Motorcycle riding in Pennsylvania offers freedom and excitement—but it comes with serious risks. In 2022, Pennsylvania saw approximately 3,369 motorcycle crashes, resulting in 217 fatalities (PennDOT). Due to the limited protection motorcycles provide, even a minor accident can cause significant injuries. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash caused by someone else, you may be entitled to compensation.
Understanding the common types of motorcycle accidents can help you stay safer and protect your legal rights.
What Are Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents in Philadelphia?
1. Rear-End Motorcycle Accidents
Rear-end collisions happen when a vehicle crashes into the back of a motorcycle. These accidents can be far more dangerous than typical car rear-ends because the motorcyclist may be thrown from the bike or struck directly by the vehicle. Common causes include tailgating and distracted driving.
2. Left-Turn Accidents
These accidents occur when a driver turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle, often misjudging the rider’s speed or failing to see them. Left-turn collisions are particularly dangerous and frequently result in serious or fatal injuries.
3. Blindspot Accidents
Motorcycles can easily disappear from a car’s blind spot. Drivers changing lanes without checking their blind spot may sideswipe a motorcyclist, causing them to crash. Even minor contact can lead to serious injuries due to the lack of protection.
4. Head-On Collisions
Head-on crashes are among the most severe motorcycle accidents. They often involve a motorist drifting into the wrong lane, sometimes due to distraction, fatigue, or intoxication. The impact of these accidents is extremely dangerous and often fatal.
5. Dooring Accidents
Dooring accidents occur when a parked car’s door opens into the path of a motorcycle. Riders may collide with the door or swerve to avoid it, often resulting in a high-risk fall or collision with another vehicle.
6. T-Bone (Side-Impact) Accidents
T-bone accidents happen when a driver fails to yield the right of way, often running a red light or stop sign. The motorcyclist is struck on the side, which can cause life-threatening injuries.
FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents in Philadelphia
Q: What should I do after a motorcycle accident in Philadelphia?
A: Ensure your safety and call 911. Seek medical attention even for minor injuries. Take photos of the scene, get witness information, and avoid admitting fault.
Q: How soon should I contact a Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer?
A: As soon as possible. Prompt legal representation ensures evidence is preserved, and your attorney can guide you through insurance and compensation processes.
Q: Can I still recover compensation if the accident was partly my fault?
A: Yes. Pennsylvania follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages even if you are partially at fault, though your compensation may be reduced proportionally.
Q: What types of damages can I claim after a motorcycle accident?
A: Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages for egregious negligence.
How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can:
- Investigate your crash and collect evidence.
- Identify negligent parties.
- Quantify damages to negotiate with insurance companies.
- Defend you against wrongful fault claims.
Insurance companies often assume motorcyclists are at fault. A skilled lawyer ensures your rights are protected and maximizes your chance of receiving fair compensation.
Contact a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Bikers Have Rights – We Ride Too
At Bikers Have Rights, we don’t just represent motorcyclists—we ride motorcycles ourselves. We understand the unique risks and challenges of riding because we’ve experienced them firsthand. If you’ve been injured, a Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer is ready to fight for your rights. Call 877-333-0300 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Plymouth Meeting, Pennsylvania, we serve clients across Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
