What an Attorney Does
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be a daunting task. Along with the physical injuries and emotional trauma, dealing with insurance companies and legal matters can often compound the stress. This is where the importance of seeking legal representation becomes clear.
There are many tasks an experienced personal injury attorney can help with post-accident, including:
- Dealing with insurance companies: A personal injury lawyer can provide significant support in negotiating with insurance companies (and healthcare providers).
- Collecting and analyzing evidence: Lawyers can assist in collecting evidence from the accident scene, obtaining police reports, gathering medical records, and interviewing witnesses, all of which can contribute to building a strong case.
- Demonstrating liability: An attorney can help establish the negligence of the other party involved in the accident.
- Filing a lawsuit: If necessary, your lawyer can file a lawsuit on your behalf and navigate the complex legal process.
- Representation in court: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will represent you in court, advocating on your behalf.
Keep reading to learn more about motorcycle accident cases and how an attorney may be able to help.
Determining Liability and Seeking Compensation
Determining liability is a crucial element in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident. If it can be established that the negligence or recklessness of another party caused your injuries, there could be grounds to file a personal injury claim. This process involves demonstrating that the other party failed in their duty of care, their failure resulted in the accident, and you suffered injuries as a consequence of the accident.
Successfully proving these elements may allow you to seek compensation for a variety of damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Long-term care needs
- Occupational therapies and equipment
- Rehabilitation expenses
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Remember, each case is unique, and the types of compensation you seek will depend on the specific circumstances surrounding your accident. With the help of your attorney, you can identify the best path forward for bringing a claim.
Understanding Your Case in the Context of Arizona's Comparative Negligence Laws
Under the Arizona Revised Statutes, specifically A.R.S. §12-2505, contributory negligence means that if you were partially at fault for the accident, the amount of damages you can recover will be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. Importantly, in Arizona, your claim is not completely barred even if you share some of the legal liability for the accident (except in cases where the claimant has intentionally caused or contributed to the injury or wrongful death).
Understanding comparative negligence statutes and how they pertain to your situation can be tricky. Your attorney can guide you through the intricacies of these laws, including helping you identify whether any fault may be imputed or attributed to you. This understanding is crucial to the successful resolution of your case, as it directly impacts the amount of compensation you may be able to recover.
At Alex & Associates, we understand how overwhelming a motorcycle accident can be. These accidents tend to be incredibly serious, and motorcycle riders tend to bear the brunt of the injuries. If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident in the Phoenix area, don't hesitate to reach out to our team for guidance.