Glenside Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Types of Motorcycle Accident Cases van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin Handles in Glenside, PA

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we understand that motorcycle accidents often involve catastrophic injuries, complex fault determinations, and legal obstacles that go far beyond those found in typical auto accident cases. Our firm has spent decades fighting for motorcyclists throughout Pennsylvania, and we bring that deep experience and strategic skill to every case we handle. If you’ve been hurt in a crash, you need a Glenside motorcycle accident lawyer who understands not only the legal system but also the unique risks and prejudices motorcyclists face on the road.

We handle a wide range of motorcycle accident cases in Glenside, including:

• Glenside Left Turn Accidents – Often caused when a vehicle turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle, failing to yield the right of way.
• Glenside Lane Splitting Accidents – Occur when a rider travels between lanes and is struck by an inattentive driver during slow or stopped traffic.
• Glenside Speeding Accidents – Caused by excessive speed from either the motorcyclist or another driver, leading to reduced reaction time and more severe impacts.
• Glenside Impaired Driving Motorcycle Accidents – Result from drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs who fail to see or react to motorcycles on the road.
• Glenside Unsafe Lane Change Accidents – Happen when drivers change lanes without signaling or checking blind spots for nearby motorcycles.
• Glenside Defective Motorcycle Accidents – Involve mechanical failure due to manufacturer defects or negligent maintenance.
• Glenside Turning or Intersection Accidents – Occur at busy junctions where drivers misjudge speed or distance, leading to broadside or T-bone collisions.
• Glenside Lane Changing Accidents – Typically involve a vehicle sideswiping a motorcycle during an improper or rushed lane change.
• Glenside Rear End Motorcycle Accidents – Especially dangerous due to the risk of ejection, even at relatively low speeds.
• Glenside Rollover Motorcycle Accidents – These are often caused by sudden turns, contact with another vehicle, or hitting road debris at speed.
• Glenside Head-On Collision Motorcycle Accidents – Among the most fatal types of motorcycle crashes, frequently occurring on two-lane roads or curves.
• Glenside Road Hazard Motorcycle Accidents – Involve poor road conditions like potholes, loose gravel, or construction zones lacking proper warning.
• And more

Each of these scenarios demands a tailored legal strategy and a deep understanding of motorcycle dynamics, rider behavior, and Pennsylvania traffic law. Our team investigates every case thoroughly, collaborates with accident reconstruction experts when needed, and ensures no detail is overlooked when building your claim.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Glenside

Motorcycle accidents often result in some of the most devastating injuries on the road. Unlike those in passenger vehicles, motorcyclists are exposed and vulnerable, making even minor collisions potentially life-altering. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we’ve represented countless riders injured due to conditions and behaviors that are entirely preventable. Understanding the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Glenside is essential—not just for awareness, but also for building a solid legal claim.

Driver Negligence

By far the most common cause of motorcycle crashes is negligence by other drivers. Motorists frequently fail to see or yield to motorcyclists, especially when making left turns or changing lanes. Some common forms of negligent driving that result in motorcycle accidents include:

• Failing to check blind spots
• Distracted driving (e.g., texting or using GPS)
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Following too closely
• Speeding or aggressive driving

These actions show a clear disregard for motorcyclists’ safety—and are often the basis of strong personal injury claims. A skilled Glenside motorcycle accident lawyer can gather witness testimony, dashcam footage, and expert analysis to prove driver fault.

Poor Road Conditions

Road maintenance plays a huge role in rider safety. Uneven pavement, potholes, loose gravel, and poorly marked construction zones can cause a motorcycle to lose control in an instant. In Glenside, roads like Church Road and Easton Road often experience high traffic and periodic disrepair, making them particularly dangerous for riders.

In cases involving road hazards, a motorcycle accident attorney in Glenside, PA, may be able to hold a government agency or construction company accountable for failing to maintain safe travel conditions.

Mechanical Failures

A mechanical defect—such as brake failure, tire blowout, or faulty steering—can quickly turn a routine ride into a nightmare. These failures may be the result of a:

• The manufacturer’s design flaw
• Improper installation of parts
• Inadequate maintenance by a mechanic

When defective parts are involved, liability may extend beyond just the rider or other motorists. Our legal team works with engineering experts to determine the root cause of mechanical issues and pursue claims against all responsible parties, including manufacturers and maintenance providers.

Critical Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Glenside

The moments following a motorcycle accident can be disorienting, painful, and emotionally overwhelming. But the decisions you make immediately after a crash can significantly impact your health, your recovery, and your legal claim. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we’ve guided countless injured riders through the chaos, starting with these essential steps for protecting your legal rights.

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Even if your injuries appear minor, always seek medical care as soon as possible. Motorcycle crashes often cause internal injuries or delayed symptoms such as concussions, spinal trauma, or soft tissue damage. Prompt treatment:

• Protects your health
• Provides documentation linking injuries to the crash
• Strengthens your legal claim

Don’t delay or skip this step—your well-being and your case depend on it.

2. Call the Police and File a Report

An official police report will serve as one of the most important pieces of evidence in your claim. It documents:

• The details of the crash
• The parties involved
• Initial statements from drivers and witnesses
• Any citations issued

Make sure you obtain a copy for your records and provide it to your Glenside motorcycle accident lawyer.

3. Document the Scene

If you are physically able, take detailed photos and videos of:

• Your motorcycle and the other vehicles
• Skid marks, debris, road signs, and traffic signals
• Visible injuries
• Weather and road conditions

Also, collect the names, contact information, and insurance details of all involved parties and any eyewitnesses. The more evidence you gather at the scene, the stronger your case will be.

4. Avoid Admitting Fault or Making Statements

Be careful with your words. Don’t admit fault at the scene—even casually. Statements like “I didn’t see them” or “I might have been going too fast” can be used against you by insurance companies later.

Wait until you've consulted with a motorcycle accident attorney in Glenside, PA, before speaking with any adjusters or giving recorded statements.

5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company—But Proceed Cautiously

Notify your insurer promptly, but stick to the facts. Do not speculate or offer opinions. Insurance companies may try to settle quickly and cheaply, especially if you're dealing with severe injuries. Let your lawyer handle the negotiations to avoid being underpaid or misled.

6. Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle laws and insurance coverage can be complicated in Pennsylvania, especially with partial fault or uninsured drivers. An experienced Glenside motorcycle accident lawyer understands how to:

• Navigate state-specific motorcycle laws
• Handle insurance policy disputes
• Prove fault using advanced accident reconstruction
• Maximize compensation for long-term injuries