Cleveland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Cleveland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycling is a popular sport and mode of transportation in the Cleveland area – especially in the warmer months. Riding in Cleveland can be hectic due to heavy traffic and negligent drivers. But northeast Ohio is known for its winding roads and beautiful scenery.

In this area, motorcyclists can enjoy riding in both urban and rural settings. At Elk & Elk, our motorcycle accident lawyers have been representing accident victims in Cleveland and across Ohio for decades. To schedule a time to meet with one of our Cleveland motorcycle accident attorneys, please call 1-800-ELK-OHIO or email us.


Motorcycle Accident Information Center


How Our Cleveland Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Elk & Elk Can Help You

Elk & Elk Cleveland personal injury attorneys have represented numerous motorcycle accident victims, and we have seen firsthand how devastating these injuries can be. Our lawyers will work with the insurance companies and fight to get you maximum compensation after your accident. When an accident occurs, it is important for victims to understand their legal rights and options and contact our Cleveland motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.

Ohio motorcyclists understand the risks associated with riding. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 80 percent of motorcycle accidents result in injury or death to the person riding the motorcycle.

Elk & Elk Co., Ltd: Motorcycle Accident Case Results

Motorcycle accident FAQs

I wasn’t wearing a helmet: Can I still file a personal injury claim?

Yes. Not wearing a helmet does not exclude you or limit your legal rights. Talk to a Cleveland motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible about your options after a motorcycle accident that did not involve helmet use.

Can motorcycle passengers file a claim?

Yes. An individual injured as a passenger on a motorcycle involved in an accident can file a claim against the at-fault driver.

My insurance company wants me to quickly settle my claim. Should I accept its offer?

Your insurance company will try to settle your claim quickly, but the amount it offers may be much less than your claim is worth – and much less than you need.

It is advisable to speak to a Cleveland motorcycle accident attorney in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident to protect your rights and help you seek the compensation you need to move on with your life.

I lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident. Can I pursue a claim?

In Ohio, the spouse, parents, or children of someone who died in a motorcycle accident (or any other accident) can pursue compensation through a wrongful death claim. Other family members may also be eligible if they can demonstrate that they have suffered financially because of the loss.

What is the statute of limitations for motorcycle accident claims in Ohio?

Family members have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. However, it is advisable to act promptly in the aftermath of an accident. More evidence may be available immediately following the accident, which an attorney can begin building your case upon.

Is lane splitting legal in Cleveland?

No, lane splitting is not legal in Ohio. Lane splitting refers to the act of maneuvering a bicycle or motorcycle between two vehicles on the highway. If you are caught lane-splitting in Ohio, you may receive a traffic citation or fine for dangerous operation of a motor vehicle.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Cleveland

One of the biggest threats to the safety of motorcyclists is other motorists who engage in dangerous practices including:

  • Weaving in and out of lanes
  • Cutting in front of motorcycles
  • Failing to use turn signals
  • Tailgating
  • Sudden braking
  • Opening car doors in front of motorcycles
  • Drunk driving and distracted driving

Intersections are especially dangerous for motorcycles in Cleveland. Motorists may fail to look out for motorcycles and may pass through an intersection where a motorcyclist has no time to react or brake, resulting in a collision.

For more information see our interactive map and study: Most dangerous intersections in Cleveland

Another dangerous scenario is one in which motorcyclists ride in inclement weather. The motorcyclist must be on high alert, but this is not always enough to stop a collision in which another motorist could not see the motorcyclist because of reduced visibility in bad weather.

Additionally, making turns can be dangerous for motorcyclists, as motorists may simply not be paying attention. A common scenario is one in which a motorist is making a left turn – coming out of a driveway, for example – and fails to see a motorcyclist.

Regardless of the cause of the accident, whenever a motorcyclist is confronted with the power and size of a motor vehicle, the motorcyclist is at a disadvantage.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

One reason motorcycle accident injuries are so severe is because the rider is often ejected from the motorcycle upon impact. Even if the motorcyclist is wearing a helmet and protective clothing, the injuries can be catastrophic. Injuries to the neck, back, and spinal cord are common. And unfortunately, we have seen many fatal motorcycle collisions. If you lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you may have grounds for a wrongful death claim.

Can I Get Compensation For My Injuries?

Our Cleveland motorcycle accident lawyers help accident victims seek maximum compensation after suffering all types of serious injuries. We account for the short- and long-term expenses associated with these accidents, which may include:

  • Hospital bills
  • Physical therapy
  • Rehabilitation
  • Lost wages
  • Funeral expenses in cases of wrongful death

Motorcyclists and defensive driving in Cleveland

Motorcyclists in Cleveland enjoy riding along the shores of Lake Erie, through the winding roads of the Cleveland Metroparks, and beyond. Just 20 miles south of Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley National Park draws motorcyclists from around the region to explore the scenic area.

Whether commuting or leisurely riding, motorcyclists know all too well the challenges of sharing the road with other motorists.

As a matter of survival, many motorcyclists engage in defensive driving. Staying alert and taking extra precautions while riding can help reduce the risk of a collision. Such precautions include:

  • Paying extra attention at intersections
  • Looking before changing lanes
  • Assuming a vehicle driver doesn’t see the motorcyclist
  • Being vigilant in dangerous weather conditions
  • Staying visible by wearing reflective clothing, varying speed and staying out of blind spots

Even when motorcyclists take all safety precautions, accidents can happen. Our attorneys are here for you after you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident – or after you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal crash.

Contact a Cleveland Motorcycle Accident Attorney

After an accident, you may have many questions: How will I pay my medical bills? The accident was caused by a negligent motorist – how do I hold him or her responsible? Do I have to deal with my insurance company alone?

We invite you to contact the law firm of Elk & Elk to schedule a no-cost consultation, where we can answer questions about your accident. Call (216) 313-9774 or complete our online contact form to schedule a time to meet. We have offices in Cleveland and Mayfield Heights, and we can travel to meet you if you are unable to come to our office.


Client Review: 5/5 ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

My peace of mind was more important in the end, than the dollar amount. Matt is exceptional at guiding an individual down the path of reason.
-Brian
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