Alberta Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents often involve a significant disparity in force between the motorcycle and the other vehicle involved. This can result in severe injuries for the rider, including:

• Road rash: This painful condition occurs when the rider’s skin scrapes against the pavement during a crash.
• Broken bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, and collarbone are common motorcycle accident injuries.
• Spinal cord injuries: These catastrophic injuries can lead to paralysis and a lifetime of challenges.
• Head injuries: Riders are more vulnerable to head injuries due to the lack of a protective enclosure around the head. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have a profound impact on a person’s cognitive and emotional functioning.
• Internal injuries: Internal bleeding and organ damage can occur in motorcycle accidents, requiring immediate medical attention.
• Psychological trauma: The shock and fear associated with a motorcycle accident can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

Motorcycle riders often face unfair biases from insurance companies and even the legal system. Some may portray riders as reckless or irresponsible, attempting to downplay the severity of your injuries or shift blame for the accident.

Grover Law Firm understands these biases and fights back against them. We will work diligently to:

• Gather evidence that accurately portrays the accident: This may include police reports, witness statements, accident scene photos, and motorcycle maintenance records.
• Challenge unfair assumptions: We will counter any attempts to blame you for the accident and build a strong case that highlights the negligence of the other party.
• Fight for maximum compensation: We will not settle for lowball offers and will negotiate aggressively to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve based on the full extent of your losses.

Motorcycle accidents can occur due to various factors, including:

• Car driver negligence: Common causes include car drivers failing to yield the right of way, turning left in front of a motorcycle, or driving while distracted.
• Unsafe lane changes: Car drivers changing lanes without checking their blind spots can lead to vehicle accidents, often involving motorcycles.
• Speeding: Excessive speed increases the severity of motorcycle accidents and reduces the rider’s ability to react to sudden hazards.
• Drunk driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a significant threat to motorcycle riders.
• Poor road conditions: Uneven pavement, potholes, or debris on the road can cause motorcycle accidents.
• Motorcycle defects: Manufacturing flaws or mechanical failures in the motorcycle itself can contribute to accidents.

In Alberta, the time limitations for filing a motorcycle accident claim are governed by the Limitations Act and the Municipal Government Act. Under the Limitations Act, claimants generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury or property damage. If the accident involves a municipality, the Municipal Government Act requires that a written notice of the claim be given within 10 days of the accident. Failing to adhere to these deadlines can result in losing the right to pursue compensation. Consulting a legal professional promptly is crucial to ensure compliance with these time limits.

Thankfully, the provincial healthcare, employee benefits, and insurance plans system covers many medical expenses. However, there are many costs that are not covered by the government or other plans. Some of these costs include physiotherapy, massages, or acupuncture, as well as costs associated with the impact the sustained injuries have on your life and ability to continue working afterward.

In many cases, victims of motorcycle accidents suffer a loss of future potential earnings or loss of income, which can be included in a claim for damages.

In Alberta, motor vehicle accidents involving motorcycles can be particularly complex when it comes to determining fault. Under the province’s Contributory Negligence Act, a motorcycle rider who is partially at fault for an accident may still pursue a personal injury claim, but their compensation will be reduced in proportion to their level of responsibility. For instance, if the rider is found to be 25% at fault, they can recover 75% of the damages they are entitled to.

A personal injury lawyer plays a crucial role in these motorcycle accident cases, gathering evidence to minimize the degree of fault attributed to you. This could involve reviewing accident reports, analyzing traffic camera footage, and consulting with experts to challenge unfair assumptions about rider behavior.

So, as a small conclusion here, even if you share fault in a motorcycle accident, car accident, or truck accident, you deserve fair compensation for your injuries, lost income, and other damages.

Many motorcycle accident victims worry about affording legal representation, but most personal injury lawyers including the ones at Grover Law Firm, work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay any legal fees unless your case is successful.

By working with a lawyer on a contingency basis, you can focus on recovery while your attorney handles the complexities of your motorcycle accident case. They will investigate the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your rights to secure fair compensation.

At Grover Law Firm, we also offer a free consultation to evaluate your case and explain how the contingency fee arrangement works. Don’t let financial concerns stop you from pursuing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for expert guidance on personal injury claims.

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Alberta?

The time limit for filing a motorcycle accident claim can vary depending on the circumstances of the crash and the parties involved. Missing important deadlines could jeopardize your right to compensation, so it is important to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident.

What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?

If you are physically able, move to a safe location and call 911 if anyone is injured. Seek medical attention, report the accident to police, document the scene with photographs, gather witness information, and avoid discussing fault with other parties. Contacting a lawyer early can help protect your legal rights and preserve valuable evidence.

What if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle accident?

Being partially responsible for a motorcycle accident does not necessarily prevent you from recovering compensation. Alberta follows a contributory negligence system, which means compensation may still be available even if you share some responsibility for the collision.

Can I recover compensation if I was not wearing all recommended motorcycle gear?

Potentially, yes. While protective gear can reduce the severity of injuries, failing to wear certain equipment does not automatically prevent you from pursuing compensation. Every case is unique and should be evaluated based on its specific facts.

What compensation can I recover after a motorcycle accident?

Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, future loss of earning capacity, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, future care expenses, and other accident-related losses.

Why are motorcycle accident injuries often more severe than car accident injuries?

Motorcyclists have significantly less protection than occupants of passenger vehicles. Even at relatively low speeds, riders can suffer serious injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, road rash, internal injuries, and permanent disabilities.

What if the driver who caused my motorcycle accident was uninsured?

You may still have options for compensation through your own insurance coverage or other available sources. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help identify all potential avenues for financial recovery.

Will my motorcycle accident case go to court?

Most motorcycle accident claims are resolved through negotiations with insurance companies. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, Grover Law Firm is prepared to pursue your claim through litigation when necessary.

What if poor road conditions caused my motorcycle accident?

Road hazards such as potholes, loose gravel, construction debris, uneven pavement, or inadequate road maintenance can contribute to serious motorcycle crashes. In some situations, government entities, contractors, or other parties may be held responsible for dangerous roadway conditions.

How much is my motorcycle accident case worth?

The value of a motorcycle accident claim depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, future care needs, and the overall impact the accident has had on your life. An experienced lawyer can provide a more accurate assessment after reviewing your case.

How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?

Grover Law Firm handles motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis. This means there are no upfront legal fees, and you only pay legal fees if compensation is successfully recovered on your behalf.

Can family members pursue compensation after a fatal motorcycle accident?

Yes. If a loved one is killed in a motorcycle accident caused by another party’s negligence, eligible family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. Compensation may be available for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and other damages recognized under Alberta law.

Our lawyers at Grover Law Firm have more than 20 years of experience in successful personal injury claims. Our lawyers in Calgary, Yellowknife and Edmonton understand how insurance companies work, how they approach claims, and how you can receive the maximum compensation. Our experienced and skilled motorcycle accident lawyers near you will work to build you the strongest case possible. Please contact us at (403) 253-1029.