The Risks Riders Face in the Lehigh Valley
Riding a motorcycle through the Lehigh Valley can feel like freedom on two wheels. Whether you’re carving through the winding backroads near Freemansburg or cruising down Linden Street in Bethlehem on a sunny afternoon, there’s nothing quite like it. But it only takes one distracted driver, one pothole on Tilghman Street, or one missed turn signal to change everything. Motorcycle accidents aren’t like car accidents—they’re often more severe, more complex legally, and more emotionally difficult. And if you’ve been hit, you’re probably dealing with a lot more than just a few bruises. As someone who’s worked with riders and their families throughout Bethlehem, Allentown, Fountain Hill, and the surrounding areas, I want to share a few legal tips that can help you protect yourself, your rights, and your recovery after an accident.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Most motorcycle accidents aren’t caused by the rider. In fact, in many of the cases I’ve seen at Michael A. Snover ESQ Attorney at Law, the root cause is another driver failing to see the motorcyclist or misjudging their speed. Other common issues include sudden lane changes, vehicles turning left at intersections, or road hazards like loose gravel or debris that no one warned about. The unfortunate reality is that motorcycles are more vulnerable in every sense—not just physically, but legally too. Bias against riders is real. Insurance companies often try to paint motorcyclists as reckless, even when the evidence clearly shows otherwise. That’s why documenting everything becomes crucial right from the start.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash
If you’re physically able after a crash, get to a safe spot and call 911 immediately. Take photos of the scene, your bike, the other vehicle, and any visible injuries. Get witness names and badge numbers of responding officers. Most importantly, don’t downplay your injuries. A lot of riders, tough as they are, try to “walk it off” and avoid medical treatment. But adrenaline hides pain, and some injuries—especially head or spinal trauma—can get worse over time. Getting medical documentation early on can make or break your case later. When you’re ready, reach out to a firm that understands how to fight for motorcycle accident victims—someone local, who knows the roads, the courts, and the tactics insurers use to dodge responsibility.
Pennsylvania Motorcycle Laws and Your Rights
Pennsylvania has its own set of rules when it comes to motorcycle accidents. For starters, we’re a “choice no-fault” state, which means the type of insurance coverage you chose (limited tort or full tort) can impact how much you can recover. But here’s the kicker—if you’re injured on a motorcycle, you may not be covered by your no-fault benefits the same way you would be in a car. That often means you’ll need to pursue compensation directly from the at-fault party. And if you’re not wearing a helmet? That can affect how damages are assessed, especially if you’re over 21 and legally allowed to ride without one. It’s not about blaming the rider—it’s about understanding how the law works and how to navigate it smartly.
Building a Strong Legal Case
To maximize your settlement, everything starts with evidence. Keep track of all your medical visits, diagnoses, and bills. If your gear was damaged—your helmet, gloves, boots—save them. They can help show the force of impact and the seriousness of the crash. Write down how your injuries have changed your daily life. Can’t ride? Can’t work? Missing out on time with your kids? That all matters. At Michael A. Snover ESQ Attorney at Law, we walk our clients through every step, from collecting documentation to negotiating with insurance companies to preparing for trial if needed. And we’re not just legal counsel—we’re also your advocate in a system that often doesn’t give motorcyclists the benefit of the doubt.
Support That Stays Local
We’ve helped riders from Allentown to Freemansburg, from Rittersville to the heart of downtown Bethlehem. Our office understands what it means to get hit on a road you’ve driven a hundred times. We know the local police departments, the hospitals, the adjusters—and we know how to make sure your story is told clearly, truthfully, and with the urgency it deserves. This isn’t about just filing paperwork. It’s about getting your life back and making sure the people who hurt you are held accountable.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If you or someone you love has been in a motorcycle accident, you don’t have to go it alone. Visit www.snoverlaw.com to learn more or schedule a consultation. We proudly serve motorcycle accident victims in Bethlehem, Allentown, Freemansburg, Fountain Hill, Rittersville, and the greater Lehigh Valley and Eastern Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania communities. At Michael A. Snover ESQ Attorney at Law, we’re here to help you ride again—with dignity, support, and the compensation you deserve.
