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Virginia Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Virginia Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Key Takeaways

  • Motorcycle riders face a higher risk of severe motorcycle accident injuries, often requiring immediate medical attention and long-term care.
  • A Virginia Beach motorcycle accident lawyer from Montagna Law can guide injured riders through complex personal injury cases and negotiations with insurance companies.
  • Acting quickly after a crash helps protect evidence, document treatment, and strengthen your claim for compensation under Virginia law.
  • Montagna Law has a proven track record of helping motorcycle accident victims recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
  • With more than 50 years serving Hampton Roads, Montagna Law provides compassionate legal support so injured riders can focus on healing and rebuilding their lives.

A motorcycle accident can be a devastating experience. In a single moment, a rider’s life can be turned upside down by painful injuries, emotional distress, and unexpected medical expenses. The recovery process can feel overwhelming, especially when insurance companies add pressure to settle before you know the full extent of your injuries.

If you or someone you love has been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Virginia Beach, Montagna Law is here to help. Our motorcycle accident attorneys have helped injured riders pursue the compensation they deserve while protecting their rights every step of the way.

How Montagna Law Helps Injured Motorcyclists Pursue Fair Compensation

Recovering from a motorcycle accident is rarely easy. Medical bills, lost income, and insurance calls can quickly become overwhelming. Having a knowledgeable Virginia Beach motorcycle accident attorney from Montagna Law by your side can help you navigate these challenges with confidence and care.

Our legal team works to build strong cases that reflect the full impact of your injuries. We gather evidence, handle insurance communications, and pursue fair compensation so you can focus on recovery.

Montagna Law has proudly represented motorcycle accident victims across Hampton Roads, including Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Newport News, Richmond, and Suffolk.

Why Injured Riders in Virginia Beach Choose Montagna Law

For more than 50 years, Montagna Law has served the Virginia Beach community, helping motorcycle accident victims seek fair compensation for their injuries and losses. Our attorneys provide the personal attention, open communication, and commitment every client deserves.

Why Virginia Beach Residents Trust Our Lawyers

Personal Guidance from Your Attorney, Every Step of the Way

At Montagna Law, you work directly with your attorney throughout your personal injury accident case. Your lawyer will handle every key detail, from collecting evidence and reviewing medical records to communicating with insurance companies on your behalf. This hands-on approach means your case receives the attention it deserves and that you always know where your claim stands.

A Legacy of Service and Trust in Virginia Beach

For more than 50 years, Montagna Law has earned the trust of injured motorcyclists and families throughout Virginia Beach and the surrounding Hampton Roads area. Our years of experience reflect both our commitment to the community and our understanding of local courts and personal injury law.

Client-Focused Representation Rooted in Compassion

Montagna Law handles every case with professionalism, empathy, and a focus on the client’s best interests. Our attorneys work to help injured riders recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and emotional harm.

Hear From Clients Who Have Worked With Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

“Montagna Law is by far the best law office for representation. They honestly care about your case and go far beyond the call of duty to represent you and ensure that you receive all that you are entitled to. They are professional, empathic, and responsive. I highly recommend the law offices of Montagna Law.” — Katie

“This law firm really cares about their clients and is willing to assist you with any type of case your bring them.” – Cara

“My family’s experience with Montagna Law was amazing to say the least. They were dedicated and determined to get the best outcome for my daughter. A huge shout-out to the entire team for all of their dedication and hard work!! I can’t thank you enough.” — Cynthia

Meet Our Virginia Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Attorneys

Why Work With a Virginia Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

After a motorcycle crash, insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or shift blame onto the rider. A Virginia Beach motorcycle accident attorney from Montagna Law can protect your rights and handle the complex legal details while you focus on recovery.

Your lawyer can:

  • Investigate the accident scene and gather crucial evidence.
  • Review medical records, police reports, and witness statements.
  • Calculate damages for medical expenses, lost income, and other losses.
  • Communicate and negotiate directly with insurance adjusters.
  • File a lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached.

Legal representation helps counter the bias motorcyclists sometimes face and supports your right to pursue fair compensation under Virginia law.

Get a Free Consultation From Montagna Law Personal Injury Attorneys

At Montagna Law, our motorcycle accident attorneys represent injured riders on a contingency fee basis. You will not pay attorney’s fees unless we recover compensation for you.

During your free consultation, an attorney will review the details of your accident, explain your legal options, and outline the steps for pursuing a claim within Virginia’s statute of limitations.

two people shaking hands in front of a judge

What Types of Damages Are Recoverable After a Motorcycle Accident in Virginia Beach?

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.

  • Economic damages include losses that are measurable, such as medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and lost income.
  • Non-economic damages include losses that are more personal and harder to quantify, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or reduced quality of life.

Both categories play an important role in determining the value of a motorcycle accident claim and reflect the physical, emotional, and financial challenges victims often face.

Pain and Suffering

Pain and suffering represent the emotional and physical impact of a motorcycle accident. This category of non-economic damages can include physical pain, emotional distress, post-traumatic stress, loss of companionship, and a reduced ability to enjoy daily life.

Because pain and suffering are more subjective than economic losses, they are often central to settlement discussions between attorneys and insurance companies.

Medical Bills

Medical expenses often make up a significant portion of a motorcycle accident claim. These costs can include doctor and hospital visits, diagnostic tests, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and transportation to medical appointments. In some cases, compensation may also cover the cost of in-home care or ongoing treatment needed for long-term recovery.

Lost Wages

Lost wages refer to the income you were unable to earn because of your injuries. Compensation may include pay missed while you were out of work and the loss of future earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to the same job or working full-time. In some cases, it may also account for lost benefits or retirement contributions.

Wrongful Death

If a loved one lost their life in a motorcycle accident caused by another’s negligence, certain family members may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Compensation can include medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, loss of financial support, and the emotional suffering caused by the loss of companionship.

Virginia Motorcycle Laws That May Affect Your Virginia Beach Accident Claim

Understanding Virginia’s motorcycle laws is important for determining liability and the value of your claim. Following these laws helps protect your rights and strengthens your case.

  • Licensing and endorsement: Riders must hold a valid Class M, M2, or M3 endorsement. Completing the Virginia Rider Training Program helps confirm legal eligibility and improve safety.
  • Helmet and eye protection: Under Virginia law, all operators and passengers must wear approved helmets. If the motorcycle does not have a windshield, goggles or safety glasses are also required.
  • Safety equipment and maintenance: Motorcycles must have working lights, mirrors, horns, and mufflers and must pass annual safety inspections.
  • Passenger and lane rules: Each passenger must have a separate seat and footrests. Lane splitting is illegal, but two motorcycles may share a single lane.
  • Insurance requirements: Motorcyclists must carry the minimum insurance coverage required under state law. Maintaining adequate coverage protects both financial security and claim strength.
  • Statute of limitations: Motorcycle injury claims generally must be filed within two years of the accident under Virginia law. Acting quickly helps preserve evidence and protect your rights.

Understanding Virginia’s motorcycle laws can be complicated, especially when recovering from an accident. The attorneys at Montagna Law are familiar with the state’s traffic regulations and how they can affect your motorcycle accident claim. Our team can review the details of your case, explain how specific laws apply, and help you pursue fair compensation for your injuries and losses. With offices throughout Hampton Roads, we are ready to provide the trusted legal guidance Virginia Beach riders need after a serious crash.

How Contributory Negligence Can Affect Your Motorcycle Accident Claim in Virginia Beach

a white car with its trunk open on the side of the road

Virginia follows a contributory negligence rule, which means that if an injured person is found even slightly at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering compensation. This rule makes proving fault especially important in motorcycle accident cases and personal injury claims.

To hold another driver responsible, your attorney must show that the other party owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused your injuries as a result. Insurance companies often use contributory negligence to try to reduce or deny valid claims, making legal representation especially valuable.

The attorneys at Montagna Law understand how to investigate motorcycle accidents, challenge unfair fault claims, and protect your right to pursue compensation under Virginia law.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Virginia Beach

Motorcycle accidents in Virginia Beach often occur because of another driver’s careless or unsafe behavior. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the likelihood of severe or fatal injuries.
  • Unsafe lane changes: Drivers may fail to check blind spots or signal before changing lanes, putting motorcyclists at serious risk.
  • Distracted driving: Activities such as texting, eating, or adjusting vehicle controls take a driver’s attention off the road and can lead to collisions.
  • Poor road conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, debris, and loose gravel can cause a rider to lose control, especially when drivers fail to adjust to road hazards.
  • Adverse weather conditions: Rain, fog, and ice make it harder for drivers to see and stop safely, increasing the danger for motorcyclists.
  • Rear-end collisions: Drivers who follow too closely or brake suddenly often cause crashes that leave motorcyclists with serious injuries.

Each motorcycle accident is different, but many could be prevented if motorists paid closer attention and shared the road responsibly.

Severe Injuries Riders Often Suffer in Virginia Beach Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are far more exposed than drivers of passenger vehicles, so injuries from motorcycle crashes are often more severe than other types of motor vehicle accidents. While every case is unique, some types of injuries occur more frequently than others in Virginia Beach motorcycle accidents. Some of the most common injuries include:

  • Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBI): These injuries can cause cognitive difficulties, memory loss, paralysis, or long-term neurological damage. Even with a helmet, riders are vulnerable to serious brain trauma that can affect daily life and independence.
  • Road rash: Severe skin abrasions caused by sliding across pavement.
  • Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or total paralysis, chronic pain, or loss of mobility. These injuries often require lifelong rehabilitation and care.
  • Fractured or broken bones: Broken bones are common in motorcycle crashes, especially in the legs, arms, and ribs. Some fractures may not heal properly, leading to lasting pain or disability.
  • Amputations: Severe trauma can result in the loss of a limb during the crash or surgical amputation afterward. Victims typically face ongoing medical costs for prosthetics and rehabilitation.
  • Internal bleeding (hemorrhaging): Internal bleeding can be life-threatening if not detected quickly. Because symptoms may not appear right away, immediate medical evaluation is critical after a crash.
  • Paralysis: Loss of motor function can occur when the spinal cord or brain is damaged. Paralysis may affect one limb or the entire body and can be temporary or permanent depending on injury severity.

Recovering from these kinds of injuries can take months or even years. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Montagna Law help injured riders pursue the compensation they need for medical treatment, lost income, and long-term support. With decades of experience serving Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads, our team is committed to guiding clients through every step of the recovery process with compassion and professionalism.

What Should I Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident in Virginia Beach?

The moments after a motorcycle crash can be frightening and confusing. Taking the right steps can protect your health and strengthen your future claim.

  • Move to safety: Get out of the roadway and away from traffic if possible. Your safety should always come first.
  • Call 911: Request medical assistance and law enforcement. Even if injuries seem minor, getting checked by professionals is critical for both your health and documentation.
  • Obtain a police report: Officers will document the scene, witness statements, and accident details. This report can be valuable evidence in your case.
  • Gather evidence: If you are able, take photos of the vehicles, injuries, and road conditions, and collect contact information from witnesses.
  • Notify your insurance company: Provide only basic facts about the accident and avoid making statements about fault.
  • Contact Montagna Law: Speak with a Virginia Beach motorcycle accident attorney before discussing the incident further with insurers. Your lawyer can handle communications, protect your rights, and guide you through the claims process.

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, Montagna Law can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Should You Speak With the Insurance Adjuster Without a Lawyer?

Insurance adjusters may seem helpful after an accident, but their main goal is to minimize what the insurance company pays. You are not required to speak with them directly or provide a recorded statement.

Before discussing your accident with any insurance representative, contact a Virginia Beach motorcycle accident attorney at Montagna Law. Your lawyer can communicate with the adjuster on your behalf, protect your rights, and work to prevent your claim from being undervalued or denied.

Who May Be Liable for a Motorcycle Accident in Virginia Beach

Determining who is responsible for a motorcycle accident depends on the cause of the crash and the evidence available. Possible liable parties may include:

  • Drivers of cars, trucks, or other vehicles.
  • Other motorcyclists or bicyclists involved in the collision.
  • Employers of negligent drivers, operating within the scope of their employment.

Under Virginia’s contributory negligence rule, if an injured rider is found even slightly at fault, they may not recover compensation. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Montagna Law can investigate your case, identify all responsible parties, and work to protect your right to fair compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Soon Must You File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Virginia?

Under Virginia law, injured riders generally have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim, as outlined in Virginia Code § 8.01-243. If the accident results in a fatality, certain family members may be able to bring a wrongful death claim within two years of the person’s passing, under Virginia Code § 8.01-244. Missing these deadlines can prevent you from recovering compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses.

What Should I Bring and Discuss During My Consultation With a Virginia Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

During your consultation, you can ask about the attorney’s experience handling motorcycle accident cases, how the legal process works, and what to expect from a contingency fee arrangement. Bring any documents that may support your claim, including:

  • Medical records and bills.
  • Police and accident reports.
  • Photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
  • Witness contact information.
  • Insurance and correspondence related to the crash.

Providing complete information allows your attorney to evaluate your case more accurately and explain your options for pursuing compensation.

How Long Does It Take to Settle a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Virginia Beach?

The time it takes to resolve a motorcycle accident claim depends on the complexity of the case, the severity of injuries, and how quickly the insurance company responds. Some claims settle within a few months, while others require more time for negotiation or litigation. Throughout the process, our personal injury lawyers keep clients informed and work diligently to pursue fair compensation without unnecessary delay.

Injured in a Virginia Beach Motorcycle Accident? You Pay Nothing Unless We Recover for You.

If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident in Virginia Beach, you do not have to face the aftermath alone. The attorneys at Montagna Law can review your case, explain your legal rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve under Virginia law.

Our team handles the legal process so you can focus on recovery and rebuilding your life. Call 757-622-8100 or fill out our online contact form today to schedule your free consultation with a Virginia Beach motorcycle accident lawyer.

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Written By Jon Montagna

Personal Injury & Maritime Law Attorney

Jon Montagna received a Bachelor of Arts in Literature from American University in Washington D.C. and graduated Cum Laude from the University of Miami School of Law in 1999. Jon practices law in the Hampton Roads, Virginia, area, focusing on personal injury, auto accidents, truck accidents, and more. Jon Montagna focuses on serving and achieving favorable results for his clients.