A motorcycle crash can turn an ordinary day into a lifelong struggle. One careless mistake by a driver on East Cass St or I-80 can leave you seriously injured, unable to work, and facing mounting medical bills.
If you were hurt in an accident in Joliet, you have the right to pursue compensation. A Joliet motorcycle accident lawyer at Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates represents injured riders and their families throughout Will County. Our firm has spent more than a century standing up for hardworking Illinois residents who have been harmed by negligence.
If you’ve been injured while on a motorcycle, call (800) 985-1819 to schedule a free consultation.
Why choose Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates after a motorcycle accident?
After a serious motorcycle crash, experience matters. You need a law firm that understands the legal process, the tactics used by insurance companies, and the real impact an injury can have on your livelihood.
Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates has built its reputation by fighting for injured workers and their families. We know what’s at stake when someone’s ability to earn a living is suddenly taken away.
When you work with our Joliet law firm, you can expect:
- An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer handling your case
- No upfront costs—we work on a contingency fee basis
- Honest answers and consistent communication
- Strong advocacy against insurance companies
Case Results
$16.4 Million – Vehicle Accident Settlement
The jury awarded our client $16.4 million after defense attorneys failed to negotiate a settlement in good faith for a person who suffered severe brain and spinal cord injuries. The case went to trial, and the Horwitz trial team prevailed.
$1.3 million – Favorable verdict after injury dispute
After around four hours of deliberation, the jury unanimously awarded the plaintiff $1.3 million. The verdict recognized that her injuries extended well beyond eight months and compensated her for medical bills, pain and suffering, and loss of a normal life.
Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Client Testimonials
| ★★★★★ “Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates have been so amazing. They handled my case very professionally, and they were always calling me and making sure they had everything on file. I really loved working with them.” – M.J. |
| ★★★★★ “As a previous client of Horowitz & Horowitz, I would use them again, and I refer them to anyone who asks me if I know a lawyer. Working with them was a pleasure. They are professional and very prompt. They kept me informed every step of the way. You will not regret signing with Horowitz & Horowitz.” – P.H. |
| ★★★★★ “I am very happy I have Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates representing me. They have been very professional, and they have taken their time to explain step by step what will happen. I am very confident they are looking out for me. I absolutely will recommend them to my friends and family.” – Alfredo M. |
Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Joliet
Motorcycle accidents in Joliet often occur on roads locals travel every day. Imagine a rider heading through a green light on Jefferson Street when a driver runs a red light and turns directly into their path. With little time to react, the collision becomes unavoidable.
Crashes like this happen throughout Joliet, particularly along Interstate 55, Interstate 80, Route 66, and Larkin Avenue. Many involve cars or trucks whose drivers fail to see motorcyclists or misjudge their speed.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving, such as texting behind the wheel
- Drivers running red lights or failing to yield
- Unsafe lane changes and blind spot collisions
- Speeding and reckless driving
- Left-turn accidents at busy intersections
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Dangerous road conditions or poor maintenance
After a crash, a police report from the Joliet Police Department often serves as critical evidence in determining fault.
Common motorcycle accident injuries
Motorcyclists lack the protection of enclosed vehicles. As a result, the injuries sustained in these collisions are often severe.
- Traumatic brain injuries: Head trauma can affect memory, speech, and long-term independence.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spine may lead to paralysis or permanent disability.
- Broken bones: Fractures frequently require surgery and extensive rehabilitation.
- Road rash: Severe abrasions can cause infection and permanent scarring.
- Internal injuries: Organ damage may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening.
- Amputations: High-impact crashes can result in the loss of a limb.
- Burn injuries: Fires and friction can cause severe tissue damage.
Some motorcycle accidents end in tragedy. Families may be left grieving the loss of a loved one while facing sudden financial hardship. In these heartbreaking cases, a wrongful death claim can provide a path toward accountability and financial stability.
What to do after a motorcycle accident
The steps you take after a motorcycle accident can influence your recovery and your injury claim.
- Seek medical care immediately, even if you feel fine. Facilities like Silver Cross Hospital treat serious injuries.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions and attend follow-up appointments.
- Document your injuries and keep records of medical bills and lost wages.
- Request a copy of your crash report.
- Avoid speaking with an insurance company without legal advice.
- Preserve photographs, videos, and other evidence.
- Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible.
These actions help protect your rights and strengthen your case.
Who is liable in a motorcycle accident?
Determining liability is a key part of any personal injury claim. Illinois law allows injured motorcyclists to seek compensation from negligent parties.
Responsible parties may include:
- Drivers who fail to operate their vehicles safely
- Employers of negligent drivers
- Commercial trucking companies
- Manufacturers of defective motorcycles or parts
- Government entities responsible for unsafe road conditions
Motorcycle accident cases in Joliet are typically handled within Will County. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover compensation if you are less than 50 percent at fault. Any award is reduced according to your share of responsibility.
How the motorcycle accident claims process works
After a crash, insurance companies often move quickly to limit what they pay. Having an experienced attorney levels the playing field. At Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates, we handle every step of the legal process. And remember, you pay nothing unless we recover compensation.
From the start, our attorneys investigate the accident, gather evidence, review medical records, and consult with experts. When necessary, we work with accident reconstruction specialists to determine exactly how the crash occurred. We then negotiate with the insurance company and file a lawsuit if a fair settlement is not offered.
Depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be eligible to recover compensation for:
- Medical bills and ongoing medical care
- Lost income and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage to your motorcycle
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage, you may still recover compensation through uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance.
Why insurance companies blame motorcycle riders
Motorcyclists are often unfairly blamed for collisions. Insurance companies rely on stereotypes to reduce or deny claims.
They may argue that:
- The rider was speeding
- The motorcycle was difficult to see
- The rider contributed to the crash
- The injuries are exaggerated
An experienced Joliet motorcycle accident attorney knows how to counter these tactics with strong evidence and a clear legal strategy.
Motorcycle helmet laws in Illinois
Illinois is one of the few states without a universal motorcycle helmet law. Riders are not legally required to wear helmets.
Not wearing a helmet does not prevent you from pursuing compensation. While an insurance company may attempt to use this against you, Illinois law still allows injured riders to recover damages when another party is at fault.
Frequently asked questions about Joliet motorcycle accidents
How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates works on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing up front, and attorney fees are collected only if we recover compensation. Initial consultations are always free.
What if the driver says they didn’t see me?
Drivers have a legal duty to watch for motorcycles. Failing to see a rider often indicates negligence. Evidence such as witness statements and police reports can help establish fault.
Is it harder to prove fault in a motorcycle accident case?
These cases can be complex, particularly when bias against riders is involved. Strong evidence and experienced legal representation can establish liability.
What if I felt fine after the accident but later developed symptoms?
Some injuries, including traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage, may not appear immediately. Seeking prompt medical care protects both your health and your legal rights.
Can I file a wrongful death claim after a fatal motorcycle accident?
Yes. If a loved one was injured or killed due to another party’s negligence, surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim under Illinois law.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Illinois?
In Illinois, you typically have two years from the date of a motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim. Wrongful death claims are also generally subject to a two-year deadline. Failing to file within this statute of limitations may prevent you from recovering compensation.
Talk to a Joliet motorcycle accident lawyer today
A serious motorcycle accident can leave you facing medical bills, lost wages, and an uncertain future. You don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone.
Horwitz, Horwitz & Associates has spent more than a century fighting for injured riders across Will County and throughout Illinois. If you were hurt in Joliet, our personal injury attorneys are ready to help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call (800) 985-1819 today to schedule a free consultation, or contact us online to speak with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Joliet.
