How Motorcycle Accident Lawsuits Work From Start to Finish

Motorcycle riding through a neighborhood

Motorcycle accident lawsuits are complex and often require the knowledge and experience of an experienced personal injury firm. Your ability to obtain a proper damages award can depend on the skill of the attorney handling your case.

Motorcycle accidents can involve serious, life-changing injuries and challenging issues that require legal action to resolve. Understanding the basics of a motorcycle accident lawsuit can help ensure that you are prepared and don’t miss any important requirements along the way. 

At Falcon Law Firm, if you or a loved one have suffered injuries in a motorcycle collision, you are not alone. Our motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help you from the start. Contact us at (732) 660-1200 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your rights after a motorcycle accident.

When Can I Sue After a Motorcycle Accident?

You can sue after a motorcycle accident when you have suffered significant damages, the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, or when the defendant has the means to pay a verdict. 

You Have Recoverable Damages

Motorcycle accidents tend to cause severe and catastrophic injuries. Victims often suffer:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Multiple broken bones and fractures
  • Severe road burn
  • Muscle and nerve damage
  • Spinal cord damage
  • Internal organ damage
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Bike riders may need multiple surgeries and other extensive medical treatment. Accident survivors need lengthy recovery times, forcing them to juggle mounting bills while missing work to heal. Particularly severe motorcycle collisions can lead to life-long debilitating injuries.

Damages in motorcycle accident lawsuits represent the physical and mental losses suffered by the injured party. While every lawsuit is different, most motorcycle accidents can potentially recover the following damages:

  • Medical expenses: Medical expenses include all medical bills relating to the accident, including the ambulance ride, treatments, and rehabilitative therapy. In cases of disabling injuries, the victim may require home modifications, special equipment, and life-long care.
  • Lost wages and income: Many injured bikers find themselves missing a prolonged amount of work. A lawsuit allows them to recover any lost wages during their recovery. If injuries have left the victim unable to hold the same level of employment, they may be able to recover the loss of future income. 
  • Mental damages: Mental damages often include the loss of enjoyment of life, emotional distress, and the pain and suffering caused by the accident itself and the subsequent healing process. 

The Insurance Company Has Denied, Delayed, or Undervalued Your Claim

Insurance companies have a bottom line to protect. In some cases, they may place their profitability above paying out the fair value for a claim. Insurance adjusters have also been known to deny or delay legitimate claims. 

An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the complex claims system. Attorneys are trained negotiators, like insurance adjusters. At Falcon Law Firm, we can shield you from any unsavory insurance tactics, prepare and file your claim, and ensure you recover the damages you are entitled to by settlement or verdict. 

The Defendant Has the Means to Pay You

No matter the strength of your case, if the defendant you are suing does not have the means to pay your win, there is nothing to recover. 

Our motorcycle accident lawyers can look over the defendant’s financial records to find recoverable assets, including:

  • Business income
  • Property liens
  • Personal wages and assets

A skilled attorney can examine the details of your case to determine all liable parties. In some cases, multiple claims can be used to recover the full compensation you deserve. 

While not every motorcycle collision leads to a lawsuit, serious injuries have higher claim values. The higher the financial stakes, the more likely an insurance company will refuse to offer a fair payout.  

Lawsuits involving injuries and wrongful death lawsuits have very different damages. Motorcycle accident lawsuits involving catastrophic injuries are typically worth more than other serious injury cases.

How Long Will It Take to Resolve a Motorcycle Accident Case?

There is no average length of time it takes to resolve a motorcycle accident case. Whether your motorcycle accident lawsuit takes a few months or over a year depends on the circumstances of your collision.

In some cases, a lawsuit may settle in a few months. However, when a biker suffers extensive injuries that result in a much higher claim value, an insurance company is more likely to go to trial. 

At Falcon Law Firm, our talented litigation team will negotiate with the insurance adjuster on your behalf. If your case must proceed to trial, we have the skills and resources to secure a just verdict. 

What Is the Average Payout for a Motorcycle Accident?

There is no average payout for a motorcycle accident. Compensation depends entirely on the losses suffered by the motorcycle accident victim or their family. 

For example, in Pennsylvania, motorcycle accidents have increased by 14.1% in the last year. Fatal motorcycle collisions have increased by 22.9%. With the number of licensed motorcyclists growing every year, there will be more accidents on the road. 

Lawsuits involving injuries and wrongful death lawsuits have very different damages. Motorcycle accident lawsuits involving catastrophic injuries are typically worth more than other serious injury cases. 

It is in your best interests to seek an experienced attorney’s help to properly evaluate your accident’s circumstances. 

At Falcon Law Firm, we have successfully recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients. Contact us today for a free case evaluation. 

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer 

Motorcycle accident lawsuits can often involve unique laws and legal issues, especially in comparison with passenger automobile cases. Such cases require the assistance of a lawyer who has proven experience in litigating such claims. 

Contact Falcon Law Firm today if you or a loved one have suffered serious injuries in a motorcycle crash. Our auto accident attorneys have years of experience helping motorcycle accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. 

Call (732) 660-1200 today and schedule a free consultation. We can discuss the details of your case and help protect your best interests. 

How Do You Select the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Your Case?

A man in a jacket and black helmet rides atop his motorcycle in front of a rural sunset vista.

Your life can change in an instant when someone else fails to see you on your motorcycle and causes a crash. An experienced lawyer can help you recover.

Motorcycle accidents often involve serious injuries and property damage. In fact, motorcycle riders are 29% more likely to die from a crash than passengers in other vehicles. When you are facing astronomical bills and an altered future, it can be hard to know what to do next. You need a motorcycle accident lawyer who understands what you’re going through and can assist you with a personal injury lawsuit.

At the Falcon Law Firm, we specialize in handling motorcycle accident cases and focus on providing the best legal representation available. We do the hard work of seeking compensation from those who may be liable so you can heal from your injuries. We also want you to understand more about how to select the right motorcycle accident lawyer for your case.

Contact us today at (732) 660-1200 for a free review and consultation. Our attorneys are here to protect your rights and pursue justice on your behalf while you focus on healing.

How Do I Find a Good Local Lawyer?

You should begin your search by looking for an attorney who has experience litigating motorcycle accident cases like yours. Ask other riders who have had accidents who they hired for help. An attorney who rides or frequently works for riders will have more in-depth knowledge of how motorcycle accidents are different from other vehicle crashes.

Your lawyer should be familiar with the special risks motorcycle riders face. Riders are frequently the victims of hit-and-run accidents, and often grievous injuries that extensive medical evaluation. For an individual who must be airlifted to a specialty hospital, or those who are in a coma after the accident, the full amount of damage may not be apparent for weeks. Hiring a personal injury lawyer who regularly works with motorcycle riders can be critical to ensuring your injuries are fully treated for as long as needed.

Motorcycle riders also face a risk of crashing from bad road or weather conditions. In some instances, what seems like a simple case of a rider losing control may actually form the basis of a lawsuit against other parties for causing dangerous conditions for a motorcycle. Drivers who drift or change lanes without looking can leave a rider without a safe path. Poor road maintenance can cause a rider to spin out and crash into a guardrail. Spills and debris left uncollected from other vehicles could endanger other motorists. 

Your attorney should investigate all possible causes for your accident to find who is responsible. Just because you lost control of your bike doesn’t necessarily mean it’s your fault.

What Are the Potential Damages in a Motorcycle Accident Suit?

A claim for damages after a motorcycle accident could include:

  • Economic damages:
    • Hospital bills, such as ICU, ER, and surgery
    • Transport costs, including ambulance or helicopter (“life flight”)
    • Physical therapy
    • Special treatments, such as skin grafts or burn therapy
    • Medications and medical devices
    • Loss of income
    • Travel costs for ongoing medical treatment
    • Motorcycle repair or replacement
  • Non-economic damages:
    • Pain and suffering
    • Scarring or disfigurement
    • Loss of limb or limb function
    • Loss of enjoyment of life
    • Loss of companionship within a marriage or family members
    • Mental anguish, including conditions like PTSD or depression

Because motorcycle riders are less protected, their accidents are often fatal. If you or a loved one dies from a crash, your family can seek all the damages listed above, plus expenses for your burial, funeral, and the loss of their family member by filing a wrongful death action.

The attorney you select should have a proven history of comprehensive settlements and verdicts. What you ultimately receive depends largely on what your attorney knows to ask for during negotiations or trial.

“Punitive damages” are another source of compensation that are essentially “punishment” damages. They are often awarded by a judge when a defendant’s actions were egregious or deliberate, such as reckless or intoxicated driving.

What Questions Should You Ask When Hiring a Lawyer?

It’s advisable to write down the questions you have before you meet with your lawyer and take notes on the answers you receive. After the initial consultation, a good attorney will also make themselves available for any other concerns you have later on. In essence, you are conducting a job interview, and the attorney should work to earn your business.

Not every lawyer will have the combination of qualities you need for your situation. You can often find a great deal of detail about their knowledge and past cases on their website and social media profiles, such as LinkedIn. Look for testimonials and indications that they have specifically handled motorcycle accident cases before.

Some key questions you should ask when hiring a lawyer include:

  • How much experience do you have? There is something to be said for years spent in the courtroom and negotiating. Your lawyer should have been in business for a while, with a relatively recent background in handling cases like yours.
  • Do you specialize in certain areas of law? Some lawyers will have certifications in specific fields, although this is not required to be successful. Ask how much of their practice is spent in areas like motorcycle accidents or car accidents to get an idea of their strengths and professional focus.
  • How much compensation do you think I can receive? A qualified lawyer will be able to assess your losses and describe what types of compensation are reasonable to expect. They also will help you develop a full accounting of damages, which could total more than you realize.
  • Do you work on contingency fee? Ask what their standard fee schedule is and whether they work on a contingency fee basis. Many lawyers will set a percentage of the final settlement for their fee as their payment, meaning you don’t have to pay upfront. In contingency fee arrangements, if the lawyer doesn’t achieve a settlement or verdict away, you don’t owe any payments for their services.
  • How long will my case take? Each case is unique but your lawyer should be able to give you a rough estimate for the time needed to settle or win your suit. For example, a standard timeframe for personal injury cases is between 6 months and 2 years.

You should also choose a lawyer with experience in negotiating last-minute settlements that may come right before a case is scheduled for trial. When they have built a solid case for you, this gives them powerful bargaining leverage to work out the most satisfactory offer as quickly as possible.

The attorneys at Falcon Law Firm recognize that personal injury sufferers and their families are likely dealing with financial hardship after an accident. That is why we invest our office’s resources to build cases upfront, and only earn our fee if we successfully settle or win your lawsuit.

What Are the Signs of a Good Lawyer?

Along with experience in litigating cases like yours, you want a lawyer who “feels right.” This means they are comfortable to talk with, and you’re able to connect with them. Like all people, lawyers have different communication styles and personalities, and the best attorney for you will be someone you can rely on and trust throughout the process.

Good lawyers build relationships with their clients by listening to their stories and honestly reviewing their options. A good local lawyer will answer all your questions before you sign an agreement. They will be interested in providing the best legal counsel they can.

A good lawyer will also be willing to go to trial and fight for the justice you deserve. A lawyer should negotiate with insurance companies for a settlement, but also be prepared to litigate on your behalf if that is in your best interests. After a motorcycle accident caused by another’s negligence, you deserve a lawyer who will fight for full compensation to improve your health outcomes, your family’s cohesion, and the financial security of your future.

Contact the Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm Today

The motorcycle accident lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm stand ready to put our exceptional skills to work for you. We have recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients, devoting careful, personal attention to every detail of each case. We help you recover the maximum compensation available to you.

Our team of attorneys and legal professionals will work tirelessly to gather evidence and build a strong case to protect your rights. We will also help you organize treatment and motorcycle repairs so you can focus on healing after your crash. Falcon Law Firm always goes the extra mile to meet with and support our clients.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact us today through our online form or call (732) 660-1200 for a free consultation.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident?

A semi-truck travels on a dark tree-lined highway with headlights on in rainy conditions.

Commercial trucks are an important part of our economy’s livelihood, carrying cargo across the nation. But when an accident happens involving a vehicle weighing over 80,000 pounds, other motorists often face severe injuries as a result. Your life can change in an instant during a truck accident, leaving you with huge expenses and an uncertain future.

The New Jersey-based Falcon Law Firm has years of experience handling truck accident cases and helping the victims of someone else’s negligence or actions. Contact our offices today online or by calling (732) 660-1200—we also serve areas of neighboring Pennsylvania, and have experience in holding national and international transport companies accountable.

Read on to learn about damages you could recover and who can be held liable in a truck accident.

How Much Is Truck Accident Lawsuit Worth?

When the driver of a massive 18-wheeler loses control, there is tremendous potential for property damage and physical injury. Passenger cars and even other trucks can be involved in follow-on accidents that compound the loss. Victims face astronomical medical bills and the risk of lifelong disability or death from the worst collisions.

The lawyers at Falcon Law Firm work for the highest compensation possible for each of our clients. Our lawyers can discuss what you can realistically expect based on your situation.

Most victims recognize that they can seek reimbursement for medical expenses. A qualified truck accident attorney can help you develop a list of both economic and non-economic damages to seek. 

Economic damages are usually easy to document, such as:

  • Hospital bills, including for ICU, ER, or surgery
  • Auto repair or replacement costs
  • Medications
  • Medical devices
  • Lost wages

Non-economic damages are more subjective but affect your life just the same. They include:

  • Emotional distress
  • Physical pain and suffering
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Isolation from society
  • Scarring and disfigurement

At Falcon Law Firm, our skilled attorneys are experts at translating non-economic damages into specific amounts for the court to consider. We consult with financial and medical professionals to ensure we seek all the compensation you deserve for how your life has been affected. Contact us at (732) 660-1200 for a free consultation.

Are Truck Drivers Always at Fault?

Truck drivers are responsible for safely handling large, heavy vehicles that sometimes carry “hazmat” cargo. They receive specialized training and often have years of experience driving in all conditions. Despite this, they are still subject to fatigue, mistakes, and overwork.

If a driver neglects maintenance or inspections, drives dangerously, or engages in distracted driving, they may be held liable. However, some truck accidents occur from factors beyond the driver’s control, such as:

  • Faulty components: Hundreds of parts and systems on a commercial truck have the potential to malfunction, whether from overuse or defective manufacture.
  • Hazardous or unbalanced cargo: Truck cargo is sometimes flammable, toxic, or hard to secure. Improperly loaded freight could shift on the road, sending dangerous materials into traffic.
  • Driving conditions: Heavy rain or sleet, limited visibility, debris on the road, and other drivers can all contribute to serious truck accidents.

Your attorney from Falcon Law Firm will fully investigate your crash, and work to identify all the relevant parties who may be held liable.

What Parties Can Be Held Liable in a Truck Accident Case?

At Falcon Law Firm, our lawyers know it takes a thorough investigation to determine who is actually at fault in a truck accident. Researching evidence such as police reports, camera footage, and insurance claims allows our team to create a plan for proving liability for all parties involved.

You may think you only need to file a personal injury suit against the truck driver, but it may be possible to seek damages from a parts manufacturer or other drivers for their reckless driving. There may be other entities that bear responsibility, such as:

  • Carrier companies: These own the trucks and employ the drivers. They usually face the legal burden of any lawsuits. They also hire and train drivers and set inspection protocols for equipment.
  • Truck manufacturers: When trucks are poorly designed or produced, you could include the truck makers in your claim.
  • Tire manufacturers: Tires that can’t hold up to the tremendous demands of long-haul trucking can blow out, causing multi-car pileups through no fault of the driver.
  • Government agencies: While it’s rare to sue the government successfully, it’s possible to demonstrate that negligence from road maintenance teams contributed to your accident.

By following the evidence as far as it goes, your attorney ensures that all potential avenues of compensation are pursued. This greatly increases the chance that all of your losses and damages are covered, for injuries already suffered, and any ongoing care you require.

A holistic understanding of truck accidents and all who are responsible for a crash is essential when building a comprehensive case. Reach out to our offices today by calling (732) 660-1200 — we’ll explore all of your legal options together, and find the best course of action for you and your family.

What if Multiple Parties Caused the Truck Accident?

When multiple parties are responsible for your truck accident, it can be confusing to know how to proceed. Insurance companies will also complicate your case when negotiating a settlement, and this is where you can rely on the personal injury lawyers at Falcon Law Firm. We focus on figuring out who is at fault and how to advance your claim so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.

There are many factors to consider if more than one individual or company is part of the collision, including:

  • Is the truck driver an employee or a contractor? – A driver’s employer can be named as a defendant, but what if the driver is a self-employed contractor for a company?
  • Was an Uber or Lyft driver involved? – Rideshare companies carry insurance on their drivers, but only under certain circumstances.
  • Did someone suffer a medical emergency while driving? – If a driver has a heart attack or stroke, deciding if they are at fault is very complex.
  • Did substances play a role in the crash? – Alcohol and illegal drugs are known causes of dangerous driving, but what if a motorist took a prescription drug that affected their driving unexpectedly?
  • Did the crash involve a vehicle with a recall problem? – Many thousands of cars are recalled each year for transmission or other issues that could cause a driver to lose control.

As you can see, trying to determine who is at fault can be complex. Many states have comparative negligence laws that allow a percentage of blame to be assigned to multiple parties. This helps you pursue each individual or company that played a part in your accident.

How Is Liability Determined?

In determining who is at fault, your truck accident attorney will gather evidence showing how each party was involved. A qualified attorney will build their case using sources such as:

  • Police reports
  • Video footage from traffic, security, and dashboard cameras
  • Photos of the accident scene
  • Crash scene investigator reports
  • Medical records
  • Witness testimony
  • Analysis of road conditions
  • Vehicle maintenance records
  • Truck driver training records
  • Motorist driving records
  • Cell phone records

This documentation can create a clear picture of how everyone involved in the crash behaved or was influenced. For example, a driver who is distracted by their cell phone could weave in front of a truck, causing a chain reaction collision without realizing it. Thorough research into traffic camera footage and witness statements would ensure that the right parties are brought to justice. 

The legal team at the Falcon Law Firm can help you explore all possible avenues for compensation for your truck accident. Reach out to us today to discuss how we can help you understand your options.

Contact the Truck Accident Lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm Today

Recovering from a serious truck accident takes time and patience. When you are healing, you need a trusted advisor from the Falcon Law Firm to do the hard work for you. We have successfully claimed millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients. While you rest, we don’t; we work tirelessly to ensure your case is strong.

Our truck accident lawyers are ready to put our three decades of experience to work for you. We negotiate with insurance companies and opposing attorneys to reach the best outcome for you. If a satisfactory settlement can’t be obtained, we will seek remediation in the courts for you. 

The Falcon Law Firm is here to help you and your family in the worry and confusion after your truck accident. Contact us today using our convenient online form or call (732) 660-1200 for a free consultation.

What Are the Damages in a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?

A bearded man rides a motorcycle past a brick building while wearing a black helmet and jacket.

Many motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers on the road, and when a passenger car or truck collides with a motorcycle, the bike rider almost always suffers more.

The National Safety Council reports that motorcyclists experience 14% of all traffic fatalities, a number which has increased in recent years. Car and truck drivers are more distracted than ever due to the rise of handheld and in-vehicle technology, and watching for smaller motorcycles in traffic becomes more difficult when their attention is elsewhere. 

Motorcycles only make up 3% of all registered vehicles in the US, and this rarity means drivers could be dangerously unpracticed at sharing the road.

If you or a loved one has been injured on a bike, the injuries and losses can be catastrophic—life-altering or life-ending. The attorneys at Falcon Law Firm in New Jersey can help you access the financial resources you will need to pay for medical care and rebuild your life. Contact us at (732) 660-1200 as soon as possible to explore your legal options and claim the full compensation you deserve.

What Is the Average Payout for a Motorcycle Accident?

The short answer is “It depends.” It depends on who caused the motorcycle accident, how bad the injuries are, who has insurance, and the cap on the coverage amounts. A personal injury lawsuit can make up the difference between what insurance covers, and the actual cost of your injuries.

You can seek two main types of damages in a personal injury suit: economic and non-economic. 

Economic damages usually have a bill or receipt associated with them, including coverage for:

  • Medical bills for past, present, and future treatments
  • Lost wages from your job
  • Loss of future income and inheritance
  • Motorcycle repair or replacement costs
  • Medical travel expenses
  • ICU and ER bills
  • Other hospital costs
  • Surgery bills
  • Prosthetic or other medical devices
  • Funeral and burial expenses

Non-economic damages are less concrete and focus on the pain and suffering the victim and their family feel. Examples may include:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of consortium in your marriage
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Emotional distress
  • Permanent disability or impairment
  • Mental anguish of your family from grief and mourning

Your motorcycle accident lawyer can pursue every avenue for compensation by thoroughly investigating your crash. This could mean negotiating with your insurance company and the other driver’s insurance reps, suing car manufacturers for faulty vehicles, filing against municipalities for unsafe roads, or taking the driver who hit you to court.

The amounts awarded in personal injury lawsuits vary depending on the damages done, the causes of the injuries, and the state where the accident happened. Falcon Law Firm represents plaintiffs in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, and our dedicated experience with local law can make all the difference in maximizing the resources you need.

What Is the Most Common Major Motorcycle Injury?

As you might expect, there are a lot of injuries that can happen when riding a vehicle with essentially no protection for your body. Even those wearing crash-rated helmets and full safety gear can still be severely injured in a collision.

The most common major motorcycle injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Spinal injuries, including whiplash
  • Broken bones and lacerations
  • Amputated limbs
  • Damage to organs
  • Internal bleeding

Serious injuries such as these may require specialist treatment, long-term physical therapy, or life-long changes to a person’s mobility needs. A successful lawsuit can help ensure there are funds available to you for optimal care, rehabilitation, and dignity.

The amount of compensation you accept as a settlement should reflect the severity of your injury. If a settlement amount offered is not enough, your lawyer from Falcon Law Firm will not hesitate in taking your case to trial. You deserve no less.

Who Is At Fault in Most Motorcycle Accidents?

Studies show that most motorcycle accidents happen when other drivers violate the rider’s right of way. A driver may look for oncoming traffic but fail to actually see a motorcycle approaching or in their perimeter in traffic. This happens commonly enough that it is called “looked but failed to see” (LBFTS) by law enforcement but does not negate the driver’s responsibility for the accident.

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation recommends that drivers take extra precautions to watch for bikes since over half of all motorcycle fatalities involve another vehicle. Drivers are also more likely to miss recognizing a motorcycle when they are distracted by using their cell phones.

Even though some motorcyclists may engage in risky behaviors that can result in collisions, it is usually other motorists on the road who are at fault in most motorcycle accidents.

A recent study showed that bans in the US on the use of handheld devices by drivers resulted in an overall 8.8% reduction in motorcycle fatalities.

How Do Most Motorcycle Deaths Occur?

Most motorcycle accidents lead to some kind of serious or even catastrophic injury. Deaths at the scene often occur due to head injury or blood loss. Riders also may pass away later on due to internal bleeding, organ damage, or shock.

Common types of accidents that lead to death include:

  • Front-end crashes
  • Rear-end collisions
  • Intersection crashes (including left-hand turns and t-bone collisions)
  • Distracted driving
  • Unsafe lane changes
  • Speeding or reckless driving
  • Drunk driving

So many fatal accidents are 100% preventable with the proper safety, training, and conscientiousness of other drivers on the road. After an accident has occurred, the priority is securing what you need to move on, and holding any reckless or responsible parties fully accountable.

Contact Falcon Law Firm for Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Many motorcyclists prize their bikes and operate with abundant safety knowing how dangerous a crash can be to life and limb. When another driver or entity causes an accident that significantly impacts or irrevocably changes your life, you deserve justice.

The motorcycle accident lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm have successfully represented injured individuals and their families for decades. With exceptional litigation skills and powerful legal representation, our attorneys have recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients.If you or a loved one have been in a motorcycle accident due to someone’s negligence, turn to Falcon Law Firm to learn more about what damages you could seek in a motorcycle accident lawsuit. Contact us today using our convenient online form or call (732) 660-1200 for a free consultation.

Top 3 Reasons to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer

A large semi-truck with a blue cab speeds down a multi-lane highway.

Large commercial trucks are a crucial part of our economy, delivering products throughout the country 24 hours a day. However, they are also heavy and tricky to maneuver in highway traffic. Truck drivers are under pressure to complete their routes as quickly as possible, meaning they can overwork themselves or cut corners to travel faster. Mistakes they make can mean severe injuries from a collision involving you and your loved ones. When this happens, you need experienced help to access full compensation and justice.

If you need to speak with an attorney right away, call Falcon Law Firm directly at (732) 660-1200, or schedule your free consultation online. We are headquartered in New Jersey, and have nationwide reach when it comes to large trucking companies and corporations. 

Read on to learn what a settlement could cover in a truck accident case, and the top 3 reasons to hire a proven truck accident lawyer. 

An Attorney Can Help You Recover Non-Economic Damages

A lawsuit can cover both economic damages (financial losses) and non-economic damages (emotional, psychological, or quality of life losses). Here are some examples of each:

Economic Damages

Most survivors of truck accidents face large medical bills, the loss of their vehicle, and the potential of lifelong disability. It’s important to keep a record of all expenses to share with your attorney. 

Economic damages are often proven with documents such as:

  • ICU or ER bills
  • Medication or medical device prescriptions
  • Hospital and surgery bills
  • A record of lost wages when you can’t work
  • A calculation of loss of income potential if you’re disabled
  • The cost of property damage to your vehicle
  • Home health care receipts
  • The time and monetary cost of travel for medical treatment
  • Home disability accommodation expenses if you are severely or permanently disabled

Every case is unique, and your lawyer can advise you on your specific claim. Reach out to Falcon Law Firm at (732) 660-1200 to discuss your specific recovery needs and circumstances.

Non-Economic Damages

Although medical and other bills pile up quickly when you’ve been injured, other factors impact your life in less tangible ways. 

These are called non-economic damages, and they include:

  • Physical pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of companionship with your family and friends
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Loss of consortium with your partner or spouse
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Emotional trauma
  • Isolation due to scarring or disfigurement

A skilled attorney knows how to translate these intangible harms into terms a court can consider and decide on. The lawyers at Falcon Law Firm work with medical and financial experts to make sure that all of your losses are accounted for, not just the ones that come with receipts.

Another form of compensation may come from a wrongful death claim, if you are the surving family member of someone who lost their life due to a truck accident. Wrongful death lawsuits account for both economic losses (like loss of income), and non-economic losses (the loss of a person’s unique companionship and guidance).

Many trucking accident cases have resulted in very high jury awards in recent years. These are often called “nuclear awards” because they can be so large they essentially bankrupt a company. These are funds you can use to heal, provide stability, and build a brighter future.

Top 3 Reasons to Hire a Truck Accident Lawyer

Pursuing legal action may seem overwhelming at first, but the work of a lawsuit is your attorney’s job—not yours. Here are the top 3 reasons to hire a truck accident lawyer to represent you after a crash:

1. Trucks and Trucking Companies Are a Lot Bigger Than You

First, trucks are larger, heavier, and harder to handle than cars in bad weather or heavy traffic. They’re so enormous they can cause low-speed accidents on city streets. Add inexperienced or poorly trained drivers, and you have a recipe for severe damage.

After a truck accident, you face the trucking company if you pursue a claim against them. These nationwide and sometimes international organizations have deep pockets, but rest assured that trucking companies are not immune from the law.

You do not have to pay upfront to file a lawsuit against a trucking company. Our personal injury lawyers work on contingency fees, which means that we invest our time and resources into your case first, and are only compensated after we’ve achieved a victory for you and your family. We do this because we understand the financial difficulties faced by our clients after sudden, catastrophic accident injuries. We are here to relieve your burdens, not add to them.

2. Insurance Companies May Not Offer Enough Compensation

Dealing with an insurance representative is a negotiation, and since insurance companies are businesses, it’s their job to avoid paying out money if they can help it. Bringing your own representative to the table takes the pressure off you to prove your worth to an adversarial audience. Your attorney from Falcon Law Firm will prepare for negotiations as thoroughly as we prepare for a full trial.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case proceeds to trial. In some instances, requesting a trial can be an intimidation tactic by the other side, and individuals without representation worry about the cost and time of going to court. However, according to the U.S. Department of Justice’s Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), only 4-5% of personal injury cases go to trial, meaning that 95-96% of cases are settled pre-trial or before a verdict is reached (mid-trial).

Your attorney from Falcon Law Firm will see your case through no matter what the opposing counsel attempts to do. You need not be intimidated with our lawyers on your side.

3. There Could Be More to the Case Than Just a Mistake by the Driver

Unlike auto accidents between passenger cars or family sedans, commercial trucking vehicles can weigh as much as 80,000 pounds and measure up to 70 feet in length. While there are numerous causes of driver error, such as fatigue and distracted driving, there may be other factors that cause a truck crash, including:

  • The truck: Trucks have thousands of parts and materials that can malfunction or leak. Even the most conscientious driver cannot predict when a tire may blow, sending the vehicle out of control.
  • The cargo: Trucks haul large, heavy, and often hazardous materials. Freight could be flammable, toxic, or even alive (farm animals or active bacteria). When loads are unbalanced or shift during transport, flying debris can be deadly.
  • The environment: Unsafe roads and traffic debris could be responsibility of a city or county, while crashes caused the actions of other vehicles may include the responsibility of the other driver.

While it’s common to seek damages from the driver or trucking company, you can also file against other parties, such as product or vehicle manufacturers. You could also pursue cargo vendors who loaded their product incorrectly or another driver whose reckless behavior put the truck driver in a dangerous situation.


Your priority after a truck accident should be your personal health and the well-being of your family. Let our attorneys handle the legal work so you can heal in peace.

Contact the Truck Accident Lawyers at Falcon Law Firm 

Once a truck accident has impacted your life, the goal is to rebuild and make your life whole again. A settlement or damages verdict helps you move on by providing for high-quality medical care and financial stability for you and your loved ones.

Our truck accident lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm have successfully represented injury victims for decades. Our experienced attorneys have recovered millions in settlements and verdicts for our clients and their families.

Contact us today using our convenient online form or by calling (732) 660-1200 for a free consultation. We are ready to handle every aspect of your case so that you can move on to a better future as quickly as possible.

What to Do After a New Jersey Car Accident

Woman reporting a car accident

Getting into a car accident remains one of life’s most frustrating, confusing, and scary experiences. What happens immediately afterwards can significantly impact an insurance or personal injury claim. For that reason, every driver who crashes in New Jersey should follow certain protocols post-incident.

Assess for Injuries

Drivers should take a moment to determine whether they, any passengers, or involved pedestrians need immediate help. In most cases, injured people should not be removed from where they are. The only exception to this rule is when it would be safer for them to be moved away, as in the case of a car that was on fire.

Call Emergency Personnel

Even a fender bender can leave drivers and passengers shaken, if not visibly hurt. Someone should always contact 911 to report an accident in New Jersey if damage estimates will likely exceed $500. That way, the police and other emergency responders can offer their assistance. They will arrive on the scene and evaluate what happened. Medical teams can also examine anyone suffering from trauma.

Move Vehicles to a Safe Location

If possible, moving a car to a safer location lessens the likelihood that the stopped vehicles will become the cause of another accident. If the cars cannot be driven away from where they collided, safety cones, flares, and other equipment should be set up to alert other drivers coming into the area.

Exchange Information

Drivers need to be ready to collect information from each other, as well as any anyone who saw the car accident. This makes it easier to contact witnesses if an insurance claim is denied, or if victims want to pursue personal injury damages later.

Call Insurance Providers

A motorist who carries insurance should contact their insurance provider before leaving the scene of the accident. The insurance provider will then open a claim. Waiting too long to call an insurance carrier only makes it harder for the insured motorist. Under New Jersey’s no-fault law, drivers must seek compensation and damages from their own insurance companies first.

What happens in the case of a personal injury lawsuit after a devastating accident? In New Jersey, the laws governing accidents relate to comparative negligence. This means both drivers may be found at-fault. Drivers who file lawsuits must prove that they were not more than half at-fault, otherwise they will be awarded nothing by the courts if they file a suit. Personal injury attorneys routinely help clients navigate this complex system.

Document the Accident Scene

In the age of smartphones, practically everyone has a video camera to capture images and illustrate what the scene looked like at the time of the crash. Documentation like this can come in handy to prove fault later, especially if insurance providers argue over who should pay for what damages. Additionally, documentation always helps if victims with significant injuries pursue personal injury lawsuits.

Oakhurst Car Accident Lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm, LLC Work with Victims of New Jersey Car Crashes

If you were injured in a car accident, the Oakhurst car accident lawyers at the Falcon Law Firm, LLC can help. Call us at 732-660-1200 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Oakhurst, Parlin, and Aberdeen, New Jersey, as well as Doylestown, Pennsylvania, our attorneys represent clients throughout Belmar, Deal, Ocean Township, Point Pleasant, West Long Branch, Sayreville, Middlesex County, and Monmouth County, New Jersey, as well as Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

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