Norfolk Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Motorcyclists are a familiar presence on Norfolk roads, from I-64 and I-264 to Hampton Boulevard, Military Highway, and the surface streets surrounding downtown and the naval base. Riding offers freedom and efficiency, but it also exposes motorcyclists to significantly greater risk than drivers of enclosed vehicles. When a crash occurs, the injuries are often severe, and insurance companies are quick to blame the rider rather than accept responsibility for unsafe driving by others.
At Montagna Law, our Norfolk motorcycle accident lawyers represent injured riders and their families with a clear understanding of both the legal challenges and the personal toll these crashes create. We know how motorcycle accidents happen, how insurers attempt to undervalue these claims, and how to build cases that reflect the true impact of a rider’s injuries.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Are So Dangerous
Motorcycles offer little physical protection in a collision. Riders are exposed to direct impact with vehicles, the roadway, or fixed objects, and even relatively low-speed crashes can cause life-altering injuries. In traffic-heavy areas like Norfolk, motorcycles face added risks from congestion, frequent lane changes, and drivers who fail to properly check mirrors or blind spots.
Many motorcycle crashes are not caused by reckless riding, but by passenger vehicle drivers who fail to yield, misjudge speed or distance, or simply do not see the motorcycle at all. Left-turn collisions, unsafe lane changes, and rear-end crashes are common scenarios that result in serious harm to riders.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Norfolk
Motorcycle crashes often stem from driver negligence rather than rider error. Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Drivers failing to yield the right of way at intersections or during left turns
- Unsafe lane changes or merging without checking blind spots
- Distracted driving, including cell phone use
- Following too closely in traffic
- Speeding or aggressive driving
Norfolk’s mix of commuter traffic, military vehicles, tourists, and commercial traffic increases the likelihood of these types of dangerous interactions between motorcycles and larger vehicles.
Serious Injuries Commonly Sustained in Motorcycle Crashes
Because riders lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle frame, motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries. These may include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, road rash, multiple fractures, internal organ damage, and permanent disfigurement. Recovery can involve extended hospitalization, surgeries, physical therapy, and long-term disability.
Montagna Law approaches motorcycle injury cases with a focus on both immediate and future consequences. Compensation must account not only for current medical bills, but also for future care needs, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, and diminished quality of life.
Insurance Company Bias Against Motorcyclists
One of the biggest challenges in motorcycle accident claims is bias. Insurance companies often attempt to portray riders as reckless, aggressive, or responsible for their own injuries. They may argue that the motorcyclist was speeding, lane-splitting, or “taking risks,” even when the evidence shows the crash was caused by another driver’s negligence.
These tactics are designed to reduce or deny compensation. Montagna Law understands these strategies and knows how to counter them with evidence, accident reconstruction, witness testimony, and a clear presentation of the facts. We focus on what actually happened, not on stereotypes about motorcyclists.
Virginia Motorcycle Laws and Liability
Virginia law treats motorcycles as motor vehicles, meaning riders have the same rights to the road as drivers of cars and trucks. Other motorists owe motorcyclists the same duty of care they owe anyone else. When that duty is breached and a rider is injured, the at-fault party can be held responsible for the resulting damages.
Virginia’s contributory negligence rules make it especially important to present a strong, well-documented case. Even small allegations of fault can be used by insurers to try to deny a claim entirely. Having an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who understands these legal standards is critical to protecting your rights.
How Montagna Law Helps Injured Motorcyclists in Norfolk
Motorcycle accident cases require careful investigation and early action. Evidence such as vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident scene data can disappear quickly. Montagna Law moves promptly to preserve evidence and build a comprehensive case.
Our firm has decades of experience representing seriously injured clients and a proven record of results. We pride ourselves on accessibility and personal attention. You know who your lawyer is, you can call anytime, and we meet with clients in person, by phone, or by video—whatever works best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still have a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
Yes. While Virginia law requires motorcyclists to wear helmets, failure to do so does not automatically eliminate a claim. The insurance company must still prove that not wearing a helmet caused or contributed to the accident or the specific injuries claimed.
Are motorcycle accident claims handled differently from car accident cases?
Yes. Motorcycle cases often involve more severe injuries, different accident dynamics, and insurer bias against riders. They require lawyers who understand both the mechanics of motorcycle crashes and the legal strategies used to defend them.
What if the other driver says they didn’t see me?
“Failure to see” is not a defense. Drivers are required to maintain a proper lookout and yield when necessary. Many motorcycle accidents occur because drivers fail to check blind spots or misjudge speed and distance.
What compensation can I recover after a motorcycle accident?
Depending on the circumstances, compensation may include harm such as medical expenses, lost wages, future loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, permanent impairment, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Speak With a Norfolk Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Norfolk or the surrounding area, you deserve representation that understands the unique challenges riders face. Montagna Law’s Norfolk motorcycle accident lawyers are committed to personal attention, clear communication, and results.
Contact Montagna Law today to speak directly with an attorney and learn how we can help you pursue full and fair compensation after a serious motorcycle accident.