Richmond Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

After surviving a motorcycle accident in Richmond, VA, you may face high medical costs, lost income from missed work, and a long and painful recovery. When a negligent driver hits you or makes you crash, they should be held accountable for the harm they cause. That’s where a Richmond personal injury lawyer can help.

I’m Ed Atkinson, and as a motorcycle accident lawyer serving Richmond, VA, I help injured riders seek the money they need to recover from their injuries and reclaim their lives post-accident. Contact Atkinson Law today to schedule your free consultation.

A Richmond Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Who Understands Insurance Companies

Handling your own insurance claim can be tricky, especially when the other party’s insurer is trying to reduce your settlement or deny your claim. Insurance adjusters may seem friendly, but they don’t usually have your best interests at heart.

The adjuster is hoping to get you talking so you’ll say something they can use to blame you for the accident or downplay your injuries. If that doesn’t work, they’ll try to rush you into accepting a low settlement before you talk to a lawyer and find out how much your case is worth. 

I have a lot of experience with insurance companies and know how to counter their tactics. As your Richmond motorcycle accident attorney, I will take over communications with insurers and opposing parties so you don’t accidentally jeopardize your claim. If a fair settlement agreement cannot be reached through negotiations, I will take your case to court.

Available Damages for Richmond Motorcycle Crash Victims

Compared to typical car accidents, motorcycle crashes tend to be more catastrophic due to the lack of protection while riding. Motorcycle crash victims may suffer from severe road rash, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and amputations.

As an injured motorcycle accident victim in Virginia, you may be entitled to various damages, including:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical costs
• Physical pain and mental anguish
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earning potential
• Disfigurement and any associated embarrassment
• Property damage
• Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was killed in the crash)

Whether your injuries are minor or severe, hiring a lawyer improves your chances of securing a fair settlement or award. As an experienced Virginia attorney, I will leave no stone unturned when calculating your damages and building your case. 

Exploring Potential for Punitive Damages

Punitive damages punish the defendant and discourage reckless behavior. Typically, you or your attorney must be able to show that the liable party blatantly disregarded your safety to qualify for these additional damages. 

Incidents involving drunk driving or racing may lead to a court awarding punitive damages. These actions show that the defendant did not care about the safety of others on the road.

As an experienced drunk driving accident lawyer in Richmond, I will seek punitive damages to increase the total amount of money you receive if one of these situations applies. 

Seeking Justice After a Fatal Motorcycle Accident

If you lost a loved one in a fatal motorcycle crash, I extend my deepest condolences. The sudden passing of a family member is one of the worst experiences a human being can face. As an attorney who handles both personal injury and wrongful death cases, I’ve seen firsthand how difficult the aftermath of a fatal accident can be.

As a surviving family member, you may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death award. I’m here to guide you through this complicated process, offering my support in your pursuit of justice for your loved one.

Potential wrongful death damages in a wrongful death case include the following:

• Funeral expenses
• Emotional distress
• Loss of the deceased’s financial support
• Medical expenses incurred by the victim

While no amount of money can ease the pain of losing a family member, winning a wrongful death award can help you honor your loved one’s memory and rebuild your life. 

Virginia’s Time Limit for Filing Your Motorcycle Accident Injury Claim

Most motorcycle accident claims are settled outside of court, but as an experienced trial lawyer, I’m prepared to go the distance in your case if needed. Virginia, like other states, has a statute of limitations that governs the time you have to sue the at-fault party.

For Virginia personal injury cases, including motorcycle accidents, you usually have two years from the date of the incident to file a claim, as outlined in the Code of Virginia § 8.01-243. Similarly, wrongful death claims must be filed within two years of the date of death. Certain exceptions could affect the deadline.

While two years is a long time, waiting is never a good idea. If you contact me soon after the accident, it will be easier for me to secure fresh evidence, and I’ll have more time to build a case that maximizes your settlement or court award. I handle cases on contingency, which means you won’t owe me anything unless we win your case.

Contact Atkinson Law Today for a Free Case Evaluation

After a life-altering motorcycle accident, navigating the insurance claims process and possible legal issues can be overwhelming. However, you’re not alone. As an experienced Richmond motorcycle accident lawyer, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

I can help you understand the full value of your claim and pursue the money you deserve for all you’ve been through. Don’t let an insurance company take advantage of you while you’re vulnerable. I can handle your case while you relax and recover from your injuries.

Contact Atkinson Law today to schedule your free case evaluation.