Motorcycle Accidents

Determining fault in a motorcycle accident involves evaluating all available evidence to identify who acted negligently. In Pennsylvania, we operate under a comparative negligence system, which means each party’s level of fault affects compensation. You can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, as long as your responsibility doesn’t exceed 50%. 

We work with accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and investigators to establish liability. We review police reports, eyewitness accounts, dash cam footage, and physical evidence like skid marks or damage patterns. Sometimes, we uncover liability with third parties- such as a government agency for a poorly maintained road or a mechanic for faulty bike repairs.

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we’ve seen every kind of defense tactic imaginable and know how to disprove them. We work relentlessly to ensure the responsible parties are held accountable and that you’re not unfairly blamed. Your safety was compromised- our job is to make sure the truth comes out.

Motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to several forms of compensation, often referred to as “damages.” At our firm, we make sure no stone is left unturned when calculating the value of your case.

You may receive compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of life’s pleasures
• Emotional distress
• Property damage to your bike and gear
• Scarring or disfigurement
• Wrongful death damages (if a loved one was lost)

Insurance companies often undervalue these claims or pressure victims into accepting fast, lowball settlements. With over 100 years of collective experience, we know how to accurately assess and maximize your compensation based on the severity of your injuries, your recovery time, and how your life has been impacted. We consult medical experts and financial specialists to make sure you get what you truly deserve- not just what the insurer is willing to offer.

In Pennsylvania, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including motorcycle accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. If you’re filing a wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one, the same two-year period typically applies. 

However, waiting until the deadline approaches is risky. Critical evidence- like surveillance footage, skid marks, or witness memories- can be lost or degrade over time. Additionally, some cases may involve claims against a government entity (e.g., due to road hazards), which may require much shorter notice, sometimes as little as six months.

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we recommend contacting an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence, build your case, and prevent insurers from taking advantage of you during a vulnerable time. We’ll ensure all paperwork and filings are completed correctly and on time, so you don’t miss your window for justice.

Not all motorcycle accident cases go to court, but we prepare every single case as if it will. That level of readiness gives us powerful leverage during negotiations with insurance companies.

In many instances, we are able to secure full and fair settlements through strategic negotiation and aggressive representation. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer what your claim is truly worth, we will not hesitate to take your case to trial. 

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, our attorneys are trial-tested and courtroom-proven. We’ve recovered millions for injured riders across Lancaster County and beyond, both in and out of the courtroom. If a jury is necessary to get you justice, we’ll fight tirelessly to make sure your voice is heard and your suffering is acknowledged.

Yes, you can still recover compensation even if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. Pennsylvania law requires riders under 21 and those with less than two years of licensed riding experience to wear a helmet, but if you’re over 21 and meet the legal exceptions, helmet use is optional. 

That said, not wearing a helmet could impact your claim if your head or facial injuries could have been reduced or avoided by helmet use. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries were worsened by not wearing one. This is where having a seasoned attorney becomes critical.

We’ll work to minimize or eliminate any blame-shifting, especially if your injuries would have occurred regardless of helmet use. We collaborate with medical experts to prove the true cause and severity of your injuries and make sure your rights are protected.

If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance coverage, you may still have options under your own motorcycle or auto insurance policy. In Pennsylvania, Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage are optional but highly recommended. These coverages protect you when the other driver can’t pay. 

If you carry UM/UIM coverage, Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino will help you file a claim through your own policy. Unlike some firms, we also ensure your insurance company doesn’t undervalue your losses or deny your claim unfairly. Yes, your own insurer can act against your best interests. That’s why we treat them no differently than a third-party insurer when protecting your rights. 

If you don’t carry UM/UIM, we will explore alternative sources of recovery- whether through third-party claims, product liability (if bike defects played a role), or other legal avenues.

Motorcycle accident claims are legally complex and emotionally overwhelming- and insurance companies use that to their advantage. They have teams of adjusters and lawyers whose job is to pay you as little as possible. Without experienced legal representation, you risk settling for far less than you deserve- or worse, having your claim denied altogether. 

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we level the playing field. With 100+ years of collective motorcycle accident litigation experience, we know how to build airtight cases, calculate maximum damages, and dismantle insurance company tactics. 

We take on every part of your case- evidence collection, witness interviews, expert consultations, negotiations, and trial preparation- so you can focus on recovery. And you pay nothing unless we win. With us by your side, you’re not just hiring a lawyer- you’re gaining a legal team with a proven record of winning for Central PA motorcyclists.

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino Injury Law Firm, P.C., we work on a contingency fee basis. That means you pay us nothing upfront, and we only get paid if we recover money for you, either through a settlement or a court verdict. 

This model ensures that every injured motorcyclist, regardless of financial situation, has access to top-tier legal representation. There are no consultation fees, no retainers, and no hourly billing. We cover all case-related expenses during the legal process and only recoup those costs if we win. 

We believe justice should be accessible, not just for those who can afford it. With over two decades of experience and a track record of millions won for Lancaster accident victims, you can rest easy knowing you’re in capable, committed hands.

Every motorcycle accident case is unique, and timelines can vary based on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the clarity of liability, and whether the case settles or goes to trial. 

Generally, straightforward cases may settle within a few months, while more complex claims involving serious injuries, disputed liability, or uncooperative insurance companies may take a year or longer. If litigation is necessary, it can add time, but it’s often worth it to achieve a full and fair outcome. 

At Georgelis, Larsen & Sabatino, we keep you informed every step of the way and push for timely resolutions without compromising your compensation. Our experience in negotiating and trying cases means we know when to settle and when to fight. And while we move aggressively, we also ensure your medical treatment and long-term needs are fully understood before closing your case.