Manassas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Manassas, VA Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The costs of motorcycle accidents are often significant. The injuries themselves are often severe, and managing them can create substantial medical bills. This is on top of the damage to the bike and probably missing work.

These costs, in addition to the psychological impact, are the responsibility of whoever caused the accident, and a Manassas motorcycle accident lawyer can help you hold them accountable. The process of getting what you’re owed can sometimes be challenging and complex but, at Whitlock Law, LLC, we have experience that you can benefit from.

Our primary business over the years has been helping victims of motor vehicle accidents in Manassas, including motorcycle accidents, get the restitution they deserve. Whether by settlement or litigation, our Manassas personal injury lawyers can help you pursue compensation for your injuries.

What Does a Manassas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do?

Broadly speaking, a Manassas motorcycle accident attorney is responsible for seeking fair compensation for the costs that you’ve incurred as a result of someone else’s negligence. However, to do that, there are a few primary actions that we can engage in:

• Investigation: The process of seeking restitution for your injuries begins with an investigation of your accident. We need to understand which parties are rightfully liable for the accident and gather evidence that can help prove that in court, should it be necessary.

Additionally, we can also gather evidence that defends you against the accusation that you were liable for the accident, as this could be used as a way to prevent you from receiving compensation.

• Negotiation: Often, negotiating a settlement, rather than going to court, can be a better option for both parties. However, it’s critical that the settlement be on terms that make sense for you.

Having a lawyer negotiate for you can typically lead to better settlement terms. The opposition, recognizing the legitimate possibility of going to court, will likely treat the situation with a bit more urgency.

• Litigation: There will still be some situations where an agreement that is fair for all parties won’t be found. If that’s the case, though, we are prepared to take the case to court and seek the compensation that you deserve.

What Is Compensated in a Manassas Motorcycle Accident Claim?

The compensation in a motorcycle accident claim in Manassas, VA is meant to cover only those costs that are a direct result of the injuries that were suffered in the accident. As you begin to incur these costs, it’s important that you keep a good record of your bills, receipts, and anything else that documents your costs. This can be used to justify the compensation that you’re seeking.

The compensation you do receive will typically fall under two forms of damages:

• Economic Damages: The costs that have a clear financial component, such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage, are all compensated through economic damages. If your injuries are severe enough that they will require long-term treatment, or if you are unable to return to the same level of work that you had prior to the accident, then those future medical costs and lost earning capacity will be compensated as well.
• Non-Economic Damages: For costs that don’t have a clear financial element but are more psychological or emotional in nature, there are non-economic damages. These address issues like pain and suffering or mental anguish. While not a solution, the money may provide an indirect benefit and serve as a recognition of the injustice you’ve suffered.

Will Contributory Negligence Impact the Claim?

Contributory negligence rules apply to all personal injury claims, of which a motorcycle accident claim is a subcategory. They provide the defendant with the opportunity to argue and demonstrate that the plaintiff was at least partially responsible for the injuries that they suffered.

If the defendant can successfully argue that you were also at fault, even in the most minute way, you could be barred from collecting any damages. This makes contributory negligence one of the most important aspects of a civil trial. It is also one of the reasons why it’s imperative that you work with an experienced Manassas motorcycle accident lawyer.

We understand how these claims are argued and how to defend against them, thus preserving your right to collect damages.

Should You Settle the Claim or Go to Court?

Settling a claim does have certain advantages over taking a claim to court. It may mean settling for a little less money than you would receive if your court case went perfectly. How much less will, of course, depend on the offer we are able to negotiate for.

Generally, there are two major benefits of considering a settlement:

• Time: Going to trial is a lengthy process. It could mean that years will pass before you receive the funds you need. A settlement, though, could be reached quickly if both sides are motivated to get the process done and avoid a trial. In most cases, you’ll receive the funds within 30 days of the agreement being finalized.
• Risk: When a claim goes to trial, there is always an element of risk in the process. The court may rule against you, possibly under Virginia’s contributory negligence rules. While you could get more from taking the case to court, there’s also a chance that you could end up with nothing. A settlement, however, allows you to feel assured that you will receive what’s been agreed upon.

Get Restitution After Your Motorcycle Accident

When you are injured in a motorcycle accident because of another party’s negligence, the costs that you incur are legally their responsibility. However, getting that compensation can often prove to be a challenge. Working with a Manassas motorcycle accident lawyer can give you a better opportunity to get the restitution you’re owed.

At Whitlock Law, LLC, we have a depth of experience and understanding of motorcycle accidents that we are able to bring to our clients’ cases. We understand how to work with the insurance companies or other parties involved to find a fair settlement.

If, though, that simply isn’t possible, we have no hesitation in pursuing litigation for our clients as well. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident and want to hear how we may be able to help your situation, contact us today.