Arizona’s climate and scenery gives residents a huge incentive to ride a motorcycle. In the last 10 years motorcycle ownership has increased over 50% and over 1 million motorcycles were purchased in 2006. Motorcyclists in Arizona are among the most careful motor vehicle operators, knowing they must beware of other drivers, road hazards and other dangers on the road. Unfortunately, thousands of motorcycle riders in Arizona are hurt or killed due to the negligence of another driver or dangerous road conditions. Riders are less visible than motor vehicle drivers and motorcycles are less stable on the road. Injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents are typically more severe than most other motor vehicle accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that in 2004, the number of deaths per mile traveled on motorcycles was 34 times greater than in cars. In 2005 accidents involving a motorcycle and car constituted 50% of all fatal crashes.
In Arizona, liability in a motorcycle accident is based on comparative negligence. This means that the plaintiff’s recovery is reduced in a negligence-based claim upon the degree he/she contributed to the accident/injury. Strict liability is the standard in defective motorcycle parts. At Mostafavi, Marco & Wimmer we represent bikers with minor injuries as well as the families of those motorcyclists who have been killed.
When in a motorcycle accident ensure to comply with the police’s information request. Do not admit fault, just give the facts of the motorcycle accident. If possible, take photos of the scene and your injuries, and get the names/contact information of witnesses. Seek medical help as soon as possible and keep all your records and bills, as well as ancillary expenses such as loss of wages and replacement transportation.
Attorney Daniel Marco has been riding a motorcycle for over 30 years and understands the dangers. Dan currently rides a 2007 Harley-Davidson Heritage Softail Classic. He not only understands the riding community, but realizes that once injured in a motorcycle accident, the rider is more than just injured, he or she has lost a lifestyle.
