Newport News Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Helping Motorcyclists & Passengers Injured in Newport News, VA

Motorcyclists face a higher risk of injury in a crash than people in other vehicles. This is due to their lack of protection and their vulnerability to impact. In a collision with a car, truck, or bicycle, a motorcyclist's chances of being severely injured or killed are much higher than those of the other vehicle's occupants.

In the worst cases, a motorcyclist will be left with a permanent disability and will have to rebuild their life from scratch. The costs of medical care, rehabilitation, lost wages, and other expenses can quickly add up to millions of dollars.

That is why you need to call an attorney right away if you have been in a motorcycle accident. You may have a right to compensation for your damages, whether they are physical or emotional. The sooner you get in touch with Kalfus & Nachman PC, the better your chances of recovering what you are owed.

Contact a Newport News motorcycle accident lawyer today at (855) 880-8163 to schedule a free consultation

Nationally Recognized Motorcycle Accident Litigators

Our team at Kalfus & Nachman PC has been acknowledged by Law Tigers as a premier authority in motorcycle accident claims in Virginia. As a renowned network of law firms, Law Tigers is dedicated to safeguarding the rights of motorcyclists nationwide. We take immense pride in this recognition and remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating for motorcyclists with unwavering expertise and dedication.

How Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen?

Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to being hit by other vehicles because of their small size and lack of protection. In many cases, a car or truck will pull out in front of a motorcyclist or merge into their lane without seeing them. Other times, a motorist will simply not see a motorcyclist at all, whether due to the motorcyclist's small size or because they are driving at night.

Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Left Turn Collisions: When a motor vehicle makes a left turn at an intersection or into a driveway without noticing an oncoming motorcycle, it can result in a collision. Motorcycles are smaller and may be less visible than larger vehicles, leading to drivers misjudging their speed or distance.
• Lane Changes: Motorists might fail to check their blind spots or use their mirrors effectively when changing lanes. This can lead to collisions when a motorcyclist is in their blind spot, making it difficult for the driver to see them.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are distracted by activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using in-car entertainment systems are less likely to notice motorcycles around them. This can lead to sudden, unexpected collisions.
• Speeding: Speeding reduces a driver's reaction time and ability to judge distances accurately. Motorcycles can appear to be traveling slower than they actually are, which can make it difficult for speeding drivers to react in time to avoid collisions.
• Tailgating: Following a motorcycle too closely reduces the motorcyclist's ability to maneuver and respond to changes in traffic conditions. If the motorcyclist has to brake suddenly, the driver behind may not have enough time to stop, leading to a rear-end collision.
• Right of Way Violations: Failure to yield the right of way, especially at intersections or when merging, can lead to accidents. Motorcycles have the same rights on the road as other vehicles, and disregarding these rights can cause collisions.
• Door Collisions: Parked vehicles opening their doors without checking for approaching motorcycles can lead to "dooring" accidents. Motorcyclists can collide with the open door, leading to serious injuries.
• Impaired Driving: Both motorists and motorcyclists can cause accidents when driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other substances that impair their judgment and reflexes.
• Inexperienced Drivers: Drivers who are not used to sharing the road with motorcycles might struggle to anticipate their movements, leading to accidents. Similarly, inexperienced motorcyclists may lack the skills to navigate traffic safely.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, and fog can reduce visibility and traction, making it harder for motorists to see motorcycles or for motorcyclists to maintain control of their bikes.
• Failure to Use Turn Signals: When drivers fail to use their turn signals, motorcyclists can't predict their next moves. This lack of communication can lead to accidents, especially when a motorcycle is close by.
• Negligent Driving: General reckless or careless driving behaviors, such as ignoring traffic rules, weaving in and out of traffic, and aggressive driving, can put both motorcyclists and other drivers at risk.

In some cases, the motorcyclist may be partially at fault for the crash. If they were speeding, driving recklessly, or otherwise violating traffic laws, they may have lowered their chances of avoiding the accident. However, even if the motorcyclist was partially at fault, they may still be eligible for compensation for their damages. An experienced Newport News motorcycle accident attorney can help you sort through the details of your case.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Because riders have little protection compared to occupants of enclosed vehicles, motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic or life-changing injuries such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Broken or crushed bones
• Road rash and deep lacerations
• Internal bleeding and organ injuries
• Disfigurement and severe burns
• Loss of limbs
• Fatal injuries

Even with a helmet and protective gear, motorcyclists remain vulnerable to extreme force during a crash. At Kalfus & Nachman PC, we work closely with medical professionals and specialists to accurately assess the full extent of your injuries and long-term needs.

Virginia Motorcycle Laws

Understanding Virginia’s motorcycle laws is essential after a crash. These laws can impact your ability to recover compensation:

• Helmet Law: Virginia requires all motorcyclists and passengers to wear DOT-approved helmets. Riders must also use protective eye gear unless their motorcycle is equipped with a windscreen.
• Licensing Requirements: Motorcyclists must have a valid Class M designation on their driver’s license, demonstrating the necessary training and skill to operate a motorcycle.
• Lane Splitting: Lane splitting—riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic—is illegal in Virginia.
• Insurance Requirements: Motorcycle riders must meet the state’s minimum insurance coverage. However, these minimums may not come close to covering the true costs of a serious accident.
• Contributory Negligence: Virginia follows a strict contributory negligence rule, meaning if the motorcyclist is found even 1% at fault, they may be barred from recovering damages.

This makes having our Newport News motorcycle accident lawyer essential.

Compensation for Injured Motorcyclists

A motorcycle accident can leave you with overwhelming financial and personal losses. Depending on your case, you may be entitled to recover compensation for:

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Lost wages
• Loss of earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium

If you lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash, your family may pursue compensation for funeral costs, medical expenses, lost financial support, and more. Kalfus & Nachman PC will evaluate every aspect of your losses to ensure your claim reflects the true impact of the accident.

Motorcycle Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Virginia?

Most motorcycle accident victims have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Some exceptions may apply.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Virginia’s contributory negligence rule is strict—any fault on your part can bar recovery. Always speak with an attorney before assuming you are at fault.

Should I talk to the insurance company?

Not without legal representation. Insurers may twist your words or pressure you to accept a low settlement. Let your attorney handle communications.

What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?

You may still have options, such as filing a claim through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

What does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?

Kalfus & Nachman PC works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront and nothing unless we win your case.

Call a Newport News Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Newport News, you don’t have to face the insurance companies alone. With over 40 years of legal experience and millions of dollars recovered for our clients, we understand how to protect the rights of injured riders and maximize the compensation they deserve.

The Kalfus & Nachman, P.C. team is ready to help you with your case. You can reach us by calling (855) 880-8163 or filling out our online contact form.