Broken Arrow Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Your Broken Arrow Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

As your trusted Broken Arrow, OK motorcycle accident lawyer understands, getting into an accident while riding your motorcycle can mean not only are you suffering from excruciating physical pain, but you may also be dealing with the emotional trauma from the wreck as well. Understandably, you may be wondering what steps you need to take so that you can receive compensation for the injuries you sustained as a result of your accident and it is crucial that you work with a lawyer you can count on.

At Wandres Law Injury and Accident Attorneys, we appreciate the practice and form that is required to use a motorcycle. However, even if you are the safest rider out there, you could still find yourself severely injured in an accident due to a reckless car driver. Did you know that by law, drivers have a duty to those around them to operate their vehicle in a manner that is safe? So if a car driver hit you while riding a motorcycle and it caused injury and financial loss, then you may have a case. If you want to hear more about the types of damages you could be eligible for, then contact our team now.

Unfair Judgements About Motorcyclists

Motorcycle riders tend to be unfairly judged as risk-takers and rebels, and this is especially true when it comes to insurance companies handling accident lawsuits. In reality, most riders are cautious and practice safe driving. Motorcyclists are not as physically protected as car drivers so they are motivated to stay out of the way and avoid an accident. A Broken Arrow motorcycle accident lawyer is dedicated to fighting for motorcyclists and their rights as injured victims in collisions that they didn’t cause themselves. All it takes is one car driver to not look for the presence of a rider well enough before making a maneuver to result in a serious tragedy.

Accident Contributing Factors

There are limitless factors that can cause a motorcycle accident to happen. A car driver may have been distracted by their phone, adjusting the radio, talking with a passenger, been under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, or felt like being reckless moments before the collision. Some drivers fail to take the time and effort to observe motorcyclists before changing lanes or proceeding through an intersection. Car drivers may not be able to accurately judge the speed of an oncoming rider or are not aware of the limitations motorcyclists have to deal with. Many accidents involving motorcyclists are the result of drivers who partake in unsafe behaviors, like tailgating, speeding, driving aggressively, and more.

Are there motorcycle helmet laws specific to my state? 

If you weren’t wearing a helmet when you got into your motorcycle accident, you may be wondering how this will affect your claim. Things can become confusing because each state will have its own laws and rules regarding liability in an accident and how wearing a helmet can affect your compensation. If you were not wearing a helmet, you should speak with your trusted Broken Arrow motorcycle accident lawyer to learn more about what actions you need to take specific to your claim.

In the state of Oklahoma, there is no law that requires every motorcycle driver to wear a helmet (though it is a wise idea to keep yourself safe while on the road). Oklahoma does, however, require anyone who is driving or riding–as a passenger–on a motorcycle to wear a helmet if they are under the age of 18.

What if insurance is telling me they will reduce my claim because I wasn’t wearing a helmet? 

If you have filed a claim with the other driver’s insurance and are hoping to receive compensation, you may be shocked when the insurance agent comes back and says they are reducing your claim amount because you were not wearing a helmet. The truth is, insurance agents will use anything they can to reduce your claim or make it seem as if you were unfit to be on the road at the time of the accident. However, having a trusted lawyer on your side to help you fight for compensation can increase your chances of not receiving a low offer. Without the help of a lawyer, you will be left negotiating with insurance on your own and the insurance agent will use many different tactics to give you the least amount of money possible.

Wearing the Proper Safety Gear 

Though you may be allowed to ride your motorcycle without a helmet legally, it is imperative that you wear the proper safety gear while on the road. Motorcycle riders, especially, must be prudent when it comes to safety on the road. While it may not hurt your claim, it can leave you in the hospital with worse injuries if you get into an accident.

Motorcyclists deserve to go out for a ride and not have to worry about being hit by a careless car driver. But sadly, these incidents happen all the time. If you were injured by a driver and need compensation for your medical bills, loss of wages, and property damage, then reach out to a Broken Arrow motorcycle accident lawyer promptly. A team member from Wandres Law Injury and Accident Attorneys is waiting to assist you. Let us evaluate your situation, calculate a potential monetary award to pursue, and then hold the offenders responsible for what you have been put through. After a consultation, we can then recommend the next steps and can begin advocating for your financial recovery immediately.

Types Of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle

Our Broken Arrow, OK motorcycle accident lawyer knows that motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the limited protection riders have compared to other vehicles. These accidents can occur in a variety of situations, each with unique causes and consequences. Knowing the types of motorcycle accident cases can help you understand your rights and what to expect when seeking compensation for injuries or damages. Remember, you pay nothing unless we win, so call us today.

Intersection Accidents

Many motorcycle accidents happen at intersections when drivers fail to see a motorcycle or disregard traffic signals. These collisions often involve turning vehicles or red-light violations.

Lane Splitting Accidents

As our Broken Arrow motorcycle accident lawyer knows, lane splitting, where motorcycles travel between lanes of slow-moving traffic, can lead to accidents if other drivers change lanes unexpectedly. These cases often involve sudden collisions caused by driver inattention.

Left Turn Accidents

A common cause of motorcycle collisions occurs when a driver makes a left turn directly in front of a motorcycle. These accidents often result from the driver failing to see the motorcycle or misjudging its speed.

Rear End Accidents

When a driver hits a motorcycle from behind, the rider may suffer serious injuries due to being thrown off balance. These accidents often involve distracted driving or tailgating.

Lane Change Accidents

Drivers changing lanes without checking for motorcycles in their blind spots can cause dangerous collisions. Motorcycle riders are often less visible, increasing the risk of impact.

Single Vehicle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes can happen without another vehicle being involved. Road hazards, debris, or loss of control on curves can result in serious injury to the rider.

Motorcycle And Truck Accidents

Collisions between motorcycles and large trucks often cause devastating injuries due to the size and weight difference. These cases frequently involve improper lane changes or failure to yield.

High-Speed Accidents

Excessive speed is a significant factor in many motorcycle accidents. Higher speeds increase the severity of injuries and reduce the rider’s ability to avoid collisions.

Impaired Driving Accidents

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs affects reaction time and decision-making, making motorcycle accidents more likely and often more severe.

Motorcycle Defect Accidents

Manufacturing defects or poor maintenance of a motorcycle can cause accidents. Cases may involve faulty brakes, tires, or other mechanical failures that result in injury.

Motorcycle accidents often lead to significant injuries that require lengthy recovery and medical treatment. These incidents can cause substantial emotional and financial strain. Addressing them through legal action can help protect your rights and recover damages for your losses. At Wandres Law Injury and Accident Attorneys, we handle motorcycle accident cases with dedication and attention to detail. We have 70 years of combined experience. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our Broken Arrow motorcycle accident lawyer today to discuss your case and learn how we can help you pursue the compensation you deserve.

Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents

As our Broken Arrow, OK motorcycle accident lawyer knows, motorcycle accidents often happen quickly and can lead to serious injuries. Unlike drivers in passenger vehicles, you have less protection, which makes it even more important to understand what commonly causes these crashes. Knowing these risks can help you stay alert on the road and recognize when another party may be responsible for what happened. We solely work with those who have been injured, so call us for help.

1. Drivers Failing To See Motorcycles. One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is when drivers fail to notice motorcycles in traffic. This often happens at intersections or when changing lanes. You may be in plain view, but a smaller vehicle size and blind spots can lead drivers to misjudge distance or overlook you completely.
2. Left-Turn Accidents. Many motorcycle crashes occur when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming rider. These situations often involve a driver who believes they have enough time to turn but miscalculates your speed. You may have little time to react when a car suddenly crosses your path.
3. Distracted Driving. Drivers who are texting, adjusting controls, or focused on something other than the road create serious risks. Even a brief distraction can prevent a driver from seeing you or reacting in time. These moments often lead to rear-end collisions or unsafe lane changes.
4. Unsafe Lane Changes. Our Broken Arrow motorcycle accident lawyer knows that motorcycles can be harder to spot in mirrors, especially if a driver does not check blind spots carefully. Sudden lane changes without proper signaling or awareness can force you into dangerous situations, including being sideswiped or pushed off the road.
5. Speeding. Speeding reduces reaction time and increases the force of impact in a crash. Whether it is a driver or a motorcyclist, excessive speed makes it harder to avoid hazards and respond to changes in traffic. You may find that speeding drivers are less able to adjust when you are nearby.
6. Driving Under The Influence. Alcohol or drug use continues to be a major factor in serious accidents. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment, which can lead to unpredictable actions on the road. These conditions make it more likely that a driver will fail to notice or properly respond to a motorcycle.
7. Road Hazards. Motorcycles are more sensitive to road conditions than larger vehicles. Potholes, loose gravel, uneven pavement, or debris can cause you to lose control. Poorly maintained roads or construction zones without proper warnings may contribute to these incidents.
8. Dooring Incidents. In urban or parked street areas, a driver or passenger may open a car door into your path without checking for oncoming traffic. These sudden obstacles can leave you with little time to avoid a collision, often resulting in serious injury.
9. Mechanical Failures. Problems such as brake failure, tire issues, or defective parts can lead to accidents. In some cases, the failure may be linked to poor maintenance, while in others it may involve defective equipment. Identifying the cause can be important in determining responsibility.
10. Weather Conditions. Rain, fog, and other weather conditions can reduce visibility and make roads slippery. You may face reduced traction and longer stopping distances, while other drivers may struggle to see you clearly. These conditions increase the risk of accidents when drivers fail to adjust their behavior.

Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help you take precautions and recognize when another party may be at fault. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, Wandres Law Injury and Accident Attorneys can help you review what happened and consider your next steps. Our firm has nearly 20 years of experience with motorcycle accident cases, so please call us for help with your case. Reaching out to our Broken Arrow motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your situation can help you protect your rights and move forward with a clearer path.