Being injured in a motorcycle accident in Trenton, ND can be an overwhelming and catastrophic experience. Motorcyclists are often unfairly blamed for crashes, receive lowball settlement offers from insurance companies, and face long-term hardships. Your priorities are to seek medical treatment and protect your rights. There are resources available in Trenton, ND, for excellent medical care and experienced legal advice.
At Pringle & Herigstad, PC, our Trenton motorcycle accident attorneys understand the stakes for a motorcyclist following a crash. Injured riders have medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses to pay. They may be out of work for weeks or months while they recover, creating a significant financial strain. You need and deserve to be compensated by the party that caused your motorcycle accident.
Local Injury Lawyers Serving North Dakota Riders for Over 100 Years
Our Trenton motorcycle accident attorneys fight for fair compensation for accident victims. We have recovered millions in personal injury settlements and jury verdicts for our clients. Our offices in Grand Fork and Minot serve all of North Dakota, including the areas in and around Trenton.
Contact Pringle & Herigstad, PC to schedule a free consultation with one of our Trenton motorcycle accident attorneys.
How Our Trenton Personal Injury Attorneys Help You After a Motorcycle Accident
Insurance companies often blame riders for causing motorcycle accidents. Adjusters downplay injuries and employ numerous tactics to undervalue claims. A motorcyclist is at a disadvantage when dealing with a powerful insurance company with limitless resources to fight claims.
At Pringle & Herigstad, PC, our North Dakota personal injury lawyers stand up for motorcyclists. We develop a personalized legal strategy for each injured motorcyclist by:
- Completing a thorough investigation of the accident to gather evidence supporting your claim
- Work with expert witnesses, including accident reconstructionists and medical specialists, as necessary
- Defend you against allegations of blame and comparative negligence
- Document your damages to fully assess how much your claim is worth
- Aggressively negotiate an insurance settlement based on your damages
- Manage legal proceedings and deadlines
- Identify all sources of compensation to maximize recovery
- Have a seasoned trial lawyer argue your case before a jury if a settlement is not in your best interest
With decades of combined experience, our lawyers possess the legal knowledge, resources, and expertise to handle complex motorcycle accident cases effectively. We work to counter unfair bias toward motorcyclists, prove negligence, and maximize damages. Our legal team also works to reduce stress for our clients by handling all aspects of their case so they can focus on their recovery.
Contact Pringle & Herigstad, PC today for a free case evaluation with a North Dakota motorcycle accident lawyer. We are here when you need trusted legal advice and help with a motorcycle accident claim.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Trenton, ND
According to the North Dakota Department of Transportation, there were 195 motorcycle crashes in 2023. About 90% of the reported motorcycle accidents resulted in death.
Negligence is one of the most common reasons for bike crashes in Trenton, ND. However, other factors can contribute to the cause of a crash. Common reasons for motorcycle accidents include:
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Distracted driving
- Following too closely
- Hazardous road conditions
- Poor weather
- Impaired driving from alcohol and/or drugs
- Defective parts and/or motorcycle systems
- Inadequate maintenance or repairs
The factors contributing to the cause of the crash help identify who is responsible for the damages. For example, if another motorist fails to yield the right of way and causes the crash, they could be liable for damages. Likewise, if a defective tire blows out and causes a crash, the manufacturer could be liable.
Understanding Motorcycle Accident Claims in North Dakota
North Dakota is a no-fault system for car accident claims. Most accident victims file a claim with their PIP provider. No-fault insurance pays benefits regardless of who is responsible for causing the accident.
However, motorcyclists are not required to purchase PIP coverage. Instead, riders must purchase insurance coverage in the amounts of:
- Bodily injury liability per person of $25,000 ($50,000 per accident)
- Property damage coverage of $25,000
- Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage per person of $25,000 ($50,000 per accident
Motorcyclists who have chosen to purchase PIP insurance may be entitled to benefits under their insurance policy. If another driver or party caused the motorcycle accident, the rider can pursue a liability claim against the at-fault party for damages. However, the North Dakota statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is six years. There are exceptions, so it is always best to seek prompt legal advice.
Learn What to Do When You’ve Been Injured in a Motorcycle Crash in Trenton
Knowing what to do when you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in North Dakota can help you receive the compensation you deserve. Steps to take after a motorcycle crash include:
- Report the accident to the police by calling 911
- Seek immediate medical treatment for injuries
- Document evidence at the accident scene by gathering eyewitness information, taking photographs, and making a video with your cell phone
- Keep copies of all documents related to the accident, including medical records, police reports, and any other relevant documents.
- Avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault for the crash
Seeking legal counsel early in the case increases your chances of a fair outcome. An accident attorney helps you navigate the complicated claims process to help you avoid making errors that could hurt your case. An attorney also knows the value of your claim and your rights, which makes it harder for the insurance company to take advantage of you.
What Compensation Can You Recover After an Injury in a Motorcycle Accident?
Personal injury claims for motorcycle accidents include various types of damages. Most damages fall into one of two categories:
Economic damages represent an injured party’s financial losses. An injured rider may receive compensation for:
- Medical expenses, including rehabilitative therapy
- Personal and/or nursing care
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Diminished earning capacity
- Lost wages and employment benefits
Injured motorcyclists may also claim non-economic damages for their pain and suffering. These damages include:
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life and quality of life
- Emotional distress
- Impairments and disabilities
- Mental anguish
In a lawsuit, the jury may award punitive damages if the injured party proves the other party’s actions were reprehensible or intentional. While punitive damages are rare, our attorneys thoroughly evaluate all cases to determine if they may be eligible for punitive damages, ensuring that we do not miss any potential compensation for our clients.
Denied Motorcycle Insurance Claim in North Dakota? Here’s What to Do
Insurance companies have teams of professionals to protect their best interests. It is in a company’s best interest to deny insurance claims and undervalue damages. For example, the company may accuse you of being responsible for the crash. The purpose is to decrease or eliminate damages under North Dakota’s modified comparative fault laws.
If an insurance company denies your claim, contact our office immediately for a free consultation. Likewise, if the company states or even hints that you could share blame for the accident, contact an attorney. Early legal intervention can protect you from unjust denials and unfair settlements.
Out-of-State Riders Injured Near Trenton, ND
Many areas in North Dakota attract riders, including the Williston Basin near Trenton, ND. Legal complications for visitors unfamiliar with North Dakota laws can hinder their chances of receiving fair compensation. Hiring a local personal injury lawyer is essential.
At Pringle & Herigstad, PC, we help out-of-town accident victims with claims. As local attorneys, we are familiar with the courts, judges, clerks, and attorneys. We handle all legal requirements for your case to minimize the time you may need to spend dealing with a claim.
You Deserve a Strong Advocate – Talk to a Trenton Personal Injury Lawyer Today
Motorcycle crashes can include head injuries, fractures, long-term disability, internal organ injuries, and disfigurement. At Pringle & Herigstad, PC, our team provides compassionate emotional support, professional investigations, negotiations with insurers, and steadfast representation for riders and their loved ones.
Learn more about how our Trenton motorcycle accident lawyers can help you. Contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.