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Meet the Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at TorHoerman Law (THL)

Eric Terry is an experienced personal injury lawyer, leading our team of attorneys who represent Chicago motorcycle accident victims.

With extensive experience in personal injury law, Eric is recognized for his focused approach and dedication to achieving justice for motorcyclists injured in accidents.

He works closely with the team to deliver comprehensive legal strategies tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.

At TorHoerman Law, our attorneys combine their expertise with a collaborative approach to ensure effective and unique representation in every motorcycle accident case we take on.

We understand the heightened risks motorcycle riders face on Chicago’s roads and are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable for the harm they cause.

Our Chicago motorcycle accident attorneys provide dedicated support to help injured riders secure the compensation they deserve and move forward with their lives.

Our team of Chicago, Illinois motorcycle accident lawyers includes:

• Steve Davis: With over 30 years of legal experience, Steve Davis has devoted his career to representing individuals harmed through no fault of their own. His extensive litigation background and commitment to justice make him a strong advocate for car accident victims in the Chicago area.
• Jake Plattenberger: As a partner at TorHoerman Law, Jake Plattenberger leads the Chicago office with a focus on personal injury and complex litigation. Since joining the firm in 2009, he has conducted hundreds of depositions, argued in numerous hearings, and tried more than 35 cases to a jury.
• Chad Finley: Chad Finley brings over a decade of combined legal and medical knowledge to TorHoerman Law. His deep understanding of the impacts of serious injuries allows him to accurately assess damages and secure full compensation for victims. Chad is committed to ensuring that each client’s suffering is fully addressed and justly compensated.
• Tyler Schneider: As managing partner of TorHoerman Law, Tyler Schneider is central to the firm’s operations and success. With more than a decade of experience, Tyler uses his leadership and strong connections in Chicago to achieve the best outcomes for clients.
• Rachal Rojas: Rachal Rojas leads the intake and client support team at TorHoerman Law. She ensures every client is informed and supported from their first interaction with the firm. Her dedication to clear communication and client care is a cornerstone of the firm’s commitment to service.

Our Founder and Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney: Tor Hoerman

Tor Hoerman, the founder of TorHoerman Law, is a nationally recognized trial attorney with over two decades of experience in personal injury and mass tort litigation.

Throughout his career, Tor has been instrumental in securing billions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for individuals harmed through no fault of their own.

His leadership and dedication have established TorHoerman Law as a trusted advocate for victims of serious accidents and corporate negligence.

Tor approaches every case with a focus on delivering justice and meaningful results for his clients.

Beyond his courtroom success, he is committed to mentoring his team and fostering a collaborative, client-focused culture within the firm.

Tor’s passion for helping others is the driving force behind the firm’s mission to provide exceptional legal representation and support for those in need.

Our Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Get Results

At TorHoerman Law (THL), our commitment to achieving justice for personal injury victims is reflected in the results we’ve secured across a wide range of practice areas.

Our success is built on the dedication of our experienced legal team, who work to secure the maximum compensation for our clients.

These case results demonstrate not only our expertise but also our firm’s guiding principles: prioritizing client well-being, delivering personalized support, and achieving results that help rebuild lives.

Past personal injury settlements and verdicts achieved by TorHoerman Law include, but are not limited to:

• $495 million verdict against Abbott Laboratories in St. Louis court on behalf of our client’s child, who developed a serious gastrointestinal disease after being fed cow’s milk based infant formula.
• $1.5 million in compensation awarded for a car accident victim who suffered serious, life-altering injuries.
• $4 million secured for the family of a child who suffered a traumatic brain injury at a daycare facility.
• $800,000 in compensation awarded for a family whose child suffered abuse at a daycare facility.
• $100,000 secured for a man injured in a motorcycle accident at no fault of his own.
• $100,000 awarded to a person injured in a car accident.
• $300,000 secured for a person injured in a slip-and-fall accident.
• and countless other settlements and verdicts.

When you hire a personal injury lawyer from TorHoerman Law, you’re not only gaining the support of lawyers who deeply understand the process for Chicago motorcycle accident claims.

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

At TorHoerman Law, hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer costs you nothing upfront.

We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you only pay legal fees if we successfully recover compensation for your case.

If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing, ensuring there is no financial risk for you.

This structure allows victims to hire our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers to pursue justice and compensation without worrying about upfront legal costs.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Chicago

Motorcycle accidents frequently result in severe injuries that can leave riders unable to take immediate action at the scene.

These injuries, such as broken bones, spinal damage, or head trauma, often make it difficult for victims to gather evidence or communicate with law enforcement.

We understand that this can add stress to an already overwhelming situation.

At TorHoerman Law, our attorneys step in to handle these challenges, collecting critical evidence and making sure that legal processes are initiated on behalf of injured riders.

If you are able to, complete the following steps after a motorcycle accident occurs:

1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Call 911 and prioritize your health by receiving care for any injuries.
2. Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries.
3. Exchange Information: Obtain the names, contact details, and insurance information of all parties involved.
4. Gather Witness Details: Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the crash.
5. Request a Police Report: Ensure law enforcement files an official report and get a copy for your records.
6. Preserve Medical Records: Keep all medical documentation related to your injuries and treatments.
7. Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Reach out to an experienced attorney to handle the legal aspects of your case and pursue compensation.

Evidence in Motorcycle Accident Cases

Evidence is highly important in a motorcycle accident case, as it helps establish liability, prove the extent of damages, and support your claim for compensation.

Strong evidence can demonstrate how the accident occurred due to another driver’s negligence and identify the responsible parties.

Without sufficient evidence, insurance companies and opposing parties may dispute your claim or undervalue your losses.

An experienced attorney will collect and preserve key evidence to strengthen your case and advocate for your rights.

Evidence in a motorcycle accident lawsuit may include:

• Police Reports: Provide an official record of the accident, including details about fault and contributing factors.
• Witness Statements: Offer additional perspectives and corroborate your version of events.
• Photographs and Videos: Capture the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.
• Medical Records: Document the severity of your injuries and connect them to the accident.
• Surveillance or Dash Cam Footage: May show the collision and the moments leading up to it.
• Accident Reconstruction Reports: Expert analysis that helps determine the cause and dynamics of the crash.
• Vehicle Damage Reports: Assess the extent of property damage and its role in proving the force of impact.

Damages in a Chicago Motorcycle Accident Claim

In personal injury claims, “damages” refer to the financial and non-financial losses suffered as a result of an accident.

These damages aim to compensate victims for the harm they have experienced, from medical expenses to emotional distress.

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, leading to substantial medical costs, lost income, and long-term physical or emotional effects.

An experienced Chicago motorcycle accident attorney can help calculate these damages, ensuring that all current and future losses are accounted for in your claim.

Potential damages in a motorcycle accident lawsuit include:

• Medical Expenses: Covers costs for emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, medications, and ongoing treatment.
• Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost during recovery and diminished earning capacity if the injuries affect future employment.
• Property Damage: Includes repair or replacement costs for the motorcycle and other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Pain and Suffering: Accounts for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and injuries.
• Emotional Distress: Covers the psychological impact, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to participate in activities or hobbies once enjoyed.
• Disfigurement or Disability: Damages for permanent physical changes or disabilities resulting from the accident.

The Legal Process for Motorcycle Accident Claims in Chicago

The legal process for motorcycle accident claims in Chicago follows the personal injury framework outlined in Illinois law.

Under Illinois’ comparative fault rule (735 ILCS 5/2-1116), victims can recover compensation even if they are partially at fault for the accident, as long as their responsibility is less than 50%.

Illinois law imposes a two-year statute of limitations (735 ILCS 5/13-202) for filing personal injury claims, making timely action incredibly important in protecting your right to compensation.

Specific state traffic laws, such as those addressing helmet requirements and right-of-way violations, can also influence liability in a motorcycle accident case.

Working with an experienced attorney ensures your claim is filed on time and supported by the evidence needed to build a strong case.

A lawyer can guide you through the process, helping you seek fair compensation for your injuries and other losses.

The steps of the legal process for motorcycle accident claims in Chicago is as follows:

1. Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Consult an experienced attorney to evaluate your case and outline your next steps.
2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering: Your lawyer will collect evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements to establish liability.
3. File the Claim: A formal claim is submitted against the at-fault parties, including negligent drivers or insurers.
4. Negotiation for Settlement: Your attorney will negotiate with insurance company of the at-fault party to pursue fair compensation for your damages.
5. Prepare for Litigation if Necessary: If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will take your case to court and represent your interests.

Relevant Illinois Motorcycle Laws for Riders and Drivers

Illinois has specific laws in place to protect motorcyclists and promote safe interactions between riders and other drivers.

These laws regulate the behavior of both motorcyclists and motorists to reduce accidents and ensure accountability in the event of a crash.

Understanding these regulations can help riders stay safe and provide crucial context for personal injury claims following a motorcycle accident.

Key Illinois motorcycle laws include, but are not limited to:

• Helmet Laws: Illinois does not have a universal helmet law, but wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for rider safety. However, failure to wear a helmet may impact a personal injury claim.
• Eye Protection (625 ILCS 5/11-1404): Riders are required to wear protective eyewear unless the motorcycle has a windshield.
• Lane Usage (625 ILCS 5/11-703): Motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a lane, and other vehicles cannot deprive them of this right. Lane splitting (riding between lanes of traffic) is not legal in Illinois.
• Passenger Requirements (625 ILCS 5/11-1403): Motorcycles carrying passengers must have a seat and footrests specifically designed for passengers.
• Headlights and Taillights (625 ILCS 5/12-201): Motorcycles must have operational headlights and taillights at all times, including during daylight hours.
• Motorcycle Licensing (625 ILCS 5/6-103): Riders must have a valid Class M or L license depending on the size of the motorcycle.
• Traffic Rules and Right-of-Way (625 ILCS 5/11-1003): Motorcyclists are required to follow the same traffic rules as other vehicles and have equal right-of-way protections.
• Vehicle Equipment Standards (625 ILCS 5/12-602): Motorcycles must be equipped with functional brakes, a rearview mirror, and a muffler to meet noise and emissions standards.

These laws are designed to protect motorcyclists on Illinois roads while holding drivers accountable for safe practices.

Violations of these laws by either party can play a critical role in determining fault and liability in a motorcycle accident claim.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Chicago, Illinois (IL)

Motorcycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries that significantly impact a rider’s health, mobility, and quality of life.

The lack of physical protection leaves motorcyclists vulnerable to severe harm, even in low-speed collisions.

Motorcycle injuries often require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and can lead to permanent disabilities.

Understanding the common types of injuries helps victims recognize the importance of seeking immediate medical care and pursuing compensation for their losses.

Common injuries in motorcycle accidents include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Caused by head impacts, even when wearing a helmet, leading to cognitive impairments and long-term neurological effects.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Includes fractures or damage to the spinal cord, which can result in paralysis or chronic pain.
• Broken Bones: Commonly affecting the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis due to the force of the collision.
• Road Rash: Severe skin abrasions caused by contact with the road, which can lead to infections and scarring.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to organs such as the lungs, liver, or kidneys, often requiring emergency surgery.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, and ligament tears, which may limit mobility and cause ongoing discomfort.
• Psychological Trauma: Emotional distress, such as PTSD or anxiety, often develops after a serious accident.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Chicago, Illinois (IL)

Most motorcycle accidents occur due to driver negligence, creating dangerous situations for vulnerable riders.

Motorcyclists often face challenges such as reduced visibility, distracted drivers, and unsafe road conditions that increase the likelihood of collisions.

The high volume of traffic in Chicago, combined with the city’s busy intersections and unpredictable weather, further contributes to these risks.

Identifying common causes of motorcycle accidents can help victims understand what led to their crash and who may be held responsible.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Chicago include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, eating, or otherwise not paying attention can fail to notice motorcycles in time to avoid a collision.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers may fail to give motorcyclists the right-of-way at intersections, causing serious crashes.
• Blind Spot Accidents: Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see, making blind spots a frequent factor in accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces reaction times, increasing the severity of collisions.
• Lane Changes Without Signaling: Drivers changing lanes without checking for motorcycles can cause sideswipe accidents.
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug use impairs judgment and reaction times, endangering all road users.
• Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement pose greater risks to motorcyclists than other vehicles.
• Adverse Weather: Rain, ice, or fog can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, leading to accidents.

TorHoerman Law: Experienced Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Motorcyclists face heightened risks on the road due to their lack of physical protection and the actions of negligent drivers.

When accidents happen, the resulting injuries can devastate riders and their families, leading to physical pain, emotional distress, and financial strain.

The Chicago personal injury lawyers at TorHoerman Law help by advocating for injured motorcyclists, pursuing compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages to support their recovery and future stability.

If you’ve suffered a serious injury or if your loved one has tragically passed away due to a motorcycle accident or motorcycle collision, you may be eligible to file a motorcycle accident claim.

Contact an experienced Chicago motorcycle accident attorney at TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

Use the chat feature on this page for a free case evaluation to find out if you qualify for a motorcycle accident claim instantly.