$235,000 Settlement Secured in Chicago Motorcycle Accident Case

Attorneys Jason Schneider, Rachel Legorreta, and John Malm of John J. Malm & Associates are pleased to announce a $235,000 settlement on behalf of a motorcycle rider who was seriously injured in a collision with a left-turning motorist in Chicago. The case involved significant injuries, including a fractured hip that required surgery, and underscores both the vulnerability of motorcycle riders and the importance of experienced legal representation.

The Accident: A Left-Turning Motorist Fails to Yield

The crash occurred on a busy Chicago street when a motorist attempted to make a left turn in front of our client’s oncoming motorcycle. Despite having the right-of-way, our client was cut off without warning, causing a violent collision. The impact threw the rider from his motorcycle, resulting in immediate and severe injuries.

Chicago traffic is notoriously dense and chaotic, making split-second driving decisions a matter of life and death, especially for motorcyclists. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022, 5,932 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes in the U.S., the highest number on record. Left-turn collisions, such as this one, are among the most common and dangerous scenarios for motorcyclists.

In Illinois, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reported over 2,600 motorcycle crashes in a single recent year, with hundreds involving serious injuries or fatalities. Left-turn accidents represent a significant share of these incidents.

The Injury: Complex Hip Dislocation and Fracture Requiring Surgery

Our client was transported to a local trauma center by ambulance, where he was diagnosed with a dislocated right hip and a fracture of the femoral head. The injury was further complicated by damage to the labrum, a ring of cartilage in the hip joint. In fact, a portion of the labrum had been sucked into the joint socket during the dislocation, making surgical repair more complex and painful.

Surgeons performed an emergency procedure to reduce the dislocation, repair the fracture, and address the labral damage. The surgical team used internal fixation techniques to stabilize the joint and repair the torn tissue. The involvement of the labrum and the intra-articular displacement increased the risk of long-term complications, including chronic pain and post-traumatic arthritis.

Following surgery, our client endured a lengthy recovery process that included several weeks of non-weight-bearing restrictions, followed by extensive physical therapy and pain management. Despite his commitment to recovery, he continues to experience reduced mobility, persistent discomfort, and limitations in his daily activities.

Following the surgery, our client faced a lengthy rehabilitation process, including weeks of non-weight-bearing restrictions, physical therapy, and chronic pain management. Despite successful surgery, residual pain and limited range of motion remain ongoing issues. The injury also disrupted his work and personal life, forcing time off from employment and impacting his ability to participate in hobbies and activities he once enjoyed.

Legal Strategy: Building a Strong Case for Compensation

Upon being retained, our team of dedicated Illinois motorcycle accident attorneys at John J. Malm & Associates took swift action to investigate the accident. We collected:

• Police and crash reports
• Eyewitness statements
• Photographic evidence from the scene
• Surveillance footage from nearby businesses (where available)
• Medical records and expert reports

In cases involving motorcycles, liability can sometimes be unfairly disputed, with insurance carriers attempting to shift blame onto the rider. We pushed back aggressively, establishing that the turning motorist failed to yield and violated Illinois traffic law. Our team also worked closely with medical professionals to document the full scope of our client’s injuries and future care needs.

Our strategy included:

• A comprehensive demand package supported by medical imaging and surgical reports
• Economic loss calculations, including lost wages and diminished future earning capacity
• A detailed narrative of pain, suffering, and loss of normal life

Settlement Result: $235,000 for Lasting Injuries

Our advocacy led to a successful pre-trial resolution, with the at-fault driver’s insurance carrier agreeing to a $235,000 settlement. The compensation allowed our client to cover his medical expenses, recoup lost wages, and secure future treatment needs.

This result reflects the seriousness of his injuries and our commitment to ensuring fair and full compensation for motorcycle crash victims.

Why Motorcycle Cases Require Skilled Legal Representation

Motorcycle accident claims require specific legal knowledge and a proactive approach. Insurance companies often seek to exploit stereotypes about motorcycle riders to minimize payouts. Our team of award-winning litigators knows how to combat these tactics.

“Motorcyclists face unique risks on the road. They lack the physical protections of a car, so even a seemingly minor crash can lead to catastrophic injuries,” said Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer John J. Malm. “We understand those risks, and we know how to fight back when insurers try to avoid responsibility. Our job is to make sure the rider’s story is heard and that they are treated fairly.”

John J. Malm & Associates: Trusted Advocates for Motorcycle Injury Victims

At John J. Malm & Associates, we bring more than 90 years of combined experience and a team of six award-winning attorneys to every case. From Naperville to Chicago and across Illinois, we stand up for injured motorcyclists and their families.

Whether your case involves a left-turn crash, distracted driving, or another form of negligence, our firm is prepared to act quickly and fight for the justice you deserve.

Contact Us Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, do not wait. Contact the experienced team at John J. Malm & Associates today to schedule your free consultation. Call us at 844-MALMLAW or fill out our online contact form to learn more about your legal options.