Motorcycle accidents can be a very traumatic experience for everyone involved. Beyond the physical pain, they can also cause emotional and financial damage that can impact you and your loved ones for years to come. If you’ve been a victim of a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, it’s important to know your legal rights and options. Here’s what you need to know about motorcycle accident lawsuits in Pennsylvania.
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Understanding Pennsylvania Motorcycle Laws
Before we delve into the specifics of motorcycle accident lawsuits, let’s first take a look at Pennsylvania motorcycle laws. In Pennsylvania, motorcycle riders must adhere to certain laws to ensure their safety and the safety of others while on the road. These laws include:
- Helmets: All riders and passengers must wear an approved helmet, regardless of their age or level of experience.
- Eye protection: Riders must wear eye protection, which can be in the form of goggles, a face shield, or eyeglasses with shatterproof lenses.
- Passenger age: Passengers must be at least eight years old to be able to ride on a motorcycle.
- Lane splitting: It is illegal for riders to pass other vehicles in the same lane, otherwise known as lane splitting.
It’s important to note that if you were in compliance with all of Pennsylvania’s motorcycle laws at the time of the accident, this can strengthen your case.
Who is Responsible for a Motorcycle Accident in Pennsylvania?
When it comes to motorcycle accidents, determining fault can be a complex process. In Pennsylvania, the person who caused the accident is typically held responsible. This is based on the concept of negligence or carelessness. For example, if the other driver wasn’t paying attention to the road and hit you while you were on your motorcycle, they could be held responsible for the accident.
What Should I Do if I’m in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you’re in a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, there are several steps you should take immediately. These include:
Call 911: The first step is to call 911 and get medical attention for yourself and anyone else who was involved in the accident.
Gather evidence: If you’re able to, gather evidence at the scene of the accident. This can include taking photos of the damage to your motorcycle, the other vehicle, and the surrounding area.
Exchange information: Get the name, contact information, and insurance information of the other driver involved in the accident.
Contact a lawyer: It’s important to contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
What Can I Recover in a Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?
If you’re the victim of a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, you may be able to recover compensation for several types of damages. These can include:
Medical expenses: This includes any medical bills related to the accident, including hospital stays, doctor visits, and rehabilitation costs.
Lost wages: If you’re unable to work due to your injuries, you may be able to recover lost wages.
Pain and suffering: You may also be able to recover compensation for the pain and suffering you experienced as a result of the accident.
Property damage: If your motorcycle was damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover the cost of repairs or replacement.
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits, including motorcycle accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. This means that you have two years to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for your damages. It’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your case is filed within this time frame.
Conclusion
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, it’s important to know your legal rights and options. By understanding Pennsylvania motorcycle laws, knowing who is responsible for the accident, and taking the right steps immediately after the accident, you can increase your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. Contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your case and protect your rights.