Motorcycle Accidents

For those who ride motorcycles, there is nothing quite like the feel of the open road. Riding a motorcycle is often an expression of personal freedom and a way to be a little different from the average motorist. Unfortunately, riding also comes with serious risks. According to recent estimates, in fact, a motorcycle rider is 27 times more likely to be killed in an accident than a person in a car or truck, and five times more likely to be injured.

At Fotopoulos Law Office, we understand how quickly a motorcycle accident can change the lives of victims and their families. While we cannot undo the damage caused by such a crash, we are equipped to help you get the compensation you need to start putting your life back together.

The vast majority of motorcycle riders are careful, law-abiding motorists who want nothing more than to get to where they are going safely. Unfortunately, there are a few riders whose aggressive, reckless riding puts others at risk. Such behavior often creates biases and the unfair assumption that when a motorcycle is involved in a crash, the rider must have been doing something wrong.

The reality is that most motorcycle accidents are caused by the drivers of cars, SUVs, and other passenger vehicles. Due to their size and visual profile, motorcycles can be hard to see at intersections, while changing lanes, or when merging. All it takes is a moment of inattention by a driver to transform a simple left turn into a life-threatening situation. Other causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Drunk driving or drugged driving
• Driver distraction, including the use of a cell phone
• Aggressive driving, including hostile actions against the rider
• Failure to check blind spots before changing lanes or merging

Motorcycle riders are especially at risk due to the lack of structural protection. As a result, an accident may lead to catastrophic injuries and death. Unfortunately, recovering compensation is not always easy. Insurance companies are often quick to blame motorcycle riders for causing their accidents, even if the rider was riding safely.

With over 18 years experience including time as a Cook County judge, Attorney John S. Fotopoulos understands the importance of conducting a full investigation into the crash to determine what happened and why. From there, he and his team will go to work in building a case to hold the appropriate party or parties accountable for their negligence. We are not afraid of insurance companies or their lawyers, and we will not be intimidated into accepting a settlement that fails to meet your needs. You deserve an advocate who will fight hard for you, and we will continue working on your behalf until you obtain full compensation under the law including taking your case to trial.

If you or a member of your family has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our office. Call 708-942-8400 to schedule a free consultation and case evaluation today. Our firm serves clients in Orland Park, Tinley Park, Oak Forest, Alsip, Palos Heights, Joliet, Mokena, Homer Glen, Will County, Cook County, and the surrounding areas.