Our Lawyers
Joliet Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Joliet is a bustling city with a mix of highways, suburban intersections, and growing traffic congestion. Motorcyclists must constantly stay alert to hazards that might not impact other vehicles as severely. Unfortunately, even the safest riders can find themselves in harm’s way due to the actions of others.
Motorcycle accidents in Joliet are often caused by negligent drivers who fail to check their blind spots, ignore traffic signals, or are distracted by their phones. Road conditions, such as potholes or loose gravel, can also be more dangerous for motorcycles than for cars. In some cases, defective motorcycle parts or inadequate signage can contribute to a crash.
The consequences of a motorcycle accident can be life-changing. Unlike those in cars, riders lack the protection of metal frames, airbags, or seat belts. This means injuries can be catastrophic, ranging from broken bones and road rash to traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage. Medical bills can pile up quickly, and the recovery process may be long and difficult.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, you don’t have to face these challenges alone. Briskman Briskman & Greenberg is dedicated to helping Joliet riders get back on their feet and obtain the compensation they deserve.
Why You Need a Joliet Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
After a motorcycle accident, you might wonder if you really need a lawyer. Can’t you just file an insurance claim yourself? In reality, insurance companies are businesses looking to protect their bottom line. They often try to minimize payouts or even deny valid claims, especially when it comes to motorcycle accidents. And just like an experienced car accident lawyer or truck accident lawyer, a motorcycle accident lawyer knows how to navigate the process to get the compensation you deserve.
A motorcycle accident lawyer in Joliet knows the tactics insurers use to shift blame onto riders. For example, they may argue that a biker was “reckless” simply for choosing to ride a motorcycle or claim that protective gear would have prevented all injuries. Without strong legal representation, you could end up with far less than you need to cover your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
A skilled attorney will:
- Gather evidence from the scene, including police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage
- Work with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies, so you don’t have to
- Ensure you meet all deadlines under Illinois law, including the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit
Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you during your recovery. A dedicated Joliet motorcycle accident lawyer can fight for your best interests every step of the way.
Common Causes and Types of Motorcycle Accidents
Every motorcycle accident is unique, but many share common causes. Understanding these can help you recognize what may have led to your crash and how liability might be established.
Common Causes:
- Driver Negligence: The most frequent cause is car or truck drivers failing to yield when turning left, changing lanes without checking mirrors, or following too closely.
- Distracted Driving: Phones, GPS systems, and even in-car conversations can take a driver’s attention off the road.
- Drunk or Impaired Driving: Alcohol and drugs reduce reaction time, making accidents more likely.
- Hazardous Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, and debris can cause a rider to lose control.
- Defective Motorcycle Parts: Faulty brakes, tires, or other components can lead to mechanical failure.
Types of Accidents:
- Left-Turn Collisions: A vehicle making a left turn in front of a motorcycle is a leading cause of crashes.
- Rear-End Accidents: Motorcyclists struck from behind often suffer severe injuries.
- Lane Splitting Incidents: Though not always legal, some riders split lanes in heavy traffic, increasing the risk of being sideswiped.
- Single-Vehicle Accidents: Sometimes, the crash is due to road hazards or mechanical failure rather than another driver.
Knowing the cause and type of your accident helps your lawyer build a strong case and pursue the compensation you need to move forward.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Motorcycle Accident?
After a serious motorcycle accident, your focus should be on healing—not worrying about financial stress. Illinois law allows injured riders to seek compensation for a wide range of losses, including both economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages typically cover your direct financial losses. These may include:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, medication, physical therapy)
- Future medical care, if your injuries are long-term or permanent
- Lost wages during your recovery
- Reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous job
Non-economic damages address the more personal impacts of your injury, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring or disfigurement
In some rare cases, if your accident was caused by someone’s egregious misconduct, you may also be eligible for punitive damages designed to punish the wrongdoer.
Calculating the full value of your claim is complex. Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements that don’t account for the long-term impact of your injuries. That’s why working with Briskman Briskman & Greenberg can make a significant difference. We meticulously assess every aspect of your case to ensure you receive maximum compensation.
How Briskman Briskman & Greenberg Supports Joliet Motorcycle Accident Victims
Choosing the right lawyer can make all the difference in your motorcycle accident claim. At Briskman Briskman & Greenberg, we treat our clients like family. We know that after a serious accident, you need more than just legal advice—you need compassion, clear communication, and relentless advocacy.
Here’s what sets our team apart:
- Personalized Attention: We take the time to listen to your story and understand your unique needs. You won’t be just another case number.
- Proven Results: Our firm has a strong track record of recovering substantial settlements and verdicts for injured motorcyclists in Joliet and throughout Illinois.
- No Upfront Fees: We work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay nothing unless we win your case.
- Local Knowledge: As a firm serving Joliet and surrounding communities, we know the local courts, judges, and insurance adjusters.
From your first consultation to the final resolution of your case, we are with you every step of the way. Our goal is to shoulder the legal burdens so you can focus on your recovery.
FAQ About Motorcycle Accidents in Joliet, IL
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Joliet?
First, seek medical attention—even if you feel okay, some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. Call the police to report the accident and get an official report. If possible, take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Collect contact information from witnesses and exchange insurance details with the other driver. Finally, contact a Joliet motorcycle accident lawyer before speaking to insurance companies.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Illinois?
In Illinois, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, there are exceptions that can shorten or extend this period. To protect your rights, it’s best to consult with a lawyer as soon as possible after your accident.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Yes. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you were less than 50% at fault, you could still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you were more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover damages.
How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer at Briskman Briskman & Greenberg?
We handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. You only pay if we successfully recover money for you. This allows you to get quality legal representation without financial risk.
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