A Former Rider And Firm Advocate For Motorcyclists
As a former motorcyclist himself, attorney Matthew L. McClellan knows the satisfaction and excitement of exploring Arizona on two wheels. An avid biker before attending law school, Matt spent much of his 20s taking in the state’s winding roads and breathtaking natural beauty and loved the camaraderie and connections he built with other riders.
However, Matt also understands the risks inherent to biking and knows that even the most careful riders can suffer serious injuries. When adverse weather or inattentive drivers cause a crash, the consequences for riders can be severe. J.D. Power reports that 80% of motorcycle accidents result in injury or death – and the chances of a motorcycle accident being fatal are some 30 times higher than in a car crash. If you have been involved in an Arizona motorcycle crash, The McClellan Law Firm, PLC, can push for the compensation you need to begin your recovery.
Personalized Strategies For Motorcycle Injuries
The McClellan Law Firm, PLC, provides compassionate, dedicated legal services for motorcyclists who have suffered a range of injuries, including:
- Head and brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Lost or damaged limbs
- Ruptured or damaged organs
- Spinal cord injuries
Matt also pursues wrongful death claims on behalf of those who have lost a loved one due to a motorcycle accident. He understands that your situation presents unique financial and treatment needs and will work with you closely to develop a strategy for litigation or negotiation that can meet those needs as efficiently and effectively.
Answers To Common Motorcycle Accident Questions
After a motorcycle crash, you may have urgent questions about deadlines, fault and your options for recovery. Matt understands how quickly insurance companies may try to blame riders, passengers or the riding lifestyle itself. The following answers address common concerns after an Arizona motorcycle accident:
How much time do you have to bring a motorcycle accident claim in Arizona?
In many Arizona injury cases, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit. If the accident caused a loved one’s death, the deadline for a wrongful death claim is also often two years. However, you should not wait until the deadline is close. Important details can be lost over time, witnesses may become difficult to contact and insurance companies often start preparing their defense soon after the accident.
Some cases may involve shorter notice requirements or special rules, especially if a government vehicle, unsafe road condition or public entity played a role in the crash. Matt can review the facts, identify the deadlines that may apply and help you take the next step before your right to seek compensation is at risk.
Can you still seek compensation if you were not wearing a helmet?
Not wearing a helmet does not automatically mean you lose your right to bring a motorcycle accident claim. Arizona law generally requires helmets for riders and passengers under 18. Adults are not required to wear helmets, though eye protection rules may still apply.
That said, the insurance company may still try to use helmet use against you. For example, it may be argued that your injuries would have been less serious if you had worn one. Matt knows these arguments can distract from the real issue: whether another driver caused the crash. He can study the medical evidence, accident facts and injury details to push back against unfair blame.
What rights do you have as an injured motorcycle passenger?
As a passenger, you may have the right to seek compensation if someone else’s negligence caused the crash. That may include the driver of another vehicle, the motorcycle operator or another responsible party. You do not have to decide on your own who was at fault before asking for legal guidance.
Passenger injury claims can feel complicated, especially if the motorcycle operator was a friend, relative or loved one. Matt can help you understand how insurance coverage may apply and what options may be available for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses tied to the accident.
Fight The ‘Wild Biker’ Stereotype And Get Justice
If you or your loved one has suffered from a motorcycle crash, contact The McClellan Law Firm, PLC. While defense attorneys and insurance companies will embrace the stereotype of reckless, wild bikers to deny you compensation for your injuries, Matt knows better. He will study the facts of your case, evaluate your goals and serve as a stalwart ally who fights for the financial support you deserve. For a free consultation, call him at 602-922-2529 or complete the online contact form.