Over 60 Years Of Combined Experience

Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The consequences of a motorcycle accident can be a catastrophe for both the rider and their loved ones.

If you are facing the effects of a crash in Montana, a motorcycle accident attorney can help you collect the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

The legal firm of Tipp Coburn Lockwood, P.C., in Missoula, can fight for you during this difficult time.

Collecting Compensation After A Motorcycle Accident

Because motorcycles lack the protective barriers offered by cars, motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries and significant medical bills. The legal firm of Tipp Coburn Lockwood has served the community of Missoula or over 60 years. We understand how difficult the aftermath of this type of incident can be and can assemble a strong case for you as you navigate the complexities of a motor vehicle accident lawsuit. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our office online or call us at 406-389-4215 today to begin building your case.

Increased Risk

Because they are more exposed to their environment than other motor vehicle operators, motorcyclists face unique risks on the road. The most common danger is the inattention of fellow drivers. As smaller visual targets, motorcyclists are easily obscured from view by other vehicles or road and weather conditions. Because they do not have a metal framework to protect them, a collision is often significantly more dangerous to motorcyclists than other drivers.

Furthermore, road hazards that are minor for a car can become life-threatening for a motorcycle rider. Possible obstacles include:

  • Potholes
  • Oil slicks
  • Puddles
  • Debris
  • Ruts or uneven pavement
  • Railroad tracks

While speed “wobble” accidents are also fairly common at high-speeds, they are usually the result of manufacturer error and are thus bettered suited as product liability lawsuits. Whichever specific realm your case falls into, however, our team can help you build a strong case for compensation.

Effects Of Motorcycle Accidents

Due to the nature of the vehicle, motorcycle accidents can produce devastating effects. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimated that in 2015, the number of motorcycle deaths was nearly 29 times the number for cars per mile traveled. An untimely death can have a devastating emotional and financial impact on the victim’s family for years to come. Catastrophic injuries, such as head trauma or spinal cord injury, can also leave motorcyclists with long-term disability and lasting medical expenses.

Seeking Compensation In Montana

Whether your accident was caused by another individual’s negligence or product defects, you may be entitled to compensation. The team at Tipp Coburn Lockwood, P.C., can help you collect damages for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Future loss of earning potential
  • Reduced quality of life
  • Property damage

In some cases, victims of motorcycle accidents can also pursue compensatory awards for the pain and suffering experienced as a result of the incident.

However, the state of Montana is governed by comparative fault laws. These laws dictate that those people seeking compensation must prove they were less than 50% at fault for the accident or they cannot recover any damages. The court will determine what percentage of fault you hold, which affects the monetary compensation you receive.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents

It is important to stay informed of your legal rights after a motorcycle accident. Our attorneys at Tipp Coburn Lockwood, P.C., can help you by answering any questions you may have about your accident. Here is a collection of frequently asked questions:

What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents?

The biggest cause of motorcycle accidents is other drivers. A driver’s negligent or reckless actions can endanger motorcyclists. Some common causes include:

  • Speeding
  • Left-turn accidents
  • Drunk driving
  • Distracted driving
  • Unsafe lane changes

Knowing how a motorcycle accident happened can help hold liable parties responsible for their actions. Motorcyclists can learn about their legal options to recover compensation after an accident.

What are the most common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents?

Motorcycles do not provide the same kind of protection to riders as other vehicles. As a result, motorcyclists often suffer severe injuries in accidents. Some common injuries include:

  • Road rash
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Traumatic spine injuries
  • Broken or fractured bones
  • Burns
  • Internal bleeding
  • Amputation
  • Concussions

Injuries can lead to high medical costs. Motorcyclists can recover medical damages with a successful motorcycle accident claim.

What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?

Immediately after an accident, you should call for an ambulance and police. A paramedic can care for any wounds you or other parties have suffered and make a medical report, which is an important document for an accident claim. The police can document the accident and gather evidence to make a police report, which is another key document for an accident claim. As soon as you can, you should reach out for legal representation and learn about your legal options. Our attorneys can inform you of your legal rights and help you begin the motorcycle accident claim process.

What is the process for filing a motorcycle accident claim in Montana?

The process for filing a claim and successfully recovering fair compensation involves several steps. In general, you need to contact your own insurance company and report the accident, then file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will help you gather the evidence that supports your claim and handle all the negotiations for you with the parties involved. While you technically have three years from the accident to file a claim, it is always wisest to start the process as quickly as possible.

Reach Out To Us Tipp Coburn Lockwood

The law firm of Tipp Coburn Lockwood, P.C., in Missoula, has represented more than 7,500 clients in Montana since 1959. Our legal team is affiliated with a number of professional organizations including:

  • National Trial Lawyers
  • National Association of Personal Injury Lawyers

To schedule a free consultation, contact us online or call 406-389-4215 today.