Bloomington Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident Caused by a Negligent Driver?
Motorcycle riders face unique risks on Illinois roads. Unlike drivers in enclosed vehicles, bikers are more exposed to severe injuries when an accident happens. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle crash, you deserve strong legal advocacy. At Haxel Law, our dedicated team fights for the rights of injured riders in Bloomington and across Illinois. We understand the challenges motorcyclists face after an accident, from physical recovery to mounting medical bills, and we are committed to pursuing the compensation you need.
Illinois Motorcycle Laws
Motorcycle riders in Illinois must follow specific rules of the road. Understanding these laws can help protect your rights and ensure compliance:
- Helmet Law: Illinois is one of the few states without a mandatory motorcycle helmet law. However, helmets greatly reduce the risk of serious head injuries.
- Eye Protection: Riders are required to wear protective eyewear, such as goggles or a face shield, unless their bike is equipped with a windscreen.
- Licensing: Motorcyclists must hold a valid Class M license or motorcycle endorsement to operate legally.
- Traffic Laws: Riders must obey all traffic signals, speed limits, and lane usage laws. Lane splitting—riding between lanes of traffic—is not legal in Illinois.
- Insurance Requirements: Motorcycle owners must carry minimum liability insurance, just like other motor vehicle drivers.
Even if you follow every law, negligent drivers still put riders at risk. When accidents happen, legal representation can make all the difference in securing fair compensation.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle crashes often result from another driver’s negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving: Motorists using phones or failing to pay attention often overlook motorcycles.
- Left-Turn Accidents: Many crashes occur when a car turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
- Failure to Yield: Drivers may ignore traffic signals or fail to yield the right-of-way.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug use behind the wheel puts motorcyclists at extreme risk.
- Dangerous Road Conditions: Potholes, loose gravel, or poorly marked construction zones can be deadly for bikers.
Identifying the cause of your accident is key to building a strong legal claim. Haxel Law thoroughly investigates each case to hold negligent parties accountable.
Common Motorcycle Crash Injuries
Motorcyclists are highly vulnerable in crashes, often suffering catastrophic injuries. Some of the most common include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, riders may suffer concussions or severe brain trauma.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These can result in partial or complete paralysis.
- Broken Bones: Collisions often cause fractures in arms, legs, or ribs.
- Road Rash: Severe skin abrasions can lead to infections and scarring.
- Internal Injuries: Organ damage and internal bleeding are common in high-impact crashes.
- Amputations: In severe cases, limb loss may occur.
These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, or lifelong care. Our firm fights to secure compensation for both immediate and long-term needs.
Call (217) 215-4166 to schedule a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How Much Is My PI Claim Worth?
Determining the value of your claim can be complex. It can be easy to overlook many types of compensation available to you, especially without an in-depth understanding of Illinois law. Seeking legal representation is essential to identify liable parties and calculate the total damages in your claim.
While pinpointing the exact value of your claim requires a thorough case evaluation from our attorneys, you should know that you are entitled to compensation for all losses incurred in the accident, including future costs resulting from your injuries. Our firm can negotiate effectively on your behalf to pursue the full compensation available to you.
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How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Claim?
It depends. The timeframe for settling a personal injury claim will vary based on unique factors, such as whether the insurance company is willing to make a fair offer, any potential liability disputes, and whether your case goes to trial. Many claims are settled out of court, but others can take more time to resolve. However, taking longer to settle isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
While preparing for potential litigation may extend the duration of your case, it can also mean the difference between recovering maximum compensation and walking away with much less than you deserve. Our attorneys are familiar with insurance companies to pursue the fastest path to resolution without compromising the just settlement you need to focus on your recovery.
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Should I Talk to the Insurance Adjuster?After an accident, you should avoid discussing the incident with any insurance representative without your lawyer present. Having your attorney speak directly with the insurance adjuster on your behalf is typically best to protect your rights. If you do end up talking with the insurance adjuster, you only need to provide basic information, such as your name, address, and so on. Don’t share any information that may be used against you, such as apologizing or admitting fault.
Compensation Available for Injured Riders
After a motorcycle accident in Bloomington, you may be entitled to recover damages for both economic and non-economic losses, such as:
- Medical Expenses: Emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future treatment.
- Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery, as well as reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to work.
- Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of your motorcycle and personal belongings.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, surviving family members may pursue compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.
At Haxel Law, we calculate the full scope of your losses to pursue maximum compensation.
Motorcycle Accident FAQs
Frequently asked questions about motorcycle accident claims include:
What should I do after a motorcycle accident in Bloomington, IL?
Seek medical attention immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Report the crash to law enforcement, gather witness information, and take photos if possible. Then, contact a motorcycle accident lawyer before speaking to insurance companies.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Illinois?
In Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. Filing after this deadline may prevent you from recovering compensation.
Can I recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you are less than 51% at fault, you may recover damages, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Why should I hire a Bloomington motorcycle accident lawyer?
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts to injured riders. A skilled lawyer will investigate your case, negotiate with insurers, and, if necessary, represent you in court to fight for fair compensation.
How much does it cost to hire Haxel Law?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees. We only get paid if we win your case.
Call Our Bloomington Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
Motorcycle accidents can change your life in an instant. You should not have to face the aftermath alone. At Haxel Law, we are committed to protecting the rights of injured riders and their families. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or pursuing litigation, we fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, contact our Bloomington office for answers and guidance.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"I will definitely use Haxel Law again!"I’m so grateful for the legal assistance I received from Haxel Law. Martin is extremely knowledgeable and guided me throughout the process. I recommend Martin Haxel. He’s no nonsense and gets the job done. If needed I will definitely use Haxel Law again.- Sally B.
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"Thank you, Martin."When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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"Highly Recommend"Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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"No One Better"I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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"What a great experience!"I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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"Made Everything Easy for Me"His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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"Martin Truly Cares About You"I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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"Marty was great to work with!"He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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"Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.