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The #1 Collinsville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Injured in a Motorcycle Crash in Collinsville? Our Collinsville Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Can Help You

A Collinsville motorcycle accident lawyer from Gianaris Trial Lawyers can help you pursue full compensation if you’ve been injured in a crash caused by another driver’s negligence.

Our experienced legal team builds strong cases, deals with insurance companies, and fights for the justice motorcycle accident victims deserve.

Contact us today to find out if you qualify for a motorcycle accident claim.

Collinsville Illinois

Our Law Firm is Dedicated to Helping Motorcycle Accident Victims Seek Justice and Compensation

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle wreck in Collinsville, you may be facing serious injuries that affect every part of your life.

Unlike a typical car accident, motorcycle crashes often result in devastating injuries due to the lack of protection for motorcycle riders.

From broken bones to traumatic brain injuries, the physical and financial toll can be overwhelming.

Filing a personal injury claim may be the only way to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

An experienced lawyer from Gianaris Trial Lawyers can help you through the legal process, deal with the insurance provider, and build a strong case on your behalf.

Our team prepares every case for trial, putting pressure on the opposition to offer a fair settlement.

We understand the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face and fight for the maximum compensation available under Illinois law.

If you or a loved one has been hurt while riding, we’re ready to help you move forward.

Contact Gianaris Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation with our team of personal injury lawyers.

You can also use the chat feature on this page for an instant case evaluation and to get in touch with our experienced motorcycle accident law firm.

We’re here to help you.

Need Help from an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney? Meet Our Team

At Gianaris Trial Lawyers, our attorneys bring decades of courtroom experience and a deep commitment to protecting injured riders throughout Illinois.

Motorcycle accident cases often involve complex legal questions, catastrophic injuries, and biased assumptions about motorcyclists—which is why you need a personal injury law firm that prepares every case as if it’s going to trial.

Whether the crash involved a distracted motorist, a road hazard, or a negligent driver, we know how to prove negligence, build compelling evidence, and pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

We understand that a motorcycle collision can result in far more than physical pain—it often brings financial hardship, emotional trauma, and, in the worst cases, wrongful death.

That’s why we fight for every client as if their future depends on the outcome—because it often does.

Our Collinsville motorcycle accident lawyers include:

  • Ted Gianaris – Founding attorney and seasoned trial lawyer with decades of experience in catastrophic injury litigation, including high-impact motorcycle and transportation cases.
  • Joshua A. Edelson – Focused on complex personal injury and insurance litigation, Josh has secured substantial results for victims of motorcycle crashes and vehicle collisions.
  • Suvir Dhar – Brings a compassionate, detail-driven approach to clients suffering severe injuries, with a strong background in representing victims of negligence.
  • Dirk Hennessey – Litigates serious accident and injury cases, including motorcycle and transportation-related claims, with deep trial and appellate experience.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney from Gianaris Trial Lawyers?

At Gianaris Trial Lawyers, we represent motorcycle accident victims on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case.

Our fee is collected only after we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor, so there’s no upfront financial burden.

This arrangement ensures that anyone injured in a motorcycle collision has access to strong legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

It also means our priorities are fully aligned with yours—we only succeed if you do.

From start to finish, we handle the legal fight while you focus on healing, rebuilding, and moving forward.

Whether you’re facing overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, or long-term trauma, we’re here to help you seek justice and full compensation.

The Legal Process for a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Collinsville, IL

Unlike a typical automobile accident, motorcycle crashes often lead to more severe injuries and more challenging legal battles.

Most motorcycle accidents are caused by a careless driver who fails to yield, misjudges speed or distance, or simply doesn’t see the rider.

Because motorcycles offer less protection than cars, when a victim suffers serious injuries or permanent impairment, the stakes in these cases are extremely high.

An insurance claim may not be enough to cover the full extent of medical costs, lost wages, and long-term impact.

Insurance companies often try to shift blame onto the motorcyclist or downplay the seriousness of their injuries.

That’s why it’s essential to work with a personal injury lawyer who has experience handling motorcycle cases and pushing back against unfair tactics.

At Gianaris Trial Lawyers, we build every case for trial, not settlement—so our clients are in the strongest possible position from the beginning.

Whether you’re dealing with serious injuries or a wrongful death claim, we help you pursue full compensation while you focus on recovery.

The legal process for a motorcycle accident case in Illinois typically includes:

  1. Consult a Collinsville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Your attorney will review the facts of your case, determine who is at fault, and evaluate the full scope of damages you’ve suffered.
  2. Investigation and Evidence Collection: Your legal team will gather police reports, medical records, crash scene photos, helmet and gear damage, and witness statements to build your case.
  3. Negotiation with the Insurance Adjuster: Your lawyer will handle all communication with the insurance company representing the careless driver, and negotiate for fair compensation.
  4. Filing a Lawsuit (if necessary): If a settlement isn’t reached, your attorney will file a formal lawsuit to pursue damages in court.
  5. Pre-Trial Process: This includes depositions, expert evaluations, legal motions, and possibly mediation before the case reaches trial.
  6. Trial and Judgment: If your case proceeds to trial, a judge or jury will review the evidence and determine liability, awarding damages based on the victim’s suffering, financial loss, and impact of the accident.

Gathering Evidence for a Motorcycle Accident Personal Injury Case

Motorcycle accident victims often suffer serious or life-threatening injuries that make it impossible to collect evidence at the scene.

Unlike car drivers, motorcyclists have little physical protection, which increases the likelihood of being transported to the hospital before they can document anything.

Our attorneys step in quickly to investigate the crash, secure critical evidence, and ensure nothing is lost or overlooked.

We work with experts, review official reports, and reconstruct the accident to build the strongest case possible on your behalf.

Evidence in a motorcycle accident claim may include:

  • Police accident report and officer observations
  • Photos or video of the crash scene, vehicle positions, and road conditions
  • Surveillance or traffic camera footage
  • Helmet, riding gear, and motorcycle damage analysis
  • Medical records detailing injuries and treatment
  • Eyewitness statements and contact information
  • Cell phone records or toxicology results from the at-fault driver
  • Crash reconstruction expert analysis
  • Insurance communication and claim documentation
  • Documentation of lost wages and future earning limitations
  • Pain journal or personal statement detailing the physical and emotional impact

Types of Damages in Motorcycle Accident Cases

Our motorcycle accident lawyers work closely with every client to assess the full extent of harm caused by the crash—both physically and financially.

We evaluate immediate and long-term needs, including medical treatment, lost income, and the personal toll the injuries have taken.

Most motorcycle accident victims face lasting consequences, from chronic pain to permanent disability, and their compensation should reflect that reality.

By calculating both economic and non-economic damages, we fight to secure the maximum compensation an injured motorcyclist deserves.

Damages in a motorcycle accident claim:

  • Medical expenses for emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, and future treatment needs
  • Lost wages from missed work during recovery
  • Loss of earning capacity if the injuries affect future employment
  • Property damage for the repair or replacement of the damaged motorcycle and gear
  • Pain and suffering from physical injuries and prolonged recovery
  • Emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and trauma
  • Non-economic damages such as loss of enjoyment of life or permanent disfigurement
  • Out-of-pocket expenses for medications, assistive devices, or transportation
  • Wrongful death damages for surviving family members in fatal motorcycle crash cases

Illinois Motorcycle Laws

Illinois has clear regulations in place for motorcycle riders to promote safety and legal compliance on the road.

All motorcycle operators must have a valid Class M endorsement on their license, which can be earned by passing written and skills tests or completing an approved training course.

While helmets are not required by law, riders must wear protective eye gear unless their motorcycle has a full windscreen.

The state also prohibits lane splitting, and violating this rule may lead to misdemeanor or even felony charges if an injury occurs.

Motorcycles must be equipped with specific safety features, and riders are required to carry minimum liability insurance.

Key motorcycle laws in Illinois include:

  • Riders must have a Class M license endorsement
  • Helmets are not mandatory, but eye protection is required without a windscreen
  • Lane splitting is illegal and punishable by law
  • Motorcycles must have:
    • Headlamp(s) and tail lamp
    • Working brakes on both wheels
    • Rearview mirror, horn, and turn signals (if manufactured after 1972)
  • Riders must carry minimum insurance coverage:
    • $25,000 for injury or death of one person
    • $50,000 for injury or death of two or more people
    • $20,000 for property damage

Common Causes and Types of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often occur because drivers fail to watch for motorcycles or misjudge their speed and distance.

Even a small mistake by a car or truck driver can cause a collision that results in devastating consequences for a motorcyclist.

Poor road conditions, aggressive driving, and distracted behavior are frequent contributing factors.

In many cases, the crash could have been avoided if the other party had followed traffic laws or exercised basic caution.

Our attorneys investigate the root cause of each crash to determine who was at fault and how it occurred.

Understanding the most common types and causes of motorcycle accidents helps us build stronger cases and hold negligent parties accountable.

Common causes and types of motorcycle accidents include:

  • Left-turn collisions, where a car turns in front of an oncoming motorcycle
  • Rear-end crashes caused by distracted or speeding drivers
  • Lane change accidents when a driver fails to check blind spots or signal
  • Head-on collisions, often occurring on rural roads or two-lane highways
  • Sideswipe accidents during merging or lane-splitting situations
  • Dooring accidents, where a parked driver opens their door into a motorcyclist’s path
  • Drunk driving or drugged driving
  • Crashes involving distracted driving, including texting or using a GPS
  • Speed-related accidents, either from the motorcyclist or another driver
  • Hazardous road conditions, such as loose gravel, potholes, or poor signage
  • Defective motorcycle parts or mechanical failure
  • Multi-vehicle pileups, where motorcyclists are caught between larger vehicles
  • Weather-related accidents involving reduced visibility or slippery surfaces

When is Somebody Considered a “Negligent Driver”?

A person is considered a negligent driver when they fail to use reasonable care while operating a vehicle, putting others at risk of harm.

This can include actions like speeding, running red lights, texting while driving, or failing to yield to a motorcyclist.

In the context of motorcycle accidents, negligence often occurs when drivers don’t check blind spots or misjudge a rider’s distance before turning or merging.

To hold someone legally responsible for your injuries, your lawyer must prove that their careless behavior directly caused the crash and your resulting harm.

Establishing negligence is a key part of building a successful motorcycle accident claim and recovering compensation.

Common Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious, life-changing injuries due to the lack of physical protection for the rider.

Even at low speeds, a crash can throw a rider from the bike, causing direct impact with the road or other vehicles.

Many injuries require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and long-term lifestyle changes. Some may lead to permanent disability, chronic pain, or emotional trauma.

These injuries not only impact physical health but also affect work, relationships, and quality of life.

Types of motorcycle accident injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), including concussions, brain hemorrhages, and other head injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries, which can result in partial or complete paralysis
  • Broken bones and fractures, especially in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis
  • Road rash, or deep skin abrasions caused by sliding across the pavement
  • Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding
  • Neck and back injuries, including herniated discs and nerve damage
  • Facial injuries, including jaw fractures, dental trauma, and eye damage
  • Amputations or loss of limb function, often due to crush injuries
  • Burn injuries, from fires, hot engine parts, or chemical spills
  • Lacerations and deep cuts, often caused by shattered glass or metal debris
  • Joint injuries, such as torn ligaments or dislocations in the knees and shoulders
  • Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety

The Importance of Medical Documentation in a Personal Injury Lawsuit

Medical documentation is one of the most critical pieces of evidence in any personal injury lawsuit, especially after a serious motorcycle crash.

It creates a clear link between the accident and the injuries you suffered, helping to prove that your medical issues are a direct result of the collision.

Motorcycle injury lawyers rely on detailed records—such as hospital reports, diagnostic scans, and treatment notes—to demonstrate the severity and long-term impact of your injuries.

These records also help quantify damages by showing the cost of care, ongoing treatment needs, and future medical expenses.

Without strong medical documentation, it becomes much harder to pursue full and fair financial compensation.

Consistent treatment and accurate record-keeping can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Gianaris Trial Lawyers: Your Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

At Gianaris Trial Lawyers, we understand the unique challenges that motorcycle accident victims face—severe injuries, financial pressure, and an uphill battle with insurance companies.

Our team is committed to fighting for your rights, proving negligence, and pursuing the full compensation you need to recover and rebuild.

We approach every case with the focus and intensity it deserves, and we don’t back down from difficult legal fights.

Whether you’ve been injured in a serious crash or lost a loved one in a fatal accident, we’re here to stand by your side with experience, compassion, and trial-tested strategy.

If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, contact Gianaris Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation.

Let our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers help you take the next step toward justice and financial recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in Collinsville, Illinois?

    At Gianaris Trial Lawyers, we represent motorcycle accident victims on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay us unless we win your case.

    Our fee is collected only after we secure a settlement or verdict in your favor, so there’s no upfront financial burden.

    This arrangement ensures that anyone injured in a motorcycle collision has access to strong legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

    It also means our priorities are fully aligned with yours—we only succeed if you do.

    From start to finish, we handle the legal fight while you focus on healing, rebuilding, and moving forward.

    Whether you’re facing overwhelming medical bills, lost wages, or long-term trauma, we’re here to help you seek justice and full compensation.

  • What is the difference between a motorcycle accident lawsuit and a motorcycle accident claim?

    A motorcycle accident claim is typically filed with the at-fault party’s insurance company after a motor vehicle accident, aiming to recover compensation without going to court.

    A motorcycle accident lawsuit, on the other hand, is a formal legal action filed in civil court when a fair settlement cannot be reached through the claims process.

    While both aim to compensate the injured rider, lawsuits are more complex and may involve a trial and legal discovery.

    Key differences between a claim and a lawsuit:

    • A claim is an out-of-court request for compensation, usually resolved through negotiation.
    • A lawsuit is a formal legal action filed in court when the claim process fails or is denied.
    • Claims are typically faster and less costly but may result in lower settlements.
    • Lawsuits allow for greater investigation, discovery, and potentially higher compensation through a verdict.
    • Both processes arise from a motor vehicle accident, but the legal strategies and timelines differ.
  • When should I contact a motorcycle accident attorney?

    You should contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible after receiving medical attention for your injuries.

    Early legal guidance helps protect your rights, preserve crucial evidence, and prevent you from saying or doing anything that could harm your case.

    Insurance companies often move quickly to minimize payouts, and having an attorney on your side ensures that you’re not taken advantage of during the claims process.

    An experienced lawyer can also assess the full value of your case and help you pursue the maximum compensation available for your losses.

  • What should I avoid doing after a motorcycle accident?

    What you do after a motorcycle wreck can have a major impact on your ability to file a successful injury claim.

    Certain actions—or lack of action—can weaken your case, delay your recovery, or allow the insurance provider to reduce or deny compensation.

    Being aware of these common mistakes can help you protect your rights and strengthen your claim.

    Here are things to avoid after a motorcycle accident:

    • Don’t leave the scene without calling law enforcement
    • Don’t refuse medical attention or delay your first exam
    • Don’t admit fault or make speculative statements at the scene
    • Don’t speak to the other party’s insurance provider without legal representation
    • Don’t post about the motorcycle wreck on social media
    • Don’t throw away or lose track of medical bills and repair estimates
    • Don’t ignore follow-up medical care or fail to document your symptoms
    • Don’t try to handle the injury claim alone—contact a lawyer for guidance

    Avoiding these missteps can help you build a strong case and improve your chances of a full financial recovery.

  • How is a motorcycle accident case different from a car accident case?

    Motorcycle accident cases are often more complex and more serious than a typical car accident due to the heightened risk of injury and bias against motorcyclists.

    Victims are more likely to suffer severe or permanent injuries, which means higher medical costs and more long-term consequences.

    An insurance company may try to downplay your injuries or shift blame, assuming you were riding recklessly—even when the evidence shows otherwise.

    That’s why working with experienced motorcycle accident lawyers is essential.

    A skilled personal injury attorney understands the unique challenges of motorcycle cases and knows how to build a strong claim that pushes back against unfair tactics and helps you pursue the full compensation you deserve.

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Ted Gianaris

With nearly 30 years of legal experience, Attorney Ted Gianaris has secured over $36 million in compensation for Illinois injury victims, car accident victims, and surviving family members of wrongful death victims.

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and attorneys at Gianaris Trial Lawyers and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced Illinois injury lawyer, Ted Gianaris, you can do so here.

Gianaris Trial Lawyers does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact us. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.

Additional Resources

Other cases we handle in Collinsville
You can learn more about other cases we handle in Collinsville below:
Collinsville Truck Accident Lawyer
Collinsville Car Accident Lawyer
Personal Injury Lawyer Collinsville, Illinois
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