Center City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Understanding Your Rights and Potential Compensation

As a motorcycle accident victim, you have the right to pursue compensation for the injuries and damages you have suffered due to someone else’s negligence. However, motorcyclists often face unique legal challenges when filing insurance claims or seeking compensation. Insurance companies frequently attempt to blame riders for accidents, even when the driver of another vehicle was clearly at fault. Additionally, bias against motorcyclists can make proving liability more difficult, which is why having experienced Center City motorcycle accident lawyers on your side is crucial.

Your Rights as a Motorcycle Accident Victim

• Right to Seek Compensation: If another driver’s negligence caused your accident, you have the right to file a claim for damages.
• Right to Legal Representation: You have the right to hire an attorney who will advocate for you against insurance companies and in court if necessary.
• Right to Refuse an Initial Settlement Offer: Insurance companies often offer low settlements to motorcycle accident victims—you are not obligated to accept the first offer.
• Right to Pursue a Lawsuit: If an insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, you have the right to take legal action against the at-fault party.

Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To

Motorcycle accidents often result in life-changing injuries, making it critical to seek full and fair compensation for both immediate and long-term damages. Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Center City, PA, will fight for the following types of compensation:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and ongoing medical treatments.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work, as well as future lost earnings if the injury impacts your ability to work.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional trauma, and the long-term impact of your injuries on your quality of life.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your motorcycle, riding gear, and other damaged property.
• Permanent Disability or Disfigurement: If your injuries result in long-term impairment or disfigurement, you may be entitled to significant damages.
• Wrongful Death: If a motorcycle accident results in the death of a loved one, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and financial support.

Challenges Motorcyclists Face in Insurance Claims

• Bias Against Motorcyclists: Many insurance adjusters assume motorcyclists are reckless or at fault, leading to unfair claim denials or reduced settlements.
• Disputed Liability: At-fault drivers often claim they “didn’t see the motorcycle”, leading insurers to dispute liability.
• Severe Injuries, High Medical Costs: Insurance companies may undervalue or deny medical expenses, leaving victims struggling with mounting medical bills.

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we know how to counter these tactics and fight aggressively to ensure our clients receive full and fair compensation. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our Center City motorcycle accident lawyers today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and legal options.

Ensuring Safety and Reporting the Incident

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, prioritizing safety and properly reporting the crash can protect your health, preserve evidence, and strengthen your legal claim. Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, making it essential to take immediate action at the scene. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, our Center City motorcycle accident lawyers strongly recommend following these steps to ensure safety and protect your legal rights.

1. Secure the Accident Scene and Prioritize Safety

• Move to a Safe Location – If possible, move yourself and your motorcycle to a safe area away from traffic. However, if you are seriously injured, remain still and wait for medical help.
• Check for Injuries – Assess yourself and others involved for injuries. Even if injuries are not immediately apparent, seek medical attention, as some conditions may worsen over time.
• Do Not Remove Protective Gear Immediately – After a crash, adrenaline may prevent you from feeling the full extent of your injuries. Removing a helmet or gear too soon could worsen a hidden injury.

2. Report the Accident to Local Authorities

• Call 911 Immediately – In Pennsylvania, motorcycle accidents resulting in injuries or property damage must be reported. Calling 911 ensures that first responders arrive at the scene quickly.
• Provide Accurate Details to the Police – When law enforcement arrives, give a factual and detailed statement about how the accident occurred.
• Request a Copy of the Police Report – The police report is crucial evidence in proving fault and supporting your injury claim. You can request a copy from the Philadelphia Police Department’s accident records division or obtain it online.

3. Gather Evidence While at the Scene (If Possible)

• Take Photos and Videos – Capture images of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries.
• Collect Contact Information – Get the names, phone numbers, and insurance details of all drivers involved, as well as any eyewitnesses.
• Note Key Details – Write down information about the accident, including weather conditions, time of day, and road hazards.

4. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

• Even if injuries seem minor, visit a doctor as soon as possible. Internal injuries, concussions, and spinal damage may not be immediately apparent.
• Medical records are critical in proving the extent of your injuries and securing fair compensation.

5. Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Center City, PA

• Before speaking to insurance companies, consult an attorney to protect your rights and prevent insurers from undervaluing your claim.
• Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Center City, PA, will handle all communications with insurers and fight for the compensation you deserve.

How van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin Can Help

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, our Center City motorcycle accident lawyers understand motorcyclists' unique challenges when seeking justice after a crash. From serious injuries to unfair biases from insurance companies, motorcycle accident victims need experienced and aggressive legal representation to ensure they receive the compensation they deserve. Our firm is dedicated to guiding you through every step of your claim, from investigation to litigation, so you can focus on your recovery.

Comprehensive Case Investigation & Evidence Collection

• We conduct detailed accident reconstructions to establish how the crash occurred and who is responsible.
• Our legal team gathers critical evidence, including police reports, traffic camera footage, black box data (if applicable), and witness statements.
• We work with medical experts to assess the full extent of your injuries, ensuring all current and future medical costs are included in your claim.

Aggressive Negotiation with Insurance Companies

• Insurance companies often unfairly blame motorcyclists for their own injuries—we push back against these tactics.
• We handle all communications with insurance adjusters to prevent them from undervaluing or denying your claim.
• Our attorneys fight for full compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term disability.

Litigation & Court Representation

• If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.
• Our trial lawyers have a proven track record of success in securing significant verdicts for motorcycle accident victims.
• We advocate aggressively in court, presenting compelling evidence and expert testimony to maximize your compensation.