When the rights of motorcyclists are equal to those of the drivers of cars, it would make sense that each group of travelers would be involved in a comparable number of collisions. However, in Phoenix and across Arizona, motorcycle riders disproportionately face the threat of accidents and, as a result, injuries that may occur. In a typical year, nearly 3,000 motorcycle accidents are reported in Arizona and the large majority of those result in injuries to the biker or bikers involved. Some also cause others, like those in cars, pedestrians in the area, or bicyclists, to sustain injuries or to lose their lives. Though the particulars may vary among different collisions, the results too often are the same: devastation to those who are involved and pain and suffering to the friends and family members of the victims.
Arizona law is designed to protect and benefit those who are hurt in motorcycle accidents across the state by allowing them to seek relief against anyone who caused them harm. By bringing a civil claim for damages, victims can obtain payment to place them in the position they would have been had they not been hurt as well as providing relief for non-monetary injuries like pain and suffering. These claims can be complicated and must be brought in accordance will all state and local laws so if you have been injured, you may want to speak with a personal injury attorney to learn about your options and your legal rights.
On Saturday, police in Peoria were informed of a collision between a vehicle and a motorcycle that left the biker critically injured. When they arrived at the scene near 75th Avenue and Thunderbird Road, they found the motorcyclist and ensured that he was taken to an area hospital for treatment. Unfortunately, the 60-year-old biker’s injuries were too severe and he died later on Saturday evening as a result of the crash.
The car that was involved in the accident reportedly was not at the scene when police arrived and neither was that vehicle’s driver. However, police were able to follow evidence left at the scene to the suspected car and its operator a short distance away. That driver was arrested and has been charged with leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in injuries; additional charges may be levied upon the completion of an investigation by local authorities.
Fleeing the scene of an accident without speaking with and being cleared by police or other officials is a crime in Arizona and can lead to serious charges and punishments. Often, this crime is coupled with other offenses that can compound the legal severity of a driver’s actions as well as the complexities of any resulting injury claims brought against that motorist.
The personal injury attorneys at Abels & Annes, P.C. have focused their practice on the representation of those who have been hurt by the actions of others, and if you or your loved one has suffered in a motorcycle accident, we want to help you as well. We offer a free case consultation without obligation to those who call us toll free at (855) PHX-LAWYER or locally at (602) 819-5191. We understand that you may need help outside of traditional business hours so we always have a lawyer standing by, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
When tragedy strikes, call the lawyers at Abels & Annes, P.C. and let us fight for the relief you deserve.
Prior Blog Entry:
At-Fault Driver Allegedly Admits Marijuana Use Prior to Tempe Crash, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published April 18, 2015.
Resource:
Peoria man dies in motorcycle accident, by Phil Benson, CBS5AZ.com, published April 19, 2015.