Washington D.C. Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

The Importance of Legal Representation in Washington, DC

Motorcycle accidents carry an exceptionally high risk of serious injury and can dramatically alter the course of a person's life. Unlike car occupants, motorcyclists lack a surrounding structure to protect them in the event of a collision, leaving them exposed to direct impact with other vehicles and the road. The aftermath impacts the victim's physical health, psychological well-being, livelihood, and overall quality of life.

At Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC, we understand the gravity of these incidents and work relentlessly to ensure victims receive the justice they deserve. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Washington, D.C. are fierce litigators who can help you hold negligent parties accountable and recover the compensation you are entitled to under the law. With over 100 years of combined legal experience and hundreds of millions recovered for our clients, our record of success is undeniable, and we are ready to provide powerful advocacy and fight to secure the best possible results.

Have you been injured in a motorcycle accident? Call Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC today at (301) 450-5742 or contact us online to schedule a meeting with our Washington, D.C. motorcycle accident attorneys!

Negligent Driver Behaviors That Lead to Motorcycle Accidents

Many drivers fail to extend the same courtesy to motorcyclists that they do to other vehicles. This behavior is not only disrespectful but also incredibly dangerous. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, making it crucial for drivers to exercise caution and respect. Yet, too often, motorcyclists are forced to contend with drivers who tailgate, cut them off, or simply fail to acknowledge their presence on the road, increasing the risk of an accident. A driver becomes liable for a motorcycle accident when their negligent or reckless behavior directly causes the collision.

Examples of negligent behavior that can make a driver liable for a motorcycle accident include:

• Distracted driving. When a driver is texting, eating, using a GPS, or engaging in any activity that takes their attention away from the road, the few seconds of distraction can prevent them from reacting to prevent a collision, particularly at high speeds. Moreover, distracted drivers may fail to notice motorcyclists due to their smaller size, further compounding the risk.
• Speeding. Driving above the speed limit reduces reaction times and makes it more challenging to respond to hazards. It endangers everyone on the road, especially motorcyclists who have less protection.
• Driving under the influence. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely. These substances diminish the driver's motor skills, reaction times, and decision-making abilities, all critical for safe driving. Drunk driving remains a leading cause of serious accidents, including those involving motorcycles.
• Failure to yield the right of way. This is an unfortunately common cause of accidents involving motorcycles. Drivers often fail to yield the right of way to motorcycles at intersections or when changing lanes, leading to dangerous collisions. A momentary lapse in judgment can have catastrophic consequences.
• Tailgating. Following too closely behind a motorcycle can easily lead to a rear-end collision, especially if the motorcyclist needs to brake suddenly. This aggressive behavior can be considered negligent and often results in severe injuries.
• Failure to signal. When drivers fail to signal their intentions to turn or change lanes, it can lead to disastrous consequences, especially for motorcyclists, who are left with little time to react to sudden road changes.

Our Washington, D.C., motorcycle accident attorneys are prepared to handle cases involving these and other negligent behaviors. If our team agrees to take your case, we will work diligently to investigate the collision, gather and preserve evidence, and build the strongest possible case on your behalf.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries even if the motorcyclist wore safety gear during the crash. In any collision, a motorcyclist is directly exposed to the impacting forces, often with devastating consequences.

Common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Head injuries. Head injuries are one of the most common and severe injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents. They can range from mild concussions to traumatic brain injuries. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk, but head injuries can still occur due to the force of the impact. Symptoms may include memory loss, confusion, dizziness, and in the worst cases, can lead to permanent cognitive impairment or death.
• Spinal cord injuries. These injuries can have life-altering consequences, including paralysis. The spinal cord is responsible for transmitting messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Damage to this system can disrupt communication, leading to loss of sensation and motor function below the level of injury.
• Road rash. This refers to skin abrasions when a rider slides across the pavement during an accident. Road rash can range from minor scrapes to deep wounds that require surgery. In severe cases, there may be permanent damage to the skin and underlying tissues.
• Fractures and broken bones. Motorcyclists are at risk for bone fractures due to the lack of protection that motorcycles offer compared to cars. Common areas for fractures include the arms, legs, collarbone, wrists, and ribs. Recovery from broken bones can be painful and time-consuming, often affecting the victim’s daily life and work.
• Internal injuries. The impact of a motorcycle accident can cause internal injuries, including damage to organs, internal bleeding, and punctured lungs. These injuries are less immediately visible but equally life-threatening, necessitating immediate medical attention.
• Lower extremity injuries. Injuries to the legs, knees, and feet are common in motorcycle accidents. These can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe breaks and even amputations, significantly impacting mobility and overall quality of life.
• Biker's arm. This injury occurs when a rider instinctively puts their arm out to break a fall during a crash, resulting in nerve damage to the arm. This can lead to long-term weakness and functional impairment.

Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims

Our team at Rowe, Weinstein & Sohn, PLLC, meticulously documents all aspects of your case to provide a comprehensive picture of the damages incurred. We rigorously negotiate to pursue fair compensation and won't hesitate to take your case to court if necessary. Our overriding goal is to maximize your recovery, ensuring you have the resources needed to rebuild and move forward with your life.

Our Washington, D.C. motorcycle accident lawyers will work to secure just compensation for all losses, including:

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Diminished earning capacity
• Property damage
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium
• Pain and suffering

Filing Deadlines for Motorcycle Accident Claims in Washington, D.C.