Omaha Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Omaha Motorcycle Accidents Can Raise Complex Questions—Legal Help May Provide Direction.
OVER 65
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
NOT AFRAID TO
FIGHT FOR YOUR RIGHTS.
LOVE WHAT WE DO
RESPECTED BY OUR PEERS.
WE TAKE YOUR INJURY PERSONALLY.
Last updated on June 8, 2026
The Role of an Omaha Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
While the number of motorcycle registrations has gone down over the years in Nebraska, the number of crashes and fatalities continues to rise. According to Nebraska’s Department of Transportation and its Traffic Crash Facts Annual Report, there were 540 motorcycle collisions in 2017. As a result, 488 people suffered from injuries, and 27 lives were lost. Most of these wrecks could have been prevented with awareness and responsible driving, which is why speaking with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney after a crash can make all the difference.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash, you should know you have legal rights and options that can help you with recovery. In Nebraska, all drivers are obligated to pay attention and protect other people they encounter on the road. Motorcycle riders are owed the same level of protection and consideration as other motor vehicle drivers. However, not all drivers pay attention to bikers.
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by negligent drivers who don’t look carefully enough in all directions before pulling out into an intersection or switching lanes. As a result, motorcyclists can demand compensation from any driver if the driver’s negligent behavior caused them to crash and suffer serious motorcycle accident injuries.
However, an injured motorcycle rider has to prove that the at-fault driver acted negligently to secure damages. That’s where an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Omaha can help.
Bike accident victims are likely to have a plethora of questions surrounding their accident, claim, and recovery. At Welsh & Welsh PC LLO, our motorcycle accident attorneys are here to provide answers and help our clients seek justice for what should have never happened in the first place. Our Omaha motorcycle accident lawyers have extensive experience representing clients who have been wronged, and we’re prepared to provide you with the legal representation you deserve.
What Are the Primary Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Nebraska?
While there are a number of reasons motorcycle wrecks occur in Omaha, the following causes are the most common.
Distracted Driving
Distractions are commonly caused by cell phones and other wireless devices. Eating, drinking, interacting with children, pets, or other passengers, reaching for objects, and personal grooming are also contributing distraction factors. When a driver attempts multiple tasks at a time while behind the wheel they’re likely to miss what other vehicles are doing around them, as well as what’s going on with their surroundings.
Drunk Driving
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 3.4 percent of Nebraska’s citizens report driving after drinking too much. Alcohol impairs a driver’s abilities to make good decisions and act quickly behind the wheel, putting everyone else on the road at risk.
Inexperience
Most often related to age, inexperience is a factor of some Nebraska motorcycle accidents. Young riders may not have the skills necessary to react appropriately to certain situations on the road. It’s important for all motorcycle operators to go through the necessary training course, so they can operate their vehicle properly.
Traffic Violations
Violations like illegal left turns and neglecting to stop at a sign or traffic light contribute to a number of bike wrecks each year. Left-turn accidents are particularly common. When a driver misjudges a biker’s distance or does not see the vehicle when making a left turn, the oncoming motorcycle may be unable to stop and could strike the turning car.
Road Conditions
When roads are improperly cared for motorcyclists are at the most risk because they only have two wheels. When a four-wheeled vehicle hits a pothole, it has three other wheels to assist with the correction. It’s much harder for a motorcycle to correct after hitting a pothole or other road debris. Wet or icy roads are also dangerous for motorcycles.
Motorcycle Defects
In some cases, wrecks can be caused by faulty motorcycle parts. If the manufacturers didn’t install something correctly or installed the wrong part, the bike could fail, and the operator could get seriously injured.
Failure to Yield
Some aggressive drivers may not feel that they have to regard motorcyclists as equals on the road. If they refuse to yield when a biker has the right-of-way, they can cause a collision.
Inability to Share the Road
New drivers or drivers who don’t have a lot of experience with driving near motorcyclists may have difficulties with judging how far a biker is from them and how fast they’re going. Drivers may incorrectly think they have the space to make a lane change or have the time to make a turn.
Blind Spots
Motorcyclists are considerably smaller than the cars on the road around them. While a driver may look for cars in their blind spots, they may miss a motorcyclist if they glance too quickly or don’t check their rearview mirror as well.
No matter the reason for your injuries, our skilled lawyers will look into your case and find out what happened and how the other person was negligent.
Nebraska Helmet Law Requirements
Nebraska does not require all motorcyclists to wear helmets, but the state imposes specific restrictions based on rider age and experience level. Operators and passengers under 21 years old must wear DOT-approved helmets at all times while riding. Additionally, riders operating under learner’s permits must wear helmets regardless of their age.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that states with universal helmet laws experience fewer motorcyclist fatalities compared to states with partial helmet requirements. Nebraska’s selective approach means many adult riders legally operate without head protection, potentially increasing injury severity in accidents.
DOT certification ensures helmets meet federal safety standards for impact resistance and penetration protection. Riders who voluntarily wear helmets often receive more favorable treatment from insurance companies and juries, as helmet use demonstrates responsible safety practices that can strengthen personal injury claims.
Law enforcement officers can issue citations for helmet violations, with fines typically ranging from $25 to $100 depending on local jurisdiction policies.
What Nebraska’s Motorcycle Crash Trends Show
Nebraska’s motorcycle crash trends have worsened in recent years. NDOT data shows motorcycle fatalities have increased in recent years, with 32 motorcycle fatalities recorded in 2024. In 2024, Nebraska changed its helmet law to allow riders age 21 and older to ride without a helmet after completing an approved motorcycle safety course.
Douglas County, which includes Omaha, consistently records among the highest number of motorcycle crashes in Nebraska due to traffic volume and the density of intersections. Riders in the Omaha metro area face particular risks at high-traffic intersections and on corridors like Dodge Street and West Dodge Road, where left-turn and failure-to-yield crashes can occur.
Under Nebraska Revised Statute § 25-207, injured motorcyclists have four years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. Acting quickly after a crash also helps preserve critical evidence including dashcam footage, witness accounts, and police reports that can disappear over time.
What Are Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Omaha, Nebraska?
Motorcycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, leaving victims with long-term physical and financial hardships. Some common injuries incurred in motorcycle accidents include:
- Head and brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) are one of the most severe consequences of motorcycle accidents. A rider’s head is at risk of hitting the pavement, another vehicle, or other objects during a crash, which can result in concussions, skull fractures, and other serious brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries: The force of impact in a motorcycle accident can cause damage to the spinal cord, resulting in paralysis or permanent nerve damage.
- Broken bones: Broken bones are common in motorcycle accidents due to the lack of protection for riders. Collarbone, arm, leg, and rib fractures are some of the most frequently sustained bone fractures in these crashes. In some cases, the bones may require surgical intervention to heal properly.
- Road rash: When a rider skids across the pavement during an accident, they can suffer from road rash. This type of injury occurs when the skin is scraped off due to friction with the road surface. Road rash can be significant and require extensive treatment, including skin grafts.
- Internal injuries: Due to the impact and force of being thrown from a motorcycle or colliding with another vehicle, riders may sustain internal injuries such as organ damage or internal bleeding.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you have every right to file a personal injury claim to seek compensation for your damages. Our experienced Omaha motorcycle accident lawyers can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
What Consequences Are Associated with Motorcycle Accidents?
As we’ve discussed, motorcycle collisions can be devastating. Physical injuries, however, are not the only concern. Victims often have to figure out how to handle financial burdens and may be coping with emotional trauma.
Physical Consequences
In the event of an accident, motorcycle riders are at risk for sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI), broken bones, spinal cord injuries, burn injuries, and nerve damage. The recovery process depends on the severity of the injury; however, many of the injuries can be catastrophic. This means the injuries can potentially have life-long consequences. A permanent injury could be a spinal injury that causes paralysis or a brain injury that inhibits a person’s ability to speak.
Motorcyclists have considerably less protection than someone in a car or truck. While those vehicles have a body, seat belts, and air bags, the most that bikers usually have is a helmet, protective long-sleeved clothing, thick gloves, and sturdy shoes.
When they are involved in an accident, the motorcyclist may be knocked off their vehicle or thrown from it. The contact with the ground can cause friction, which results in road rash – a form of burn injury. These injuries can be minor or severe.
A slight brush burn may only affect the top layer of skin. This doesn’t require medical treatment and should heal on its own. But when the friction tears outer layers and reaches deeper, the motorcyclist’s life can be in danger. Severe burn injuries affect nerves, muscle, and bone. They require intense medical treatment. Some injuries may need skin grafts, but some injuries are so severe that these won’t work. After a serious accident, bikers could lose feeling and function at the site of the burn injury.
Financial Consequences
Even for minor injuries, medical and hospital bills can be substantial. There may not be enough money to cover the damages, even with the proper health and auto insurance. Some financial costs associated with serious injuries include lengthy hospital stays, medication, therapy, long-term care, and counseling. If you’re struggling financially after an accident, contact our personal injury attorneys.
Psychological Consequences
While physical injuries can heal with the right medical procedures and treatments, motorcycle crash victims may develop psychological issues like post-traumatic stress disorder. Some may also develop anxiety or depression, and could also avoid anything to do with getting back on the road. Seeking counseling with a licensed therapist can help; however, this kind of treatment can be expensive and there isn’t a time limit to how long it can take for someone to mentally recover from the trauma of a wreck.
The aftermath of an accident is a lot for anyone to deal with. When you’re worried about recovering, the financial stress of affording care and covering the damages can be overwhelming. Whether it’s for a brief period while you heal or a change in lifestyle, you need to have time to adjust to your new normal. That’s why Welsh & Welsh will help you get through this. We’ll fight for your claim so you can get space to breathe and recover.
What Makes Motorcycle Claims So Complex?
When a motorcyclist is involved in an accident that was someone else’s fault, they make not think they need representation because it’s clear that they didn’t do anything wrong. This doesn’t mean, however, that the insurance company will give the biker everything they’re owed.
Insurance companies save money when they give you less, so they could try to use anything against you so you don’t get full compensation for your injuries. While the person who caused the accident may seem cordial and willing to work with you at the scene of the accident, they may change their story when it’s time to report it to their insurance company.
There’s also a stigma against motorcyclists that paints them as people who don’t obey speed limits and are inherently more reckless. While this is a stereotype and not the case, it can still influence people to think that the motorcyclist had some fault in their crash.
That’s why it’s imperative that you get legal professionals who are well-versed in cases like this. We know how to show that you didn’t cause the crash and that the negligent actions of the other party are the reason why you’ve suffered losses.
To protect yourself from not giving the insurance company any reason to invalidate your claim or reduce your settlement, you should know what to do in the event of an accident. Some steps to take include:
-
Calling 911 and seeking medical attention
-
Exchanging insurance information with the other party involved
-
Taking pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage
-
Collecting contact information from witnesses
-
Refraining from admitting fault or apologizing for the accident
-
Not giving a recorded statement to the other party’s insurance company without consulting an attorney first
Who Can Be at Fault in a Motorcycle Accident?
Multiple parties can bear responsibility for motorcycle accidents, extending liability beyond just the other driver involved in the collision. Motor vehicle operators represent the most common at-fault parties, particularly when they fail to check blind spots, make illegal turns, or engage in distracted driving behaviors that endanger motorcyclists.
Government entities may face liability when poor road maintenance contributes to accidents. Potholes, inadequate signage, or defective traffic control devices can create hazardous conditions, specifically dangerous for two-wheeled vehicles.
Motorcycle manufacturers and parts suppliers can be held responsible when defective components cause accidents. Brake failures, tire defects, or steering malfunctions may trigger product liability claims against multiple defendants in the manufacturing chain.
Commercial establishments serving alcohol may face dram shop liability when intoxicated patrons cause motorcycle accidents after over-consumption. Construction companies working near roadways can also be liable if their activities create unmarked hazards or debris that endanger motorcyclists.
Nebraska’s At-Fault/Tort State System
Nebraska operates under a traditional tort-based insurance system, meaning the negligent driver responsible for causing an accident bears financial responsibility for resulting damages. This system differs significantly from no-fault states, where each party’s insurance covers their own losses regardless of fault determination.
Under Nebraska’s comparative negligence law, accident victims can recover damages even when partially responsible for their injuries. However, compensation is reduced proportionally based on the victim’s percentage of fault. If a motorcyclist is found 30% responsible for an accident, their recoverable damages decrease by that same percentage.
The tort system allows injured motorcyclists to pursue compensation directly from at-fault drivers’ insurance companies or through personal injury lawsuits. This approach typically provides higher compensation potential than no-fault systems but requires proving the other party’s negligence through evidence and legal argument.
What Do I Do After a Motorcycle Wreck in Omaha, NE?
Any vehicle accident can be an overwhelming experience. You may be wondering what the proper protocol is and whether or not you have any legal obligations to take care of. If you’re in a condition to do so after a motorcycle wreck, take into consideration the following steps:
- Call 911. You’ll want to call emergency services after an accident to seek medical treatment for yourself and anyone else involved in the accident. It’s likely you may also need to make a statement to the police.
- Don’t Discuss the Accident. Until you’ve hired an attorney, avoid discussing the accident. Anything you say could be used against you later. Never apologize for what happened.
- Exchange Information. You have a legal obligation to swap contact information with the other driver, which you will later share with your respective insurance companies.
- Document What Happened. Your motorcycle accident claim will benefit from as much information as you can provide. After the accident, record what you remember happening. Make note of the road conditions. It’s also a good idea to snap some photos of the vehicles, your injuries, and the conditions of the road and weather.
- Keep Good Records. It’s likely you won’t be able to collect a settlement until your doctor determines you’ve recovered. Depending on how long that takes, a significant amount of time could pass. Make sure you keep accurate and precise records of your medical bills, vehicle repairs, and recovery process.
- Contact an Attorney. With the right law firm, you’re likely to walk away from your motorcycle accident with the compensation you’ll need to get your life back in order.
With trusted attorneys at your side, you’ll be able to move forward with your claim and get the justice you deserve.
Understanding Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Omaha
If you’re entangled in a motorcycle accident in Omaha, the financial implications can be as distressing as the physical injuries. Fortunately, the law provides avenues for victims to seek various forms of compensation to alleviate this burden.
Primarily, you may pursue damages for medical expenses, which cover both immediate treatment and ongoing care costs. Lost wages are another significant component, compensating for the income lost during your recovery period.
Moreover, if your ability to earn a living is permanently impaired, you may be entitled to damages for lost earning capacity. Pain and suffering compensation addresses the non-economic impact of your injuries, acknowledging the physical pain and emotional distress you’ve endured.
In cases of severe negligence, punitive damages might also be awarded, intended not just to compensate the victim but to penalize the wrongdoer and deter similar reckless behavior.
Lastly, if the unthinkable happens and a motorcycle accident leads to a fatality, the victim’s family may seek wrongful death damages. These are aimed at covering everything from funeral expenses to the loss of financial support and consortium.
It’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable Omaha motorcycle accident lawyer who can guide you through the complexities of the claims process and ensure you receive the comprehensive compensation you’re entitled to.
How Can Omaha Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Help?
Skilled motorcycle accident lawyers can stand up to the insurance company and make sure you aren’t taken advantage of. They can be crucial in negotiating a fair settlement.
Moreover, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Omaha can advise you every step of the way and handle the legal technicalities of your motorcycle accident case.
They can level the playing field between you and the other party, investigate the accident, and help with calculating your damages.
Working with an Omaha motorcycle accident lawyer also means that you don’t have to worry about the court proceedings and can focus on your recovery.
How Can Welsh & Welsh Help Me With My Claim?
Our Omaha motorcycle accident attorneys are here for you when you need us most. We can help you speak with your insurance company and understand confusing policies, so you know what you’re eligible for. If your insurance company is trying to minimize their costs by not giving you what you deserve, we’ll do whatever it takes to ensure you receive full and fair compensation.
You can get peace of mind that professionals are looking out for your best interests. For more information about your rights and options after an accident, contact our office today. We’ll schedule a free consultation to discuss your case and explore the most effective strategy for securing the compensation you need and deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to help you get back on your feet after a motorcycle wreck in Omaha, NE.
Types of Personal Injury Cases Handled by Welsh & Welsh PC, LLO in Omaha, Nebraska
Car Accident: Car accidents can leave victims facing painful injuries, financial strain, and uncertainty. Welsh & Welsh PC, LLO helps Nebraskans pursue full compensation and hold negligent drivers accountable.
Truck Accident: Collisions with commercial trucks often result in severe, life-altering harm. Our firm has extensive experience navigating complex trucking regulations and fighting for victims’ rights.
Medical Malpractice: When medical professionals fail to meet the standard of care, patients suffer the consequences. We advocate for those harmed by preventable medical errors and negligence.
Birth Injury: Birth injuries can permanently affect a child’s health and a family’s future. Welsh & Welsh works to uncover what went wrong and secure justice for injured infants and mothers.
Premise Liability: Property owners must keep their premises safe. If hazardous conditions caused your injury, our attorneys can help pursue accountability and fair compensation.
Nursing Home Abuse: Elderly residents deserve dignity and proper care. We stand up for victims of nursing home abuse and neglect, helping families protect their loved ones.
Mesothelioma: A mesothelioma diagnosis brings difficult decisions. We help victims and families pursue justice from those responsible for asbestos exposure.
Burn Injury: Burn injuries can change every part of life. Our firm works tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and to secure meaningful recovery.
Head Brain Injury : Traumatic brain injuries can disrupt every aspect of life. Welsh & Welsh fights for clients suffering from TBIs to ensure they receive the care and compensation they deserve.
Motorcycle Accident: Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable on the road. Our team represents injured riders and seeks justice when careless drivers cause serious harm.
Pedestrian Accident: If you’ve been hit while walking, the impact can be life-changing. We help you pursue compensation and regain stability.
Dog Bites: If you’ve been bitten by a dog, you may be dealing with pain and unexpected medical bills. We hold negligent owners accountable.
Work Injury: Workplace injuries can impact your ability to earn a living. We help injured workers navigate their legal options and secure the benefits they are entitled to.
Bicycle Accident: If you’ve been injured while cycling, you deserve a fair chance to recover. We protect your rights and push back against negligent drivers.
Workers Compensation: If you’ve filed or need to file a workers’ compensation claim, the process can feel confusing. We guide you from start to finish.
Drug Litigation: Dangerous and defective medications can cause widespread harm. Our firm represents individuals injured by unsafe drugs and seeks accountability from manufacturers.
Slip and Fall: Slip-and-fall accidents often stem from preventable hazards. We help victims pursue claims against negligent property owners to recover medical and financial damages.
Fetal Distress: When signs of fetal distress are missed, the consequences can be lifelong. We help families seek justice for preventable birth injuries.
Product Liability: Consumers should be able to trust the products they use. When defective products cause injuries, we fight to hold manufacturers and distributors responsible.
FAQs: Omaha Motorcycle Accident Claims
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Nebraska?
Nebraska’s statute of limitations gives you four years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, acting quickly preserves crucial evidence.
Do I need an attorney for my motorcycle accident claim?
While not legally required, insurance companies often undervalue claims from unrepresented victims. Studies show represented claimants receive settlements 3.5 times higher than those without legal counsel.
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
Nebraska follows comparative negligence laws. You can still recover damages even if you’re partially responsible, though your compensation reduces by your percentage of fault.
How long does a motorcycle accident claim take?
Simple cases may resolve in months, while complex claims involving severe injuries can take years. The severity of injuries and insurance company cooperation significantly impact timelines.
What insurance coverage is required for motorcycles in Nebraska?
Nebraska mandates minimum liability coverage of $25,000 per person for bodily injury and $50,000 per accident. Uninsured motorist coverage isn’t required but provides valuable protection for motorcyclists.
Testimonials
Don’t take our word for it. Here’s what our clients have to say.
Request a Consultation
Call us at
Send Message
Address
Omaha, NE 68114