Pittsburgh Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Injured in a Motorcycle Crash? We Can Help.

Injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident can have serious and lasting consequences. Even at relatively low speeds, motorcyclists face the potential for catastrophic injury. You don't have to be a reckless biker to be injured or killed in a motorcycle accident. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation estimates that motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to be killed on a motorcycle than while driving other vehicles.

At Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C., our Pittsburgh motorcycle accident attorneys bring extensive experience and an unwavering commitment to every claim we handle. 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

Pennsylvania enforces a set of laws that motorcycle riders must follow to ensure safety and compliance on the road. These regulations cover licensing, helmet use, equipment standards, insurance requirements, and traffic rules. Understanding and adhering to these laws can help riders avoid penalties and reduce the likelihood of accidents.

Motorcycle Licensing Requirements

To operate a motorcycle legally in Pennsylvania, riders must obtain a Class M license or add a motorcycle endorsement to their existing driver’s license. The process begins by applying for a motorcycle learner’s permit, which is available to individuals aged 16 or older. To qualify, applicants must pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test on motorcycle safety and traffic laws. The permit is valid for one year and comes with restrictions, including a prohibition on riding at night, carrying passengers, and a mandatory helmet requirement regardless of the rider’s age.

After gaining experience with the learner’s permit, riders must complete a skills test at a PennDOT Driver’s License Center or complete the Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP) Basic Rider Course (BRC), which waives the need for a skills test. Upon successful completion, the rider receives a Class M license, granting full motorcycle operating privileges.

Helmet Laws in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania follows a partial helmet law that applies differently depending on the rider’s age and experience. Riders under the age of 21 are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet at all times while operating a motorcycle. Additionally, any rider with a motorcycle learner’s permit, regardless of age, must wear a helmet.

For riders who are 21 years or older, helmet use is optional if they meet one of two conditions: they have been licensed to operate a motorcycle for at least two years, or they have completed an approved motorcycle safety course. Helmets used by Pennsylvania riders must comply with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards and bear the DOT certification label to ensure they meet safety requirements.

Motorcycle Equipment Requirements

To be street-legal in Pennsylvania, motorcycles must meet certain equipment standards. All motorcycles are required to have functioning headlights and taillights, with the headlights remaining on whenever the motorcycle is in operation. At least one rearview mirror is required to provide the rider with a clear view of traffic behind them. Additionally, motorcycles must be equipped with fully operational front and rear brakes.

Pennsylvania law also mandates that motorcycles have an exhaust system that meets noise and emission standards. Turn signals and a functional horn are required for communication and safety. Compliance with these equipment standards helps ensure that motorcycles are safe for both the rider and other road users.

Lane Splitting and Lane Sharing

Lane splitting, where a motorcycle maneuvers between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic, is illegal in Pennsylvania. This practice is considered unsafe and can lead to citations or accidents. However, lane sharing is permitted, allowing two motorcycles to ride side by side in a single lane. While lane sharing can enhance rider safety by increasing visibility, no more than two motorcycles are allowed to share a lane simultaneously.

Insurance Requirements for Motorcycles

Pennsylvania law requires all motorcycle operators to carry minimum liability insurance coverage to protect themselves and others in the event of an accident. The required coverage includes:

• Bodily Injury Liability: Minimum coverage of $15,000 per person and $30,000 per accident.
• Property Damage Liability: Minimum coverage of $5,000 per accident.

Although uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is optional, it is highly recommended for riders. This additional coverage provides financial protection if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance to cover damages.

Penalties for Violating Motorcycle Laws

Non-compliance with Pennsylvania’s motorcycle laws can result in severe penalties. Riders who violate helmet laws, operate without the required insurance, or fail to meet equipment and registration requirements may face fines, points on their license, or even suspension of their driving privileges. Repeated violations can lead to increased insurance premiums and additional consequences.

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

If you or someone you love was injured in a motorcycle collision in Pittsburgh caused by another negligent driver, you have rights. Call Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C. to learn how a motorcycle accident attorney can help.

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

Seeking Maximum Compensation for Your Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Handling the challenge of a serious injury or the unimaginable pain of losing a loved one is a significant issue; you have enough to worry about without dealing with stubborn insurance providers and the fear of not having the money to cover mounting medical expenses and bills.

We work to secure a full and fair settlement, whether your case involves:

• Wrongful death
• Traumatic brain injury
• Spinal cord injury
• Fractures and broken bones
• Partial or total paralysis

At Robert Peirce & Associates, P.C., we work to level the playing field by putting our experience behind the fight for your rights. We know that you are facing hospital costs, long-term medical expenses, mounting bills, lost wages, and a host of financial challenges. Our Pittsburgh motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help you find solutions to even the most challenging of circumstances.

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.

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.

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!

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.

Why Choose Our Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Pittsburgh?

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., we are dedicated to putting our clients first and fighting for the maximum compensation they deserve.

Here's why you should choose us:

• Experience: Our Pittsburgh motorcycle accident lawyers have years of experience handling these claims. We have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding motorcycle accidents and know how to navigate the legal system to achieve the best possible outcome for our clients.
• Proven Track Record: We have a proven track record of success in obtaining substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our attorneys have the skills, knowledge, and resources to build a strong claim on your behalf and fight for the compensation you deserve.
• Personalized Attention: We understand that every motorcycle accident case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your story and understand your specific needs and goals. We provide personalized attention and tailor our legal strategies to fit your individual circumstances.
• Compassionate Representation: We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a motorcycle accident can take on your life. Our team is committed to providing compassionate and supportive representation throughout the entire legal process. We will be by your side every step of the way, fighting for your rights and advocating for your best interests.
• Free Consultation: We offer a free consultation to discuss your motorcycle accident case and provide you with an honest assessment of your legal options. This allows you to get to know us, ask any questions you may have, and make an informed decision about moving forward with your case.

Don't wait to seek the compensation you deserve for your motorcycle accident injuries. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and let us fight for your rights.

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.