Have you or a loved one been injured in a motorcycle accident in Scranton? Contact The Slocum Firm today to schedule a free consultation. Our Scranton motorcycle accident lawyers can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve for your injuries.

In Scranton, local traffic laws aren’t just guidelines—they’re essential for the safety of everyone on the road, especially motorcyclists. When these laws are ignored, the consequences can be severe.  

Whether a driver fails to yield the right of way, misjudges a motorcycle’s speed, or does not understand lane-splitting rules, local traffic violations often cause devastating motorcycle accidents. Many motorcycle crashes could have been prevented if riders were more aware of how local regulations impact their safety. 

The Slocum Firm has seen how a simple violation of traffic rules can lead to life-altering accidents. That’s why our team of experienced Scranton motorcycle accident lawyers is dedicated to ensuring you fully understand the local traffic laws essential for keeping riders safe in Scranton. 

Here, we will discuss key traffic regulations in Scranton that every motorcyclist should know and how they influence legal proceedings and insurance claims in the event of a crash. 

By learning about the traffic regulations in Scranton, you can protect yourself from potential accidents and navigate the legal system more effectively if an incident occurs. 

Local Traffic Laws in Scranton

Understanding local traffic laws is crucial for motorcyclists in Scranton, PA. These regulations ensure road safety and play a significant role in determining liability in the event of an accident. Here are some of the traffic laws for motorcyclists in Scranton:

• Helmet Laws: Helmet laws are taken seriously in Scranton. All motorcyclists under 21 must wear a helmet. At the same time, those over 21 with either two years of riding experience or who have completed an approved motorcycle safety course may choose to ride without one. However, wearing a helmet is highly recommended as it significantly reduces the risk of severe injuries like brain injuries in accidents.
• Lane Splitting: Unlike some states, lane splitting is illegal in Pennsylvania. When changing lanes, motorcyclists must stay within a single lane and follow the same rules as other vehicles. Violating this law can lead to tickets and increased liability in accidents.
• Speed Limits: Adhering to posted speed limits is crucial for motorcyclists in Scranton. Exceeding speed limits, especially in residential areas or near schools, can result in severe penalties and increase the risk of motorcycle crashes.
• Right of Way: Motorcyclists must understand right-of-way rules. In Scranton, riders must yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and to other vehicles when merging or entering traffic. Failure to produce, particularly at intersections, can lead to severe accidents and make it difficult to establish liability.
• DUI Laws: Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited in Scranton. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. Motorcyclists caught violating this law face severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and possible imprisonment. DUI violations can also significantly complicate insurance claims and liability determination in accidents.
• Equipment Requirements: Pennsylvania law mandates that all motorcycles must have working headlights, tail lights, turn signals, and mirrors. Motorcycles must also be equipped with adequate brakes and exhaust systems that meet noise regulations.
• Vehicle Registration and Insurance: Motorcycles in Scranton must be appropriately registered with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and carry minimum liability insurance. Riding without insurance is illegal and can lead to significant legal and financial repercussions, especially if you are involved in an accident.

By familiarizing yourself with these local traffic laws, you’re avoiding tickets and actively reducing your risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident. In the unfortunate event of a crash, understanding these laws can also help protect your rights and strengthen your position in any resulting legal proceedings. 

Impact of Local Traffic Laws Violations on Fault Determination in Motorcycle Accidents

The role of local traffic laws in Scranton is crucial when it comes to determining liability and fault in motorcycle accidents. When an accident occurs, these laws provide the basis that legal professionals, insurance companies, and local courts use to establish who is at fault. Understanding how these laws impact liability can be vital when you’re seeking compensation. Here are some of the ways local traffic law violations can affect fault determination in motorcycle accidents:

• Right of Way Violations: If a motorcyclist or another driver fails to yield the right of way, this violation can significantly impact liability determination. For example, if a car driver ignores a stop sign and hits a motorcyclist, the driver will likely be found at fault due to the apparent violation of traffic laws. In such cases, the motorcyclist can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
• Speeding: Speeding is a common factor in many motorcycle accidents. If it’s proven that either the motorcyclist or the other driver exceeded the speed limit during the accident, they may be held partially or fully liable. Speeding violates local traffic laws and increases the difficulty of reacting to road hazards, making it a critical factor in liability cases.
• Lane Splitting and Improper Lane Changes: Lane splitting is illegal in Scranton, so a motorcyclist involved in an accident while lane splitting could be found partially or fully liable for the accident. Similarly, if a motorist changes lanes without signaling and causes an accident, they may be held responsible.
• DUI and Reckless Driving: Driving under the influence or engaging in reckless driving behaviors can lead to a precise determination of fault. In Scranton, such violations are taken seriously, and any driver found guilty of these actions at the time of an accident is likely to be held liable for damages. This can significantly affect the outcome of personal injury lawsuits and claims.
• Failure to Wear Helmets: While Pennsylvania’s helmet laws are not universal for all riders, not wearing a helmet when required can affect a motorcyclist’s ability to claim total compensation. If the motorcyclist suffered head injuries in an accident and wasn’t wearing a helmet, the insurance company or court may argue contributory negligence, potentially reducing the compensation awarded.

Local traffic laws in Scranton play a significant role in establishing liability in motorcycle accidents. Understanding these laws can help you protect your rights and ensure you receive fair compensation if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident.

How Traffic Laws Affect Claim Settlements

Traffic laws are crucial in determining the outcome of motorcycle accident claims in Scranton. Some of the ways traffic laws can affect claim settlements include:

• Contributory Negligence: In Pennsylvania, the concept of contributory negligence plays a significant role in claim settlements. If it is determined that you were partially at fault for the accident due to a traffic law violation, your compensation could be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your settlement could be reduced by 20%.
• Settlement Amounts: Adherence to or violation of traffic laws directly impacts the settlement amounts in motorcycle accident claims. If you strictly follow the rules, it’s easier to establish the other party’s fault and seek higher compensation. However, any violation on your part can lead to reduced settlement offers, making it essential to have a knowledgeable lawyer to advocate for fair compensation.
• Court Proceedings: Traffic law violations can affect how the courts and insurance adjusters perceive you. A poor driving record can diminish the credibility of your claims, potentially resulting in a less favorable settlement as your history may be used to argue that you are a higher risk or partially responsible for the accident.
• Settlement Duration: If violations are involved, the legal and insurance processes might take longer to resolve as additional investigations and legal proceedings are necessary. This extended timeline can delay your settlement and potentially increase your legal costs.

Understanding the impact of traffic laws on your claim can help you secure a fair settlement and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Benefits of Hiring a Scranton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents in Scranton can lead to complex legal situations, especially involving local traffic laws. Having an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer on your side can make navigating these legal complexities easier. Some of the benefits of hiring an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer include:

• Knowledge of Local Traffic Laws: A local Scranton personal injury lawyer will have in-depth knowledge of Pennsylvania’s traffic laws and how they affect your case. This expertise is crucial when arguing your case, as understanding local laws can make the difference between winning and losing a claim.
• Handling Legal Procedures: The legal process after a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, involving multiple steps such as filing claims, gathering evidence, and dealing with court procedures. A lawyer will manage these tasks, ensuring that all legal procedures are followed correctly and that your rights are protected throughout the process. From dealing with medical professionals to navigating property damage, they’ll guide you through the complexities of personal injury law every step of the way.
• Accurate Fault Determination: Determining fault in a motorcycle accident is not always straightforward, especially when traffic laws have been violated. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation, gathering police reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimonies to build a strong case on your behalf. They’ll also work with accident reconstruction specialists and other experts to establish liability and demonstrate how the other party’s traffic violations contributed to the accident. This helps you pursue the total compensation you deserve.
• Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by disputing claims, especially if there are any traffic law violations involved. A lawyer is skilled in negotiation tactics and will work tirelessly to achieve a fair settlement. They will not only seek compensation for your immediate expenses but also for future costs such as ongoing medical treatment, physical therapy, and any future medical care required due to the accident.
• Legal Representation in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will represent you in court. They’ll present your case to a judge or jury, using their knowledge of local traffic laws and legal procedures to advocate for your rights. Legal representation is especially crucial if the other party disputes liability or if the insurance company denies your claim.
• Protecting Your Rights: After a motorcycle accident, protecting your legal rights is essential. A lawyer will ensure that you meet all legal deadlines, such as the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit, and that your case is handled correctly. They’ll also advise you on what to say and do following the accident to avoid jeopardizing your claim.

By choosing to work with a legal professional, you can focus on your recovery while knowing that your legal and financial interests are being expertly managed.

Contact a Scranton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Scranton, PA, don’t navigate the complex world of traffic laws and insurance claims alone. Our experienced Scranton motorcycle accident lawyers at The Slocum Firm are committed to helping motorcycle accident victims like you navigate Scranton’s complex legal system. Whether your accident was caused by a distracted driver, failure to yield, or another violation of local traffic laws, our team is ready to protect your interests. 

We understand the unique challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims, including severe injuries, emotional distress, and financial support needs. Our Scranton personal injury law firm has a track record of client satisfaction. With years of experience in handling personal injury claims and lawsuits related to motorcycle accidents, we’re well-equipped to navigate the complexities of your case. 

Our local motorcycle accident attorneys will investigate your accident, gather crucial evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. We will help you establish liability even in complex cases involving multiple parties. Don’t let confusion about local traffic laws or insurance tactics diminish your claim. 

You deserve justice and fair compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages. Let us fight for you while you focus on your recovery. Call us today at 570-209-7376 for a free consultation.