Pittsburgh Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Injured in a Motorcycle Crash? We Can Help.

When you've been injured in a motorcycle accident, choosing the right personal injury firm can make all the difference in the outcome of your claim. At Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C., our Pittsburgh motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to putting our clients first and fighting for the maximum compensation they deserve. Get more than four decades of experience on your side!

Get in touch with our firm today at (844) 383-0565 to discuss your options in a free and confidential consultation.

Overview of Motorcycle Laws in Pennsylvania

Understanding the legal landscape is vital for any rider. Pennsylvania has specific statutes that govern motorcycle operation and insurance:

• Helmet Laws: Pennsylvania law requires all riders under 21 to wear a helmet. Those over 21 may ride without a helmet if they have been licensed for at least two years or have completed an approved motorcycle safety course.
• Lane Splitting: Unlike some other states, lane splitting (driving between rows of stopped or moving traffic) is illegal in Pennsylvania.
• Insurance Requirements: Riders must carry liability insurance. However, Pennsylvania follows a "no-fault" system for medical benefits in car accidents, but motorcycles are often excluded from certain default coverages. This makes "Full Tort" vs. "Limited Tort" selections critical.
• Licensing: To legally operate a motorcycle in Pittsburgh, you must possess a Class M license.

Navigating these laws during a personal injury claim is complex. Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. stays up-to-date on all legislative changes to ensure your rights are protected.

Motorcycle Crash Hotspots in Pittsburgh

Certain roads and intersections in Pittsburgh are more prone to motorcycle accidents due to congestion, high speeds, and difficult driving conditions.

Common motorcycle crash hotspots in Pittsburgh include:

• Interstate 376 (Parkway East and Parkway West)
• Route 28
• Interstate 279
• Liberty Bridge and Liberty Tunnels
• Carson Street
• Forbes Avenue
• Fifth Avenue
• McKnight Road
• Downtown Pittsburgh intersections
• Busy areas near the Fort Pitt Bridge

Heavy traffic, sudden lane merges, construction zones, and distracted drivers make these areas particularly dangerous for motorcyclists.

Motorcycle accidents may also increase during Pittsburgh’s colder months when rain, snow, and icy roads create hazardous riding conditions.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Collisions

Sadly, most motorcycle accidents are entirely preventable. When other motorists fail to use necessary caution when driving near or around a motorcyclist, the consequences can be deadly.

Motorists often cause or contribute to motorcycle accidents by:

• Failing to use a turn signal
• Changing lanes without looking
• Coming to a stop quickly or abruptly
• Opening their door into a motorcyclist
• Miscalculating a left-hand turn
• Driving while under the influence
• Speeding or driving recklessly
• Driving while distracted

Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Like most vehicle accidents, you can suffer a wide range of injuries in a motorcycle accident. However, due to the fact you have much less protection than someone in a car or truck, you are more likely to be injured in an accident. Knowing what injuries you can sustain can help you watch for the warning signs in the unfortunate event you get into an accident. Here are some of the common injuries someone riding a motorcycle can suffer:

• Brain injuries
• Spine/back injuries
• Road rash
• Internal bleeding/organ damage
• Broken or fractured bones
• Neck injuries

What Types of Damages Can I Recover with a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Pittsburgh?

After being involved in a motorcycle collision, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. At Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C., we can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Here are some important factors to consider when seeking compensation for your motorcycle accident:

• Medical Expenses: You may be eligible to receive compensation for medical bills, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatment related to your injuries.
• Lost Wages: If your injuries have caused you to miss work or have resulted in a decreased earning capacity, you may be able to recover compensation for lost wages and future income.
• Pain & Suffering: Compensation may also be available for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish you have experienced as a result of the accident.
• Property Damage: If your motorcycle was damaged or totaled in the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement.
• Wrongful Death: In the tragic event that a loved one has lost their life in a motorcycle accident, certain family members may be eligible to seek compensation through a wrongful death claim.

Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Pittsburgh will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, and work tirelessly to build a strong claim on your behalf. We understand the complexities of motorcycle accident cases and will fight to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

You shouldn't have to pay the price for someone else's negligent driving. Call (844) 383-0565 to get a free case evaluation with Robert Peirce & Associates!

Proving Fault in a Motorcycle Accident: The Key in Pittsburgh Claims

It's no secret that bikers face a stigma of being rebels, driving recklessly without regard for others on the road. If you're a motorcyclist injured in an accident, the other driver's insurance will do everything they can to paint you in a negative light so that they can avoid paying out a large settlement. You need a team of aggressive legal advocates who can fight for the justice you deserve and the compensation you need to fully recover from your injuries.

Our Pittsburgh motorcycle accident attorneys utilize the following methods to prove who was at fault for your accident:

• Accident/police report
• Eyewitness testimony
• Accident reconstruction tools

Shared Fault in Motorcycle Accidents in Pittsburgh

Not all motorcycle accident cases are straightforward; sometimes both the driver and the motorcyclist share fault for the collision. Pennsylvania has a modified comparative fault rule for these exact situations.

Under comparative fault, the injured party can still recover compensation in an accident claim, even if they are found to be partially at fault for the accident. However, with Pennsylvania's modified comparative fault rule, the injured party can't be more than 50% at fault, or they will receive no compensation at all.

How does comparative fault work?

When a motorcycle accident case goes to trial, the jury will determine two things:

1. The amount of recovery to be awarded.
2. The amount of fault, by percent, that both parties share.

If the plaintiff (injury victim) is found to be 50% at fault or less, that amount will be deducted from the initial recovery. For example, if the jury awarded $50,000 to the plaintiff and they were found to be 10% at fault for the accident, the final recovery awarded to the plaintiff would be $45,000.

FAQs for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Pittsburgh

What Steps Should I Take Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident?

Ensuring safety and checking for injuries is the top priority after an accident. Move to a safe location if possible and call 911. Avoid discussing fault on the scene; instead, exchange contact details with involved parties. Take photographs of the scene and any visible injuries for documentation. Finally, consult a skilled motorcycle accident attorney like those at our firm to understand your rights and next legal steps.

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

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including motorcycle accidents, is typically two years from the accident date. Understanding and adhering to this timeline is crucial as failing to comply can lead to losing your right to compensation. Consulting with a personal injury attorney promptly ensures your claim is filed correctly and on time.

What if the Other Driver Was Uninsured?

Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can help recover damages when the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance. Reviewing your policy with an attorney ensures you explore all avenues for recovery. Legal guidance can provide strategies for collecting warranted compensation through alternate methods, potentially from your insurer.

How Does Weather Affect Motorcycle Accidents in Pittsburgh?

Pittsburgh's weather, marked by its wet springs and snowy winters, plays a significant role in road safety for motorcyclists. Wet roads can diminish traction, increase stopping distances, and obscure visibility. Precipitation and fog can compromise a motorcyclist's control and visibility, which is why understanding these conditions is vital. Employing defensive driving techniques and ensuring your motorcycle is equipped to handle these conditions can significantly mitigate accident risks.

Get Started with a Free Consultation Today

If you were injured in a motorcycle crash in Pittsburgh due to another driver's negligence, it is important that you understand all of your available options before making any decisions. It's free to discuss your case with one of our motorcycle accident attorneys in Pittsburgh, so don't wait to call. We're available 24/7.

Call our office at (844) 383-0565 or contact us online to discuss your motorcycle accident claim with our legal team.