Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Ogden

If another party’s negligence caused your motorcycle crash, you deserve justice. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer Ogden today at Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks at (801) 500-4000 for a free consultation.

You should be able to enjoy riding your motorcycle in Ogden, Utah, without constantly worrying about the careless actions of other drivers.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Ogden, Utah, you need dedicated legal representation that understands the complexities of these cases.

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we understand how a motorcycle accident can turn your life upside down. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Ogden, UT know it can feel overwhelming to deal with medical bills, insurance adjusters, and missed days at work all at once. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

We’ll walk you through essential details about motorcycle accidents in Ogden, common causes, relevant Utah laws, and how to deal with insurance companies. Whether your accident was caused by distracted driving, reckless behavior, or hazardous road conditions, our firm is ready to protect your rights and maximize your recovery. 

Contact our team of motorcycle accident lawyers in Ogden today to learn how we can help you navigate the legal process and get the justice you deserve.

Why Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Ogden are Needed  

Motorcycle accidents happen more often than many people realize, especially in bustling areas like Ogden. While Ogden, Utah, boasts beautiful landscapes and well-traveled roads, it also has its share of busy intersections and highways where crashes can occur. 

Motorcyclists face unique challenges because they lack the physical protection that cars provide. Even a minor collision can lead to serious injuries and a lengthy recovery period.

When you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, you might feel overwhelmed by the sudden expenses. These can include hospital visits, surgeries, rehabilitation costs, and property damage. On top of that, you might be unable to return to work right away. The emotional and financial toll can be difficult for anyone to handle alone.

That’s where our motorcycle accident lawyer in Ogden comes in. At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we work tirelessly to help Ogden riders understand their rights and pursue fair compensation after a motorcycle accident. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents According to Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Ogden

Motorcycle crashes can happen for many reasons, but certain types of collisions are more common than others.
Understanding the most common causes of motorcycle accidents can help riders and other motorists take proactive measures to prevent crashes and enhance road safety. Here are some of the most frequent ones:

Left-Turn Collisions

Left-turn collisions often occur when a car or truck driver misjudges an approaching motorcycle’s speed or distance. Because motorcycles are smaller, drivers might not see them clearly, leading to a serious crash. 

In Ogden, these accidents often happen at intersections where traffic is heavy and drivers are anxious to make a turn. If you’ve been hit by a driver making a left turn, you may have a strong case to seek compensation for your injuries.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting involves riding between two lanes of traffic moving in the same direction.
Although it’s common in some places, lane splitting can be dangerous if other drivers are not expecting a motorcycle to pass between lanes. 

In Utah, lane filtering (a variation of lane splitting under specific conditions) is legal but has certain rules. If those rules are ignored, accidents can happen fast. Drivers who suddenly change lanes without signaling can collide with motorcyclists who are passing between lanes.

Road Hazards

Road hazards might seem minor to people driving cars, but they can be significant threats to motorcyclists.
Potholes, uneven pavement, gravel, or debris on the road can cause you to lose control of your bike. In some cases, you may have a claim against a city or another party responsible for maintaining safe roads. 

Motorcyclists often suffer the worst injuries in a crash. We’ve helped clients recover significant settlements after devastating accidents. Whether another driver was careless or a road hazard caused your crash, we’ll fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

Utah Motorcycle Laws and Helmet Requirements

If you are a motorcycle rider in Ogden or throughout Utah, our Ogden motorcycle accident lawyer wants you to be aware of the laws that apply to you. These laws are designed to promote safety and reduce accidents.

Licensing and Endorsements

You must have a valid motorcycle endorsement or a motorcycle learner permit to ride on Utah roads. To obtain an endorsement, you usually need to pass a written test and a skills test to obtain an endorsement. These tests ensure you understand traffic laws and have the ability to handle a motorcycle safely. If you’re caught riding without the proper license or permit, you could face fines or other penalties.

Lane Filtering

Utah permits a limited form of lane splitting, referred to as “lane filtering.”
Lane filtering is legal if you’re traveling at a slow speed (generally 45 mph or less) and in certain conditions where traffic is stopped or nearly stopped. 

This law aims to reduce congestion and protect motorcyclists from being rear-ended in heavy traffic. However, many drivers might not be aware of the specifics of lane filtering, which can still lead to accidents.

Helmet Requirements

In Utah, riders under the age of 21 are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet while operating a motorcycle.

Even though adult riders over 21 are not required by law to wear a helmet, we highly recommend it. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of severe head injuries. If you’re in an accident and you weren’t wearing a helmet, it could influence how an insurance company views your claim. 

While you can still file a claim if you weren’t wearing a helmet, the insurance company might argue that your injuries would have been less severe if you had been wearing one.

Other Safety Equipment

Utah law requires motorcycles to have a headlight, taillight, and other functional equipment.

You should also keep your bike in good working order, with reliable brakes and tires. Maintaining your motorcycle properly isn’t just about following the law; it’s also about ensuring your own safety on Ogden roads.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Ogden Explains Steps to Take After an Accident

After a motorcycle accident, it’s normal to feel scared, upset, or confused. You might wonder what you need to do first and who you can trust to help you. The actions you take immediately following a crash in Ogden can make a big difference in your recovery and in any legal claim you decide to file. Here are some steps you should consider:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health should always come first. Even if your injuries seem minor, getting checked out by a medical professional as soon as possible is essential. Some injuries take time to show up, and a doctor’s evaluation can document any issues you might not notice right away.
2. Call the Police: In most cases, you should call 911 so that officers can come to the scene. They will write an official report that includes details of the accident. Make sure to cooperate with law enforcement and provide accurate information about what happened.
3. Gather Evidence: If you’re able to do so safely, take photos of the accident scene. Capture your motorcycle, any other vehicles involved, skid marks, road conditions, and visible injuries. Also, contact information should be obtained from any witnesses who saw the collision happen. This evidence could be very valuable later on when proving fault or showing the severity of your injuries.
4. Exchange Information: You’ll need the other driver’s name, contact details, and insurance information. If other parties or any witnesses are involved, gather their details as well. Keep your conversation brief and avoid saying anything that might sound like you’re accepting blame.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company: Most insurance companies require you to report accidents promptly. However, be cautious about the information you share. Stick to the facts and disagree with any settlement offers or recorded statements without talking to an attorney first.
6. Consult an Ogden Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Talking to a lawyer is crucial, especially if you’ve been seriously injured. An experienced attorney can help you understand your options, deal with insurance adjusters, and build a strong case on your behalf. At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, our Ogden motorcycle accident attorneys are ready to evaluate your situation and guide you every step of the way.

How Ogden Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Determine Fault

Figuring out who is at fault in a motorcycle accident can be one of the most challenging parts of pursuing a claim. You might already know that the other driver’s careless or reckless actions led to your injuries, but you need solid evidence to prove it. Understanding how fault is determined in Utah can help you see what steps are necessary to build a strong case.

Negligence and Liability

Most motorcycle accident claims revolve around the concept of negligence. Negligence means someone failed to act reasonably, causing harm to another person.

For instance, if a driver was texting while driving and didn’t notice you in the lane ahead, their negligence could make them liable for your injuries. Utah follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which means you can recover damages as long as you’re not 50% or more at fault for the accident. 

If you’re found to be partially at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. This makes it crucial to gather evidence clearly showing the other party’s negligence.

Evidence Used to Determine Fault

Evidence plays a major role in proving who caused the crash.
All of these documents can prove to be of utmost importance in bringing validation to your claim: 

• Police Reports: A police report can offer an unbiased account of the accident and may include the officer’s opinion on who was at fault.
• Witness Statements: People who saw the accident can provide details you might not remember, especially if your injuries were severe or if the crash happened quickly.
• Photos and Videos: Photographic evidence of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage can help reconstruct how the accident occurred. Sometimes, traffic or security cameras may have captured the incident.
• Professional Testimony: Accident reconstruction experts can analyze vehicle damage, skid marks, and other data to give a professional opinion on how the accident took place and who is likely to blame.

Common Defenses 

When you file a claim, you can expect the other driver or their insurance company to defend themselves.

A common defense is to argue that you were speeding or not following traffic rules. They might also claim you were lane splitting illegally or not wearing a helmet, hoping to show you were partially at fault. Having a lawyer on your side who can counter these arguments and present clear evidence of the other driver’s wrongdoing is essential.

Our Role in Proving Fault

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we take a thorough approach to investigating your case.

We’ll collect witness statements, work closely with expert testimonies, and analyze every piece of evidence to show that the other driver was negligent. 

Our motorcycle accident lawyers of Ogden aim to build a strong argument that leaves little room for doubt about who caused your accident. We also make sure to address any claims that you were partially responsible, protecting your right to fair compensation.

Compensation Available for Motorcycle Accident Victims 

Being involved in a motorcycle accident can have a lasting impact on your life. You might be left with huge medical bills, ongoing therapy costs, and the emotional strain that follows a serious crash. 

In Utah, victims are generally entitled to seek financial compensation to cover these losses. However, figuring out what types of compensation are available and how much you can get can be complex. Here’s a closer look at what you may recover after a motorcycle accident in Ogden.

Medical Expenses

The cost of healthcare after a motorcycle accident often adds up faster than you’d expect.

• Hospital Bills: Emergency care, surgeries, and hospital stays can be incredibly expensive.
• Rehabilitation and Therapy: Many victims need physical therapy, occupational therapy, or mental health counseling to fully recover.
• Future Medical Care: You may require ongoing treatment if you have long-term injuries. We help estimate these future costs so they can be included in your claim.

Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity

If your injuries keep you away from work, you shouldn’t have to lose your paycheck along with your health.

• Lost Income: You may be able to claim the wages you missed because you were too injured to do your job.
• Reduced Earning Potential: Sometimes injuries are so severe that you can’t return to the same type of work you did before. If that’s the case, we can seek compensation for your reduced ability to earn a living in the future.

Pain and Suffering

Not all damages are purely financial.

• Physical Pain: Serious injuries can cause lasting physical discomfort.
• Emotional Distress: Anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can follow a severe crash.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If your injuries prevent you from enjoying hobbies or activities you once loved, you might be entitled to additional compensation.

Property Damage

Your motorcycle might be seriously damaged or even totaled after an accident.

• Repair Costs: If your motorcycle can be fixed, you can claim the cost of repairs.
• Replacement Value: If your bike is a total loss, you can seek compensation for its fair market value.

Punitive Damages

In rare cases, punitive damages might be awarded if the other party’s behavior was especially reckless or malicious.

• Purpose: Punitive damages are meant to punish the wrongdoer rather than compensate you.
• Examples: Drunk driving or deliberately dangerous acts might justify punitive damages.

The Importance of Valuing Your Claim Properly

It’s easy to overlook some of the hidden costs of a motorcycle accident. You might think only about immediate bills, but what about long-term expenses or emotional harm? That’s where having an experienced lawyer becomes so valuable. 

We understand how to assess the full scope of your damages and ensure that no important details are missed. If the insurance company tries to lowball you, we’ll be ready to fight for a fair settlement.

Our Approach to Seeking Compensation

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, we take the time to get to know you and understand the accident’s full impact on your life.

We’ll consult with medical professionals, financial experts, and anyone else who can help give us a clear picture of what you’re facing. Our lawyers will then negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, we won’t hesitate to take your case to court.

Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Motorcycle Accident

One of the most stressful parts of a motorcycle accident is dealing with insurance companies. You might assume your insurer will be on your side, but that’s not always how it feels. Insurance adjusters often look for ways to minimize the amount of money they have to pay out, and this can lead to frustrating delays or even claims denials. 

Let’s take a look at the challenges you may face and how you can protect yourself when talking to insurance carriers.

Why Insurance Companies Can Be Tough to Deal With

Insurance companies are businesses. Their main goal is to turn a profit, which means paying out as little as possible on claims. Even if an adjuster sounds friendly, remember that they work for the insurance company, not for you. 

They might use tactics like asking for recorded statements, requesting additional medical exams, or pushing quick, low settlement offers to close your claim cheaply.

Tips for Talking to Insurance Adjusters

It’s important to be careful about what you say when you’re on the phone with an insurance representative.

• Stick to the Facts: Provide basic information about the accident, but avoid giving detailed opinions. You don’t want to say something that can be used against you accidentally.
• Don’t Admit Fault: Even small comments like, “I might have been going a little fast,” can be turned against you.
• Avoid Accepting Quick Settlements: Insurers might immediately offer you a lump sum, hoping you’ll jump at the chance. This early offer might be much lower than what you truly need to cover all your costs.
• Take Notes: Keep a record of every conversation you have, including the adjuster’s name and the date and time of the call.

Common Insurance Company Tactics

Being aware of these tactics can help you recognize when an insurer is not treating your claim fairly. Following are some of the tactics insurance companies might use to delay or altogether deny your claim: 

• Delay: The adjuster may drag out the process, hoping you’ll accept a smaller amount out of frustration.
• Dispute Medical Costs: They might argue your treatments are not “medically necessary” or that some bills are too high.
• Downplay Injuries: They could claim your injuries aren’t as severe as you say, even if you have a doctor’s diagnosis.
• Blame You: Some insurers try to assign partial or full blame to you, reducing or denying your claim based on comparative negligence.

How Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Ogden Assist Victims

When you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, you might feel like you’re all alone in facing the aftermath. We want you to know that you don’t have to tackle the challenges by yourself. 

At Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, our team is dedicated to standing by Ogden riders who have been injured due to someone else’s negligence. Let’s explore how we can help you through every phase of your motorcycle accident claim.

Personalized Case Evaluation

Before we dive into the specifics of how our legal team supports you, it’s important to understand how we begin our relationship with you.
We start by listening. We’ll sit down with you and gather all the details of the accident. We’ll ask about your injuries, medical treatments, financial concerns, and any other issues that resulted from the accident. 

This initial conversation allows us to get a clear picture of what happened and how we can assist. From there, our Ogden auto and motorcycle accident lawyers craft a plan tailored to your unique circumstances.

Thorough Investigation

A big part of building a strong case is gathering the right evidence.

• Accident Reports: We’ll review the police report to see who the officer believes may have been at fault.
• Witness Accounts: Our team works to track down and interview witnesses who can support your story.
• Professional Insights: We may bring in accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, or other specialists to strengthen your claim.
• Documentation: Our team of motorcycle accident attorneys will compile everything needed to present a clear and compelling case, from medical records to photos of the crash scene.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

Insurance issues can quickly become overwhelming, especially if multiple parties are involved. We’re here to handle those communications on your behalf. 

We negotiate with the insurance adjusters, ensure your medical bills are accounted for, and push back against any attempts to undervalue your claim. Our experience means we know the strategies insurance companies use, and we’ll help protect you from unfair treatment.

Calculating Damages

When we talk about “damages,” we’re referring to all the different ways the accident has harmed you financially, physically, and emotionally.
Most common claims for compensation in motorcycle accidents in Ogden include:

• Medical Bills: We’ll consider current and future medical costs, including surgeries, rehab, and ongoing care.
• Lost Wages: If you’ve missed work, we’ll work to recover lost income. If your injuries impact your long-term career, we’ll seek compensation for that, too.
• Pain and Suffering: We understand that accidents can take a huge toll on your mental and emotional well-being. We include these non-economic damages in your claim.
• Property Damage: Repairs or replacement of your motorcycle can also be included in your demand for compensation.

Negotiation and Litigation

Most cases are settled before going to court, but we prepare for every possibility.

We start by negotiating a fair settlement with the insurance company or the at-fault party’s legal team. We use the evidence we’ve gathered to show why you deserve the amount we’re asking for.

If the other side won’t agree to fair terms, we’re fully prepared to take your case to trial. Our attorneys have the courtroom experience needed to present a solid case to a judge or jury.

Keeping You Informed

Throughout the process, we make sure you know what’s happening with your case.

We believe in open communication, so you can always reach out with questions or concerns. Our goal is to give you peace of mind and let you focus on healing while we handle the legal aspects.

By choosing Flickinger Boulton Robson Weeks, you gain a team of professionals who genuinely care about your well-being. We’re proud to serve Ogden and are committed to treating each of our clients with respect, compassion, and dedication. Let us shoulder the legal burdens so you can concentrate on your recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Claims in Ogden