Motorcycle Accidents in Phoenix
Arizona's year-round riding weather makes it one of the most popular states for motorcyclists - but that popularity comes with risk. Motorcyclists have virtually no structural protection in a crash, making them significantly more vulnerable to serious injury or death compared to occupants of enclosed vehicles.
At Hoxie Law, we understand the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face, including the bias riders often encounter from insurance companies and jurors. Joseph Hoxie personally advocates for every rider he represents.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Cause Severe Injuries
Without the protection of a steel frame, airbags, and seatbelts, motorcyclists absorb the full force of a collision. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) - even with a helmet, the violent forces of a crash can cause concussions and severe brain trauma
- Spinal cord injuries - which may result in partial or complete paralysis
- Road rash - severe skin abrasion that can require skin grafts and cause permanent scarring
- Broken bones and fractures - legs, arms, wrists, and collarbones are especially vulnerable
- Internal organ damage - blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding and organ failure
Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
- Left-turn collisions - a driver turning left across an intersection fails to see an oncoming motorcycle
- Lane-change blindspot crashes - cars change lanes without checking for riders beside them
- Road hazards - potholes, gravel, oil slicks, and debris that a car might drive over can be deadly for a motorcycle
- Lane splitting - while lane splitting occupies a legal gray area in Arizona, crashes during lane filtering can raise complex liability questions
- Dooring - a parked driver opens their door into the path of an approaching motorcycle
- Rear-end impacts - a motorcycle struck from behind can cause the rider to be thrown from the bike
Arizona Motorcycle Law & Your Claim
Motorcyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers on Arizona roads. Key legal considerations for your motorcycle accident claim include:
- Statute of limitations: You generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit in Arizona (A.R.S. § 12-542).
- Comparative negligence: Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule. If an insurer argues you were partially at fault (for example, for not wearing a helmet), your damages may be reduced but not eliminated.
- Helmet law: Arizona requires helmets for riders under 18 but not for adults. However, not wearing a helmet may be used by the defense to argue comparative fault for head injuries.
Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for their own injuries. Having an experienced attorney on your side from the start helps counter that bias and protect the value of your claim.
There is no fee unless we win. Call or text Joseph directly at (480) 896-1040.
