At Cohen & Cohen, we understand the serious impact a motorcycle accident can have on your life. With more than 30 years working as a motorcycle lawyer in DC, Wayne Cohen and his partners have helped motorcycle injury victims recover money for their cases. In fact, in Washington, DC, motorcyclists face unique challenges, from unpredictable traffic patterns to unexpected road hazards. Our firm is committed to representing injured motorcyclists with the focus, determination, and skill that these cases require. With decades of experience and a deep knowledge of DC accident laws, we are here to guide you every step of the way toward securing the compensation you deserve.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents and Causes
Motorcycle accidents can occur in various ways, each with unique implications for a personal injury case. Understanding these distinctions helps us build a case that aligns with your specific accident circumstances:
- Left-Turn Collisions: Frequently caused by drivers misjudging an approaching motorcycle’s speed or distance.
- Rear-End Collisions: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible, making them vulnerable to drivers who follow too closely or fail to brake in time.
- Lane-Switching Accidents: Often due to drivers’ blind spots, this type of accident occurs when drivers change lanes without seeing a motorcyclist beside them.
- Single-Bike Accidents: Sometimes, a motorcycle accident doesn’t involve other vehicles. Poor road maintenance, debris, and weather conditions can lead to serious single-bike accidents.
Whether your accident was caused by a driver’s negligence, hazardous road conditions, or an unexpected obstacle, we are prepared to investigate the details, gather evidence, and fight for your rights.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often lead to serious injuries due to limited protection compared to other vehicles. At Cohen & Cohen, we understand the medical and financial toll these injuries can take, and we are here to help you recover the compensation you need to move forward.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, motorcyclists are susceptible to head trauma that can lead to lasting cognitive and physical challenges.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, drastically altering the course of a person’s life.
- Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries: While they may sound minor, severe road rash can lead to serious infections and require extensive medical treatment.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Motorcyclists are especially prone to fractures in the legs, arms, and collarbones due to the impact of an accident.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to organs can occur due to blunt force trauma, which can be life-threatening and may require surgery.
Damages in Motorcycle Accident Cases
If you were in a motorcyclist that was another driver’s fault, your DC motorcycle accident lawyer may help you obtain compensation for the following damages:
- Medical Costs: The injuries you suffered during a motorcycle accident likely resulted in a hospital trip, doctor’s visits and medication. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer DC trusts may assist you in getting reimbursed for these medical costs.
- Motorcycle Repairs: A motorcycle accident may have also resulted in severe damage to your motorcycle. If you win your case, you may receive compensation for the repairs.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries have caused you to miss time from work, you may be able to obtain compensation for any lost wages.
Our Process: How We Handle Your Case
Navigating a motorcycle accident claim requires expertise and commitment to detail. Our team at Cohen & Cohen follows a proven process designed to maximize your case outcome:
- Initial Consultation: We start with a comprehensive, no-obligation consultation to review your accident’s details, answer your questions, and outline next steps.
- Evidence Collection and Investigation: Gathering strong evidence is crucial. We collect police reports, medical records, photos, eyewitness accounts, and, if needed, hire accident reconstruction experts.
- Medical Documentation and Support: Accurately documenting your injuries and medical expenses is vital. We work closely with your healthcare providers to ensure that all injuries and future needs are thoroughly documented.
- Settlement Negotiation: We handle all negotiations with insurance companies, seeking a settlement that reflects the full scope of your losses and long-term needs.
- Litigation, if Necessary: While we aim for fair settlements, our team is prepared to take your case to court if insurers refuse a fair settlement.
We prioritize clear communication throughout the process, so you always understand what to expect at each stage of your case.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Understanding what compensation is available can help provide peace of mind. Motorcycle accident victims may be eligible for several types of compensation, depending on their injuries, medical expenses, and impact on daily life.
| Type of Compensation | Description |
|---|---|
| Medical Expenses | Coverage for immediate and ongoing healthcare, surgeries, and rehabilitation |
| Lost Wages | Reimbursement for income lost due to time away from work |
| Pain and Suffering | Damages to compensate for physical pain and emotional distress |
| Property Damage | Costs associated with repairing or replacing your motorcycle and personal property |
| Future Medical Care | Projected costs for ongoing treatments, therapies, and medical needs |
| Loss of Consortium | Compensation for loss of companionship or support provided to loved ones |
Our team takes time to calculate the full scope of compensation you may deserve, factoring in not only your immediate needs but also your future quality of life.
Why Choose Cohen & Cohen?
Choosing the right law firm to represent you is critical to your case’s success. Here’s why Cohen & Cohen stands out:
- Proven Results: Our track record of securing favorable outcomes for our clients speaks for itself. We understand the tactics that insurance companies use and know how to counter them effectively.
- Client-Centered Approach: We believe that clients deserve not just a skilled lawyer but also a team who truly cares about their recovery journey.
- Experience in Motorcycle Accident Law: Motorcycle accidents are complex cases that demand a nuanced understanding of local laws and a familiarity with common insurance defense strategies.
- Resources and Network: We work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and financial advisors, ensuring that every angle of your case is meticulously prepared.
DC Motorcycle Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Washington, DC?
You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a claim. It’s best to begin the process as soon as possible to allow ample time for gathering evidence and building your case.
What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident?
While DC law requires all motorcyclists to wear helmets, not wearing one doesn’t automatically bar you from seeking compensation. However, it could impact your case, particularly if you sustained head injuries.
What should I do if the insurance company offers a settlement right away?
It’s often advisable to consult with an attorney before accepting any settlement offers. Insurance companies may attempt to settle quickly to minimize payouts, and these offers may not cover your long-term needs.
Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
DC follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning that if you are found even 1% at fault, you may not be able to recover damages. This makes having a skilled lawyer critical to avoid unjust blame.
How much will it cost to hire Cohen & Cohen for my case?
We work on a contingency fee basis, which means we only get paid if you win. This approach ensures that you can pursue justice without the stress of upfront legal fees.
Contact our DC Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today!
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. At Cohen & Cohen, we’re here to support you at every turn. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Washington, DC, contact us today for a free consultation. We are committed to helping you achieve a fair settlement and providing the peace of mind you deserve.
