Arlington Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Arlington, VA, Breit Biniazan is here to help. Our team has a strong track record of securing substantial compensation for accident victims, including a $1.45 million settlement for a motorcycle driver who sustained a traumatic brain injury after a rental car driver improperly changed lanes, causing a devastating crash.

Table of Contents

• Our Success Stories For Motorcycle Accidents
• Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Virginia
• Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Virginia
• Other Causes of Motorcycle Accidents According To Forbes
• Motorcycle Accident Injuries
• Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash in Arlington, VA
• Legal Rights of Motorcycle Accident Victims
• Determining Liability in Motorcycle Accidents
• Uninsured Motorist Coverage
• Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim
• Frequently Asked Questions

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries that impact every aspect of life—from physical health to financial stability. At Breit Biniazan, we understand the challenges you face and are committed to fighting for the full compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care needs. Our experienced Arlington motorcycle accident attorneys are ready to stand by your side and hold negligent parties accountable. Contact us today to begin your path to recovery with a free, no-obligation consultation.

Our Success Stories For Motorcycle Accidents

Breit Biniazan has successfully helped motorcycle accident victims and their families recover meaningful compensation, including:

• $1.45 Million – Brain InjuryA motorcyclist sustained devastating brain damage after a rental car driver improperly changed lanes. Our team secured a $1.45 million settlement to support his medical needs and future care.
• $1.275 Million – Wrongful DeathWe achieved a $1.275 million settlement for the family of a man who tragically lost his life after being hit by a racing motorcycle, which threw him off his moped and into a ditch.
• $700,000 – Permanent InjuryOur client, a 31-year-old motorcyclist, was awarded $700,000 after suffering severe and permanent injuries, including a spiral fracture of the ankle, when a driver failed to yield and struck him while making a left turn.

These cases reflect our dedication to advocating for injured motorcyclists in Arlington VA, and securing the compensation they need for recovery and future stability. We have extensive experience in handling motorcycle accident cases and are committed to securing maximum compensation for our clients.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Virginia

Below highlights an overview of the 2022 Virginia Motorcycle Accident Summary from the DMV,

Total Motorcycle Crashes

2,053 crashes (1.7% of all traffic incidents)
113 fatal crashes
1,573 injury crashes
367 property damage only crashes

Motorcycle-Related Fatalities

111 motorcyclists killed (11% of all traffic fatalities)
108 motorcycle drivers killed
3 motorcycle passengers killed

Motorcycle-Related Injuries

1,677 total injuries (2.8% of all traffic injuries)
1,590 motorcycle drivers injured
87 motorcycle passengers injured
762 severe injuries (10.7% of all severe traffic injuries)

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Speeding: 7.5%
Following too closely: 5.9%
Improper lane change: 2%
Failure to yield: 1.4%
Other/No improper action: 38.6%

Age Group with Highest Injuries/Fatalities

Ages 21-25 had the highest injuries, followed by ages 26-30

Alcohol Involvement

4.7% of motorcycle drivers were drinking
91.1% of drivers were not drinking

Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Virginia

Speeding

Responsible for 7.5% of motorcycle accidents, speeding reduces reaction time and increases impact severity in collisions.

Following Too Closely

Following too closely accounts for 5.9% of incidents, leaving motorcyclists at risk when drivers suddenly brake.

Improper Lane Changes

Improper lane changes contribute to 2% of motorcycle crashes, often occurring when drivers fail to check blind spots or overlook motorcycles.

Failure to Yield

Failure to yield causes 1.4% of motorcycle accidents, frequently due to drivers misjudging a motorcyclist’s speed or distance.

Other / No Improper Action

In 38.6% of cases, motorcyclists took no improper action, highlighting the role of driver negligence in many crashes.

Other Causes of Motorcycle Accidents According To Forbes

Licensure and Training Gaps

Over a third (36%) of fatal motorcycle accidents involve riders without a valid motorcycle license, pointing to the critical need for proper training and certification. Lack of licensing may indicate a lack of skills and experience, further endangering riders. This lack of proper training and licensure can lead to serious injuries in motorcycle accidents.

Seasonal and Weather Impact

The risk of a motorcycle accident is not uniform year-round. August is the most dangerous month for riders, with 12% of all fatal motorcycle crashes occurring in that month, likely due to increased travel and favorable riding weather. By contrast, only 3% of fatal crashes happen in January. Additionally, fewer than 2% of motorcycle accidents occur during rainy weather, as motorcyclists generally avoid riding in poor conditions.

Alcohol Impairment

Alcohol is involved in 27% of fatal motorcycle crashes. Drunk driving is especially dangerous for motorcyclists and tends to increase during evening hours, with single-vehicle crashes being particularly common among impaired riders.

Helmet Use and Safety

Helmet use is crucial, as states without helmet mandates see 57% of motorcycle fatalities involving unhelmeted riders, compared to only 11% in states with helmet laws. Helmets reduce fatalities by 37%, though helmet use has slightly declined, from 71% in 2000 to 67% in 2022.

Crash Locations and Demographics

Urban areas present higher risks for motorcyclists, with 67.4% of motorcycle fatalities occurring in cities where traffic is denser. Furthermore, 35% of deadly motorcycle accidents happen at intersections, a danger point due to increased vehicle interactions and potential blind spots. Riders aged 25-29 face the highest risk of fatal accidents, and men account for 92% of all motorcycle fatalities.

Long-Term Trends

Over the past decade, motorcycle fatalities have increased by 20%, driven by factors like distracted driving and larger vehicles on the road. However, injury rates have seen only a modest 1% increase over the same period, reflecting the growing risk specifically of fatal, rather than just injurious, accidents for motorcyclists.

Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle riders are at a significant risk on the roads. They are 28 times more likely to die and four times more likely to be injured in an accident than those in passenger cars. In 2021 alone, 83,000 motorcyclists sustained injuries, translating to a high rate of 468 injuries per 100 million miles traveled. Victims of serious injuries may need to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit to seek compensation for their damages.

Injuries Can Include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
  Even with a helmet, motorcyclists are vulnerable to head injuries, which can lead to long-term cognitive and physical disabilities.
• Spinal Cord Injuries
  Damage to the spinal cord can cause partial or full paralysis, significantly impacting quality of life and requiring lifelong medical care.
• Broken Bones and Fractures
  Fractures, particularly to the legs, arms, and ribs, are common in motorcycle accidents due to the lack of protective barriers.
• Road Rash and Skin Abrasions
  Contact with the road can cause severe skin injuries, often requiring skin grafts and leaving permanent scars.
• Internal Organ Damage
  The impact from a crash can result in internal injuries, including damage to the lungs, liver, or kidneys, which may require emergency surgery.
• Amputations
  Severe limb injuries may necessitate amputation, leading to permanent disability and a need for prosthetics.
• Soft Tissue Injuries
  These include sprains, strains, and tears to muscles and ligaments, which can cause long-term pain and mobility issues.
• Psychological Trauma
  Surviving a serious accident often leads to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, impacting mental health and well-being.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash in Arlington, VA

Seek Medical AttentionGet medical help immediately, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not show symptoms right away but can worsen over time.

Contact Arlington PoliceReport the accident to the police to ensure there is an official report. This document can be crucial for your insurance claim or legal case.

Document the SceneIf safe, take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This visual evidence can be valuable later.

Gather Witness InformationCollect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident. Their statements may be useful for your case.

Avoid Discussing FaultRefrain from discussing or admitting fault at the scene. Statements made in the heat of the moment may be misinterpreted and used against you later.

Notify Your Insurance CompanyInform your insurance provider of the accident as soon as possible, but avoid giving detailed statements until you’ve consulted a lawyer.

Consult a Motorcycle Accident AttorneyReach out to an experienced Arlington motorcycle accident lawyer. They can guide you through the claims process, help gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and work to secure the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer Arlington, VA trusts is crucial to navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

Legal Rights of Motorcycle Accident Victims

Motorcycle accident victims in Arlington, VA, have the right to seek compensation for injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the crash. This includes the right to hold negligent parties accountable—whether they are other drivers, vehicle manufacturers, or even city authorities responsible for road maintenance. Working with an experienced attorney helps ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation to cover medical expenses, long-term care, and other costs.

It is crucial to consult motorcycle accident lawyers to understand and protect your legal rights, as they provide specialized legal assistance and representation for individuals injured in motorcycle accidents.

Determining Liability in Motorcycle Accidents

Determining liability in a motorcycle accident can be complex, as it involves evaluating who was at fault. Liability may rest with the other driver, but it can also extend to third parties, such as vehicle manufacturers in cases of defective parts or local municipalities for hazardous road conditions. In Virginia, which follows a strict contributory negligence rule, you must prove that the other party was entirely at fault to receive compensation. An attorney can investigate your case, gather evidence, and build a strong argument for liability.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage is essential for motorcycle riders, as not all drivers carry adequate insurance. If you’re injured in a collision with an uninsured or underinsured driver, your UM coverage can provide compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. It’s critical to understand your UM policy and coverage limits; an attorney can help you navigate this process and ensure you maximize the benefits available under your own insurance policy.

Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim

Filing a motorcycle accident claim involves multiple steps, from gathering evidence and medical records to submitting documentation to insurance companies. First, a formal claim must be filed with the at-fault party’s insurance provider, detailing the accident, injuries, and financial impact. Negotiating with insurers can be challenging, as they may try to minimize or deny your claim. Having an attorney on your side ensures that you have the support to handle negotiations, manage legal paperwork, and, if necessary, take your case to court to secure fair compensation for your losses. Hiring a Virginia motorcycle accident attorney is crucial to navigate the claims process and secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact an Arlington Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Breit Biniazan today.

Just give us a call at  (703) 291 6650 to schedule your free, confidential case evaluation with our Arlington legal team.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make an Injury Claim if I Was Not Wearing a Helmet?

Yes, you may still be able to file an injury claim if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of your accident in Virginia. However, Virginia’s contributory negligence law can make claims challenging if there’s any argument that some of your injuries might have been preventable with a helmet. Virginia requires helmets for all motorcycle drivers and passengers, and not wearing one may impact your claim, but it doesn’t make it impossible. At Breit Biniazan, our attorneys can help assess your case and build a strategy focused on securing compensation for your injuries, regardless of helmet use.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident in Arlington?

After a motorcycle accident, prioritize your safety and health by seeking medical attention immediately, even for minor injuries. Next, report the accident to local law enforcement to ensure there’s an official record. If possible, document the scene by taking photos and gathering witness contact information. Finally, consult an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can help protect your rights and navigate the claims process.

How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Virginia?

In Virginia, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including motorcycle accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. It’s essential to file within this timeframe to preserve your right to compensation. Missing the deadline typically means forfeiting your right to pursue a claim, so reach out to an attorney as soon as possible.

Can I Still Recover Damages if I Was Partially at Fault?

Virginia follows a strict contributory negligence rule, which means if you are found even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any damages. This is why it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney who can effectively demonstrate that the other party is fully responsible for the crash.

What Types of Compensation Can I Seek After a Motorcycle Accident?

After a motorcycle accident, you may seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and, in cases of severe injury, long-term care costs. In certain cases involving extreme negligence, you may also be eligible for punitive damages. Our attorneys at Breit Biniazan work to ensure that you receive the full compensation necessary to aid in your recovery.