Toledo Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Motorcycle Crash Attorneys in Ohio

Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in serious injuries, financial burdens, and emotional trauma. In 2023 alone, 230 Ohioans were killed in motorcycle crashes, highlighting the significant risks faced by riders.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Toledo, the experienced attorneys at Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy are here to help you understand your rights and navigate the complex legal process. We’ll fight to secure the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your recovery.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, many of which involve the negligence or recklessness of other drivers. Understanding these common causes can help motorcyclists and other road users take precautions to prevent crashes, as well as identify who is liable after the crash.

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging in other distracting activities may not notice motorcyclists, leading to serious collisions.
• Speeding and Reckless Driving: Drivers who speed, weave through traffic, make sudden lane changes, and fail to yield the right-of-way are more likely to cause crashes.
• Impaired Driving: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment, reaction time, and coordination, making them more likely to cause severe accidents.  
• Poor Visibility or Road Conditions: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, making them more difficult to spot, especially in low-light conditions or bad weather. Poor road conditions, such as potholes, uneven surfaces, or debris, can also pose a danger to motorcyclists.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries to riders, due to the lack of standard safety features such as seatbelts, airbags, and crumple zones found in other vehicles.

Common injuries include:

• Road Rash and Skin Abrasions: Road rash is a common injury in motorcycle accidents, occurring when the rider’s skin slides across the pavement. These abrasions can be painful, prone to infection, and may require extensive treatment, including skin grafts in severe cases.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries are a major concern in motorcycle accidents, even when wearing a helmet. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, potentially leading to long-term cognitive impairments, memory loss, and personality changes.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: The spinal cord is particularly vulnerable in motorcycle accidents, especially in cases involving the rider being thrown from their bike or impacts that cause the rider’s body to twist or bend violently. Spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, affecting mobility, sensation, and bodily functions.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The impact of a motorcycle accident can cause fractures to various parts of the body, including the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries can be painful, require surgery or immobilization, and lead to long recovery periods.
• Internal Organ Damage: The force of a motorcycle accident can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs such as the spleen, liver, or kidneys. These injuries may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if not promptly diagnosed and treated.
• Psychological Trauma: The emotional and psychological impact of a motorcycle accident can be significant. Victims may experience anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), requiring ongoing mental health support.

It’s crucial to seek medical attention after a motorcycle accident, even if you feel fine initially. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms right away, and early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent long-term complications.

Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims

Motorcycle accidents often lead to significant financial burdens, but victims may be entitled to compensation to help alleviate these burdens and rebuild their lives when their crashes are due to another person’s negligence. Here are some key types of compensation that can be sought:

Medical Expenses

• Hospital stays
• Surgeries
• Medications
• Physical therapy
• Prosthetic devices
• Long-term care, such as in-home healthcare or assistance with daily tasks

Lost Wages

• Lost wages during recovery
• Diminished earning potential throughout the victim’s lifetime

Pain and Suffering

• Physical pain and discomfort
• Emotional distress
• Anxiety
• Loss of enjoyment of life associated with the injury

Property Damage

• The cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle and any other property damaged in the crash

Seeking compensation for these damages requires thorough documentation and skilled legal representation. An experienced Toledo motorcycle accident lawyer can help victims navigate this process and fight for maximum compensation.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Toledo

The moments after a motorcycle accident can be chaotic and confusing. It’s crucial to stay calm and take the necessary steps to protect your safety and preserve your legal rights.

• Safety First: If possible, move yourself and your motorcycle out of the flow of traffic to prevent further injury.
• Call for Help: Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s essential to get checked out by a medical professional.
• Gather Information: If you are able, gather information at the scene, including:
  • The other driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details
  • Contact information of any witnesses
  • Photos or videos of the accident scene, your motorcycle, and any visible injuries
• Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your own insurance company, but be cautious about what you say. Avoid admitting fault or making any statements that could be used against you later.
• Consult with a Toledo Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can advise you on your legal rights and options, help you navigate the claims process, and ensure your interests are protected.

Taking these steps after a motorcycle accident can help you secure the medical care you need and build a strong case for compensation if you decide to pursue a legal claim.

Proving Fault in a Toledo Motorcycle Accident Case

Determining who is at fault in a motorcycle accident can be complex, especially due to biases against motorcyclists. However, with a clear understanding of Ohio law and strong legal representation, you can fight for the compensation you deserve. Here are some factors to consider:

Ohio’s Comparative Negligence Law

Ohio follows a “modified comparative negligence” rule. This means that if you are found to be partially at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you will not be able to recover any compensation.  

Building a Strong Case

To prove fault and establish negligence, it’s crucial to gather and preserve evidence, such as:

• Police Reports: These reports might contain crucial details about the accident, including witness statements, diagrams, and any citations issued.
• Photos and Videos: Visual evidence of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries can be compelling evidence.
• Witness Testimony: Statements from people who witnessed the accident can provide valuable perspectives and corroborate your account of events.
• Medical Records: Your medical records document your injuries and the treatment you received, establishing the extent of your damages.
• Accident Reconstruction: In complex cases, accident reconstruction experts can analyze the evidence and create a detailed reconstruction of the accident, which can be used to demonstrate how the accident occurred and who was at fault.

Proving fault in a motorcycle accident case requires a thorough understanding of the law and the ability to present evidence effectively. An experienced Toledo motorcycle accident lawyer can help you build a strong case and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Choose Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy for Your Toledo Motorcycle Accident Case

Motorcycle accidents often present unique challenges. It can be difficult to prove who was at fault, and insurance companies may be biased against motorcyclists. That’s why choosing the right legal representation is crucial. At Nurenberg, Paris, Heller & McCarthy, we have extensive experience handling motorcycle accident cases in Toledo and throughout Ohio. Our attorneys have an understanding of local laws, insurers, and resources, as well as a proven track record of securing favorable outcomes for clients.

In addition, we are skilled negotiators who will fight tirelessly to get you a fair settlement. We prioritize your needs and well-being, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in or around Toledo, contact us now for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain how we can help.