes of stopped or slow-moving cars, is illegal in Pennsylvania. Motorcyclists are required to adhere to the same traffic laws as other vehicles, including speed limits and traffic signals. 

York Motorcycle Accident FAQ

What Steps Should I Take Immediately Following a Motorcycle Accident?

Immediately after a motorcycle accident, your first priority should be your safety and health. If you are able to do so, move to a safe location away from oncoming traffic. Call emergency services to report the accident and seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent, and getting a professional assessment can be crucial for your health and any potential legal claims you may pursue later on.

Once you are safe, gather as much information as possible at the scene. Take pictures of the accident location, your motorcycle, any other vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Make notes of the road conditions and any witnesses available, along with their contact information. This information can be invaluable when you file an insurance claim or if you decide to seek legal representation. You should also exchange insurance and contact information with all parties involved. Do not discuss fault or apologize at the scene, as these statements can be misconstrued and potentially used against you later. Contacting a York motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible can help you understand your legal rights and next steps.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Motorcycle Accident?

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, including those resulting from a motorcycle accident, is generally two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this period may result in losing your right to pursue any claims. However, there are exceptions and nuances that may affect your timeline, such as if the accident involved a government vehicle or entity, which might have different requirements. Consulting with an attorney immediately following your accident is the best way to ensure compliance with all filing deadlines and to discuss any possible exceptions that might apply to your situation.

Can I Still Recover Compensation if I Was Partially at Fault?

Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule when it comes to determining compensation in injury cases. This means that you can still recover compensation for your injuries even if you were partially at fault for the motorcycle accident, as long as your level of fault does not exceed 50%. Note that your compensation would be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault and your damages amount to $100,000, your compensation would be reduced by 20%, allowing you to recover $80,000. 

What Types of Compensation Can I Pursue After a Motorcycle Accident?

After a motorcycle accident, victims may be eligible for several types of compensation to cover various damages. Economic damages typically include medical expenses, such as emergency care, hospital stays, and ongoing rehabilitation costs. You may also seek compensation for lost wages if your injuries prevent you from returning to work for any length of time. In cases where the injuries result in long-term disabilities, loss of future earning capacity may also be compensable.

Additionally, non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life due to the injuries sustained. Although these damages are more subjective, making them harder to calculate in many instances, experienced legal counsel can gather evidence and expert testimony to substantiate these claims. 

In rare cases, punitive damages may also be available. Also known as exemplary damages, punitive damages are typically only available in cases involving particularly reckless or malicious behavior. 

How Do I Choose the Right Motorcycle Accident Attorney in York?

Choosing the right motorcycle accident attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Look for an attorney with a proven track record in personal injury law, specifically cases involving motorcycle accidents. It's beneficial to choose a firm like Handler, Henning & Rosenberg LLC with a history of recovering sizeable settlements and judgments for its clients. This proves that the firm knows how to handle these types of cases and won't just accept the first settlement offered. 

Additionally, consider the level of personalized attention and communication you'll receive. A responsive legal team can keep you updated on your case's progress and respond promptly to any queries or concerns. Reviews and testimonials can provide insights into other clients' experiences with the firm.