Can a Motorcycle Passenger File a Claim in a DUI Accident?

If you were in a DUI accident as a motorcycle passenger, you have the right to file a claim for compensation. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you file your claim so you can recover the compensation you need.

Our team of drunk driving accident lawyers in Phoenix explains how you can file a claim in a DUI accident as a motorcycle passenger. At Zanes Law, we’ve recovered over $500 million in settlements overall, and we’re ready to help you file your claim.

Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit as a Passenger

If you sustained injuries as a passenger in a motorcycle accident due to a drunk driver in Arizona, you have the right to pursue financial compensation through a personal injury lawsuit. As a passenger in Arizona, you have independent standing to file a claim and do not need to rely on the driver’s lawsuit. Claims from both parties are often filed jointly.

How Long do You Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?

Injured passengers in Arizona must consult a Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyer right away. Arizona’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years. An experienced Arizona personal injury attorney can assist with filing your claim. 

Passengers may either negotiate a settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance or take the case to an Arizona court if the claim is disputed. Our attorney will evaluate the liability and coverage issues specific to Arizona, such as our status as a comparative negligence state. 

For a free legal consultation, call 866-499-8989

How Hiring an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney Can Help You in a DUI Accident

Retaining knowledgeable legal counsel is essential after suffering injuries in a drunk-driving motorcycle accident with another vehicle. An attorney will ensure your legal rights are protected during this stressful time. We can take over communications and negotiations with insurance providers, allowing you to focus on medical treatment and recovery.

Experienced lawyers understand Arizona liability laws and how to build the strongest possible case against at-fault drunk drivers. We know what evidence must be collected and how to evaluate different types of damages to demand full and fair compensation. Representation provides reassurance that no deadlines or claims are missed, improving the chances of achieving maximum compensation. Here are some other ways we can help you:

Proving Liability in a Multi-Vehicle Accident

Establishing fault can become complex with multiple parties involved in a crash. An attorney experienced in litigating DUI crashes dissects the accident details and mechanics to prove where liability principally lies. We consolidate statements, photos from the scene, police reports, and expert opinions from accident reconstruction specialists.

Determining if the motorcycle driver is partially at fault also requires technical analysis. Comparative negligence principles in Arizona may impact monetary recovery. An attorney can help to thoroughly investigate liability circumstances and relieve passengers from worrying their claim could be jeopardized through no fault of their own.

Gathering Evidence to Support Your Right to Compensation

Proper documentation is key to recovering damages for losses. Our motorcycle accident attorney assists passengers in promptly obtaining important records like medical bills, treatment notes, income documentation, and property damage estimates. 

Prior to the expiration of the two-year statute of limitations, our attorney works to investigate the crash site, request records, and collect witness accounts. Critical data could evolve, so timely preservation protects passengers later in their case or settlement negotiations.

Negotiating With the Insurance Company

Insurance providers aim to settle claims efficiently but may not always cover expenses adequately or make reasonable offers. Our team of motorcycle accident lawyers at Zanes Law understands insurance practices, coverage limits, negotiated resolutions, and the values of injury cases.

We promote passengers’ best interests during discussions, countering low offers and requesting policy limits if warranted. If negotiations stall, civil litigation remains an option. With counsel, you maintain control of your claims instead of feeling pressured directly by insurers.

Determining the Settlement Value of a Passenger’s Claim

Settlement value considers factors like the extent of injuries, types of damages incurred, the strength of the liability case, and comparable past or average motorcycle accident settlements. Our team examines all medical records and bills to understand the full harm caused. We will obtain earnings records or consult experts to quantify losses like missed wages or long-term effects on income potential.

Determining a reasonable settlement value is an in-depth process requiring investigation. We may take depositions of parties involved, hire experts to evaluate aspects of the case, and request discovery documentation from the at-fault driver’s insurance company. 

When reasonable offers are refused, we are prepared to endorse higher settlement figures or recommend pursuing a lawsuit if your recovery warrants further pursuit of compensation. 

What Types of Damages Can a Passenger Claim?

If you were injured in a motorcycle collision caused by an intoxicated driver in Phoenix, passengers have the right to pursue financial compensation for their injuries and losses. Some common types of damages you can recover as a passenger may claim include:

• Medical bills: Your medical expenses include all costs for past and future medical care you’ve required as a result of injuries from the accident.
• Lost wages: If your injuries from the motorcycle accident prevent you from going back to work, as a passenger, you can claim the income you lost.
• Pain and suffering: Monetary damages aim to compensate you for physical pain, mental anguish, disability, disfigurement, and loss of typical life activities you’ve experienced.
• Property damage: Repair or replacement costs are pursued for personally owned items of yours that were damaged or destroyed in the crash.
• Future lost earnings: If your injuries will permanently alter your career prospects, proving likely long-term effects on your income potential can help you account for these losses.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from engaging in hobbies you once enjoyed, you could recover compensation for the effects the accident had on your life. 

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Learn More About Filing a Claim in a DUI Accident as a Motorcycle Passenger

At Zanes Law, we’re passionate about helping you get justice and the compensation you qualify for. If you were injured in a DUI accident as a motorcycle passenger, our team of drunk driving accident attorneys in Phoenix can help you.

Contact us to learn more about filing a claim as a motorcycle passenger in a DUI accident.

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