Newport News Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

After suffering injuries in a Newport News motorcycle crash, you may face a growing stack of medical bills and financial problems from missed work. If a negligent driver caused your injuries, a Newport News motorcycle accident lawyer could help you seek the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.

I’m Ed Atkinson, and as a knowledgeable Newport News personal injury lawyer, I understand the laws affecting injured riders in Virginia. I could help you win compensation for a wide range of damages. Unlike other attorneys who may not even speak with you until your case goes to trial, I will remain personally involved in your motorcycle accident claim from day one.

Contact Atkinson Law now to schedule a no-cost case evaluation.

Injuries You May Sustain in a Motorcycle Crash

Motorcycle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, ranging from minor scrapes and bruises to severe injuries and, tragically, fatalities.

Common injuries we see in motorcycle accidents include:

• Head trauma: Head injuries are a leading cause of death in motorcycle crashes. A traumatic brain injury can sometimes permanently impact a person’s physical and cognitive abilities, placing tremendous strain on the entire family.
• Limb injuries: Motorcycle accidents frequently cause arm and leg injuries like broken bones, dislocations, and even amputations. Such injuries can be debilitating, necessitating costly surgeries and an extended, painful recovery process.
• Biker’s arm: Compression of a motorcyclist’s arm during an accident can lead to nerve damage and, in severe cases, paralysis. The resulting loss of mobility and function can range from mild to severe.
• Soft tissue damage: Injuries affecting muscles and other soft tissues can be excruciatingly painful and create the need for extensive physical therapy.
• Road rash: This common motorcycle accident injury occurs when a rider’s unprotected skin comes into contact with the road’s concrete or asphalt surface. In some cases, road rash can result in nerve damage and dangerous infections.
• Internal injuries: Internal bleeding, punctured lungs, or internal organ damage may not be immediately apparent and can lead to permanent harm or death if left untreated.
• Spinal cord damage: In some instances, motorcycle crashes result in spinal cord injuries, which can lead to partial or complete paralysis. A skilled Newport News spinal cord injury lawyer from our firm can help you in securing the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

These are just a few examples of the injuries sustained by motorcycle riders in accidents. Since some injuries may go unnoticed due to the adrenaline rush after a crash, it is vital to seek medical attention. Getting the treatment you need is important for both your well-being and your personal injury case.

I Will Handle the Insurance Companies for You

Many injured victims find the insurance claims process confusing. Adjusters know you are in a vulnerable position and will not hesitate to take advantage of you. They may try to minimize the value of your claim or dismiss it to increase their company’s profit. However, you don’t have to face the insurance adjusters alone.

When you work with me as your Newport News motorcycle accident lawyer, I will handle all communication with insurance adjusters on your behalf. By letting me do the talking, you can avoid saying something claims adjusters could use against you.

While negotiation is the go-to approach for settling these cases, sometimes a fair settlement agreement cannot be reached. Should the need arise, I am fully prepared to take your claim to court. As an experienced trial lawyer, I will present a compelling case before a judge and jury.

Recoverable Damages After a Motorcycle Crash in Newport News

The impact of a motorcycle accident is often severe due to the lack of protection when riding a motorcycle. Riders often sustain catastrophic injuries like spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), and even fatalities.

As a motorcycle accident victim, you could claim the following damages:

• Medical expenses
• Bodily injuries
• Disfigurement and any associated embarrassment
• Loss of enjoyment of life due to a permanent disability
• Lost wages and the loss of future earning potential
• Property damage
• Physical pain and mental anguish

I will assess the full extent of your losses and use all available evidence to strengthen your claim. As your attorney, I will collect the necessary documents to prove both economic and non-economic damages, allowing you to focus on healing.

Your Motorcycle Accident Case May Qualify for Punitive Damages

Different from compensatory damages, punitive damages aim to punish the defendant for their behavior and discourage others from engaging in similar conduct. Generally, you must prove that the at-fault party showed an unlawful disregard for you when seeking these additional damages.

An incident involving a drunk driver is an example of a situation that qualifies for punitive damages. If the motorist who hit you had a blood-alcohol content (BAC) of 0.15%, their actions show a conscious disregard for the safety of others on the road. Even if their BAC is lower, I could still get them under something called “common law.”

Maximize Your Compensation With an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Building my own personal injury law firm gave me the freedom to provide a new kind of legal service that focuses on responsiveness. Unlike larger firms, I prioritize personalized attention for each injured rider I represent. Every motorcycle accident case is unique, and I will tailor my approach to meet your needs.

At Atkinson Law, your case is more than just a number. By maintaining a smaller caseload, I can devote more time and attention to each client, ensuring no detail goes unnoticed.

I have a proven track record of successful case results, and I am ready to put my skills to work in your case.

Pursue a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Crash in Newport News

The sudden loss of a loved one can change your life forever. If you recently lost someone due to negligence, I understand that you may be feeling a profound sense of injustice, and I want to help you find closure.

After losing a loved one in a fatal motorcycle accident, you may have the right to take legal action against the at-fault party. A wrongful death claim allows you to hold the responsible party accountable and recover monetary compensation.

Surviving family members of the deceased accident victim could claim the following wrongful death damages:

• Mental anguish
• Loss of the decedent’s income
• Expenses for the victim’s medical care
• Funeral and burial expenses

Pursuing a wrongful death claim can help with final expenses and allow you to rebuild your life. While no amount of money will fully heal the emotional pain of losing a loved one, taking legal action could provide some measure of justice.

File Your Civil Claim Against the At-Fault Driver Within Virginia’s Statute of Limitations

The Virginia statute of limitations sets a time limit for filing civil lawsuits, which varies depending on the nature of the case.

Virginia’s deadline for personal injury claims, including motor vehicle accidents, is two years from the incident date. However, certain exceptions could alter this deadline. If you lost a loved one in a fatal collision, you have a two-year time limit from the date of their death. 

Failing to file a claim before the deadline may result in losing your right to seek compensation. Call my law offices as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the prescribed time limits.

Free Consultation With a Newport News Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

As an injured rider, you may feel overwhelmed when dealing with the aftermath of a crash. However, you do not have to go through this difficult time alone. As an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Newport News, VA, I will help you navigate the legal landscape.

Trust me to assess the value of your claim and pursue fair compensation from the liable party or their insurer. You won’t owe me a penny unless I get you a settlement or court award, so there are no upfront costs to worry about. Contact Atkinson Law today to schedule a free case review.