Colburn Hintze Maletta: Your Trusted Peoria Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
When it comes to riding in and around Peoria, Arizona, motorcycle enthusiasts are treated to breathtaking scenery that includes the state’s iconic red rocks, canyons, forests, and mountains. It’s no wonder that motorcycles have gained popularity among residents, thanks to their affordability and lower fuel costs. However, while motorcycles offer countless benefits, they also come with inherent risks of serious injuries or even death in the event of an accident.
At Colburn Hintze Maletta, we understand the unique challenges faced by motorcycle riders and the devastating impact that accidents can have on their lives. As a leading motorcycle accident lawyer in Peoria, we are committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims and their families, helping them secure the compensation they deserve.
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Why Hire a Motorcycle Accident Injury Lawyer in Peoria
Why Choose a Lawyer Who Understands Motorcycles
Choosing a personal injury lawyer who understands motorcycles for your motorcycle injury case can greatly enhance the outcome of your claim. This is because motorcycles have unique dynamics different from other vehicles, and the accidents involving them usually have distinct circumstances. Thus, a lawyer who comprehends these aspects can better interpret the details of your case, including understanding the mechanics of the collision, assessing the damages and injuries based on motorcycle operating specifics, and determining liability more accurately.
Additionally, a lawyer who knows about motorcycles can better empathize with your experiences on the road. They are familiar with the challenges you face while riding, such as dealing with blind spots, the risk of getting knocked over, and the lack of protective barriers between you and the road. Therefore, they can use this understanding to argue for your rights more effectively, enhancing your chances for a successful resolution and increasing your potential for maximum compensation.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics: A Stark Reality
The statistics surrounding motorcycle accidents are alarming. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020 alone, 5,579 motorcycle riders lost their lives on U.S. roads—an 11% increase from the previous year. Additionally, 82,500 riders were injured in motorcycle accidents, highlighting the seriousness of these incidents.
Closer to home, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) reported 2,317 motorcycle wrecks in 2020, resulting in 160 deaths and 1,921 injuries. Most of these accidents occurred in urban areas, further emphasizing the need for heightened awareness and protection for motorcycle riders.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Peoria
To effectively address the issue of motorcycle accidents, it is essential to understand their underlying causes. In a groundbreaking study commissioned by the NHTSA, researchers found that two-thirds of motorcycle accidents were caused by motorists who violated the riders’ right-of-way.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Motorists failing to see motorcycles
- Drunk or drugged driving by either the motorcyclist or motorist
- Speeding
- Motorists violating the motorcycle rider’s right-of-way
- Running stoplights or stop signs
- Vehicles turning left in front of oncoming motorcycles
- Distracted driving
- Drowsy driving
- People opening doors in the paths of oncoming motorcycles
- Aggressive driving
- Failing to check for motorcycles when changing lanes
Contrary to popular belief, research has shown that motorcyclists are not inherently reckless or at fault for their accidents. In fact, the majority of accidents occur due to the negligence of other motorists, who often fail to detect motorcycles due to their smaller size.
The Devastating Injuries Caused by Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries that can have long-lasting consequences for the victims.
Most common injuries sustained in such accidents include:
- Head and face injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Road rash
- Crush injuries
- Thoracic injuries
- Fractured legs and ankles
- Pelvic fractures
- Rib and arm fractures
- Skull fractures
- Amputations
- Avulsions
- Burns
- Severe lacerations
- Organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Death
Survivors of motorcycle accidents often face multiple injuries, enduring significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. It becomes imperative for victims to pursue legal action to seek the compensation needed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Securing Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims
Determining the exact compensation available in a motorcycle accident case requires careful analysis of various factors, including fault allocation, available insurance coverage, the severity of injuries, and the conduct of the at-fault party. At Colburn Hintze Maletta, we provide personalized attention to each case, tailoring our approach to ensure the maximum recovery for our clients.
Damages that may be sought in a motorcycle accident claim include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Rehabilitation and physical therapy costs (past and future)
- Property losses
- Lost wages (past and future)
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Emotional trauma
- Disfigurement and scarring
In wrongful death claims, additional damages may be sought to compensate for funeral and burial costs, loss of financial and household contributions, grief, loss of consortium and guidance, and lost inheritance rights. In rare cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the defendant for willful or reckless behavior.
Navigating Insurance Challenges
When it comes to motorcycle accidents in Arizona, victims typically file claims with the insurance company of the at-fault party under the state’s fault-based system. However, this can be problematic if the at-fault driver is either uninsured or lacks sufficient insurance coverage to meet the victim’s losses.
To address this issue, Arizona law requires auto insurers to offer uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This additional coverage can be invaluable in cases where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured. By having this coverage, motorcycle accident victims can file a claim with their own insurance company to obtain the necessary compensation.
Consult Peoria’s Premier Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t bear the burden alone. The experienced team of motorcycle accident lawyers at Colburn Hintze Maletta is here to provide the legal representation and support you need. As a trusted advocate for accident victims in Peoria, Maricopa County, and beyond, we fight tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve.
Contact our office today at (602) 825-2500 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your rights and legal options. Remember, time is of the essence, as Arizona has strict deadlines for filing motorcycle accident lawsuits. Let us be your voice in seeking the justice and compensation you deserve.
About Peoria Arizona
Peoria, Arizona is located in Maricopa County and has a population of approximately 176,635 according to the latest census data. The racial demographics of the city are primarily White at 77.9%, African American at 3.5%, and Asian at 2.9%. Persons of Hispanic or Latino origin make up approximately 20% of the population.
Peoria is managed under Maricopa County’s jurisdiction, which means any personal injury cases, including those related to bicycle accidents, would be handled by the Maricopa County Superior Court. This court carries jurisdiction over all categories of cases, such as personal injuries, probate, and criminal cases.
Data regarding bicycle accident injury cases specifically in Peoria is not readily accessible. However, it’s part of Maricopa County, which, as per 2019 data from the Arizona Department of Transportation, encountered approximately 1,275 bicycle-related accidents resulting in 24 deaths and over 1,155 injuries. While these figures are county-wide, Peoria does contribute its share to these statistics.
In personal injury cases, victims often rely on legal professionals to help them gauge liability, quantify damages, and provide representation in a court trial, if necessary. The complexity of such cases underscores the importance of legal expertise.