Oklahoma City Attorney Representing Motorcyclists Hit By Drunk Drivers

Are You in Need of a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

When an intoxicated driver chooses to get behind the wheel, innocent motorcyclists are frequently the ones who suffer the most severe consequences. Alcohol-related motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries, permanent disabilities, or fatalities.

At Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC, we represent injured motorcycle riders and families throughout Oklahoma City and across the state. Since 2002, our firm has fought for injury victims facing life-changing medical bills, lost income, physical pain, and emotional trauma after serious crashes.

If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle accident involving an intoxicated driver, our legal team is prepared to investigate the crash, preserve evidence, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

You should strongly consider speaking with a motorcycle accident lawyer if:

• You suffered serious injuries requiring hospitalization or surgery
• The accident involved a drunk or impaired driver
• You are unable to return to work
• The insurance company is delaying or denying your claim
• Liability is being disputed
• A loved one was killed in the crash
• You are facing significant medical expenses
• Long-term rehabilitation or permanent disability is involved

Why Choose Us Over Other Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in OKC?

Choosing the right law firm matters after a serious motorcycle crash. At Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC, we understand how devastating drunk driving accidents can be for riders and their families. Our OKC motorcycle accident attorneys have extensive experience handling catastrophic injury claims and aggressively pursuing negligent drivers and insurance companies.

Our firm takes a client-focused approach to every case. We know motorcycle accident victims are often dealing with overwhelming physical pain, emotional stress, and financial uncertainty. Our goal is to guide clients through the legal process while aggressively pursuing maximum compensation.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Rated “Superb” by Avvo for outstanding client and peer reviews
• “AV” Rated by Martindale-Hubbell, their highest rating for legal ability and ethics
• Ray Maples is Listed among the Top 100 Trial Attorneys in Oklahoma by The National Trial Lawyers
• Ray Maples is a Member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an exclusive organization for top-earning lawyers
• Extensive experience handling catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases throughout Oklahoma
• Free consultations for injury victims and families seeking legal guidance

Don’t Let Insurance Companies Blame the Rider

Our attorneys aggressively represent injured motorcyclists after drunk driving crashes. Call (405) 705-5050 to learn more today.

Drunk Drivers Are a Serious Threat to Motorcycle Riders

Drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of deadly traffic accidents in Oklahoma and throughout the United States. Motorcyclists face an especially high risk because they lack the physical protection available to occupants of passenger vehicles.

Alcohol affects a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely in several ways. Intoxicated drivers often experience:

• Slower reaction times
• Poor judgment
• Reduced coordination
• Blurred vision
• Difficulty maintaining lanes
• Increased risk-taking behavior
• Impaired depth perception
• Reduced awareness of surrounding traffic

Types of Motorcycle Accidents Caused by DUI Drivers

Impaired drivers are more likely to fail to notice a motorcycle, misjudge a rider’s speed, drift into another lane, or cause a high-speed collision. Some of the most common drunk driving motorcycle accidents include:

• Left-Turn Collisions. Many motorcycle accidents occur when a drunk driver turns left in front of an approaching motorcycle. Because motorcycles are smaller and harder to see than passenger vehicles, impaired drivers may misjudge distance or fail to notice riders altogether.
• Rear-End Accidents. A drunk driver may fail to stop in time at intersections or in heavy traffic, striking a motorcycle from behind. Even relatively low-speed rear-end collisions can throw riders from their bikes and cause devastating injuries.
• Lane Departure Crashes. Impaired drivers frequently drift across lanes or cross center lines. A motorcycle rider has little protection against a head-on collision caused by a drunk driver entering the wrong lane.
• High-Speed Crashes. Alcohol often contributes to speeding and reckless driving. High-speed motorcycle accidents frequently result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities due to the tremendous force involved.
• Failure to Yield Accidents. Drunk drivers may ignore traffic signals, stop signs, or right-of-way rules, placing motorcycle riders directly in harm’s way.

Proving Negligence When a Drunk Driver Hits a Motorcyclist

Although drunk driving may seem like clear negligence, proving liability in a motorcycle accident case still requires strong evidence. Insurance companies frequently search for ways to reduce responsibility or shift blame onto the injured rider.

To recover compensation, your Oklahoma City personal injury lawyer generally must establish that the driver owed a duty of care, breached that duty through negligent conduct, caused the accident as a result of that breach, and that the victim suffered damages because of the crash.

Driving while intoxicated is a major breach of a driver’s legal duty to operate a vehicle safely. However, building a successful claim often involves gathering extensive evidence to prove fault and demonstrate the full extent of damages.

Your Attorney Will Collect Evidence to Build a Strong Claim

Insurance companies sometimes rely on unfair stereotypes about motorcyclists to argue that riders were reckless or partially responsible for the accident. Our attorneys work aggressively to counter these tactics and present clear evidence of driver negligence.

Police Reports

Police officers responding to the scene may document signs of intoxication, failed field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results, or arrests for DUI.

Chemical Test Results

Blood alcohol concentration test results can provide strong evidence that the driver was impaired at the time of the crash.

Witness Statements

Eyewitnesses may describe dangerous driving behaviors such as speeding, swerving, running red lights, or reckless lane changes.

Traffic Camera and Surveillance Footage

Video evidence can help establish exactly how the collision occurred.

Accident Reconstruction

In complex cases, accident reconstruction experts may analyze skid marks, vehicle damage, impact angles, and crash data to determine liability.

Medical Records

Medical documentation is essential for proving the severity of injuries and the long-term impact on the victim’s life.

What’s the Legal Process for a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Many injury victims are unfamiliar with the legal process after a serious motorcycle accident. While every case is different, most claims follow several general stages.

1. Initial Consultation. The process typically begins with a free consultation. During this meeting, an attorney reviews the facts of the accident, discusses injuries and damages, and evaluates potential legal options.
2. Investigation. Once representation begins, the legal team gathers evidence related to the crash. This may include police reports, medical records, witness statements, photographs, video footage, and expert analysis.
3. Medical Treatment and Documentation. Injury victims should continue receiving appropriate medical care throughout the claims process. Consistent treatment helps protect both health and legal claims.
4. Insurance Negotiations. After investigating the accident and calculating damages, your attorney may submit a demand package to the insurance company. Negotiations often follow.
5. Filing a Lawsuit. If the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, your attorney may file a lawsuit and proceed with litigation.
6. Discovery Phase. Both sides exchange evidence and conduct depositions during discovery. Experts may also provide testimony regarding injuries, accident reconstruction, and future damages.
7. Settlement Negotiations or Trial. Many motorcycle accident cases settle before trial. However, if a fair agreement cannot be reached, your attorney can present the case before a judge or jury.

Did DUI cause Your Motorcycle Crash?

Our Oklahoma City attorneys are ready to protect your rights and pursue maximum compensation. Call (405) 705-5050 to schedule your free consultation today.

You Don’t Need a DUI Conviction to File a Claim

A civil injury claim is separate from a criminal DUI case. Prosecutors handle criminal charges and focus on punishing the driver for violating the law. A personal injury claim focuses on compensating the victim for losses caused by the accident.

Even if DUI charges are never filed, the criminal charges are reduced, the driver is acquitted, or breath test results are unavailable, you may still have a valid personal injury claim.

Evidence of impairment can still support a civil claim even without a DUI conviction. Witness testimony, officer observations, toxicology reports, open alcohol containers, bar receipts, and video footage may all help establish negligence.

Compensation Available for Motorcycle Riders Injured by DUI Drivers

The injuries caused by drunk driving motorcycle accidents are often severe because riders are exposed to direct impact with vehicles, pavement, guardrails, and other hazards.

Compensation in a motorcycle accident claim or lawsuit may include:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical treatment
• Lost wages
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability
• Rehabilitation costs
• Property damage

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Oklahoma

When a drunk driver kills a loved one, certain surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim under Oklahoma law. These claims can seek compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills, lost financial support, loss of companionship, and the emotional impact of the loss.

What Clients Are Saying About Us

He made everything go as smoothly as possible. - Ame Hernandez

I highly recommend using this firm. Mr. Maples was very knowledgeable and great at what he does. He really helped me with a business dispute and helped me with my peace of mind. He made everything go as smoothly as possible.

I could not recommend them more. - Stephanie Roberts

Ray and his team helped my family during a very difficult time. We are so grateful for their knowledge and professionalism. Someone was always available to talk to me and answer any questions I had and I was always kept in the loop on next steps. I could not recommend them more.

Speak With an Experienced OKC Lawyer Who Handles Motorcycle Accidents Caused by DUI Drivers

If you or someone you love was injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a drunk driver, you do not have to face it alone. The attorneys at Maples Harrison Zeaman PLLC are committed to helping injury victims pursue accountability and financial recovery.

Our legal team understands the devastating consequences motorcycle crashes can cause, especially when alcohol is involved. We are prepared to investigate your case, protect your rights, and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve.

We offer free consultations and we can discuss your legal options during a confidential case evaluation.

Call (405) 705-5050 to find out how we can help.

FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Drunk Drivers

What should I do after a motorcycle accident caused by a drunk driver?

You should seek immediate medical attention, call law enforcement, document the accident scene if possible, and avoid speaking extensively with insurance adjusters before consulting an attorney. Medical records and evidence collected early can be critical to your claim.

Can I file a claim if the drunk driver was not convicted of DUI?

Yes. A criminal DUI conviction is not required to pursue a personal injury claim. Civil claims operate under a different legal standard, and you may still recover compensation even if no criminal conviction occurs.

What compensation can I recover after a drunk driving motorcycle accident?

You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future treatment costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, rehabilitation expenses, property damage, and other losses related to the accident.

Are motorcycle accident injuries usually more severe than car accident injuries?

In many cases, yes. Motorcycle riders have far less protection than occupants of passenger vehicles, which often results in catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and severe road rash.

What if the insurance company tries to blame me for the accident?

Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame onto motorcyclists to reduce payouts. An experienced attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and challenge unfair allegations against you.

Can family members file a claim after a fatal motorcycle accident?

Yes. Certain surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim after a fatal motorcycle accident caused by a drunk driver. These claims may seek compensation for financial losses, funeral expenses, and emotional suffering.

What evidence can help prove the driver was intoxicated?

Important evidence may include police reports, breathalyzer or blood test results, officer observations, witness statements, surveillance footage, bar receipts, and accident reconstruction evidence.

Meet Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Ray Maples

Ray Maples is a nationally recognized trial attorney. Throughout his career, Ray has built a solid reputation for aggressive advocacy, strategic litigation, and unwavering commitment to clients harmed by negligence and corporate misconduct.

Raised in South Georgia by his hardworking mother and grandmother, Ray learned early the values of perseverance, integrity, and standing up for others. Their influence shaped both his character and his approach to practicing law. Those lessons continue to guide his work today as he advocates for injury victims and families across Oklahoma and beyond.

Ray began his legal career at a prominent Atlanta law firm, where he represented large corporations and insurance companies in personal injury litigation. Over time, Ray realized his true passion was not defending corporations. Since then, Ray has dedicated his practice to catastrophic injury and wrongful death litigation, representing clients in cases involving trucking accidents, nursing home neglect and abuse, serious car accidents, defective products, medical malpractice, and other complex injury matters.

Rilee Harrison

Rilee Harrison is a trial attorney dedicated to representing individuals and families who have suffered serious injuries due to negligence and wrongful conduct. Known for his strategic mindset, aggressive litigation approach, and commitment to client advocacy, Rilee has built his practice around one guiding principle: every case should be prepared as if it will go to trial.

Rilee believes strong outcomes are built through preparation, attention to detail, and a willingness to pursue accountability when clients have been harmed aggressively. From the earliest stages of a case, he focuses on developing evidence, working closely with medical providers and experts, and positioning claims for maximum value through litigation when necessary. Insurance companies recognize when an attorney is fully prepared to take a case before a jury, and Rilee uses that leverage to fight for meaningful results for his clients.

His practice focuses on serious personal injury and wrongful death litigation, including catastrophic injuries, trucking accidents, severe motor vehicle collisions, and other complex injury claims. Rilee approaches every case with the understanding that clients are often facing overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial challenges. He works closely with clients throughout the legal process, emphasizing communication, accessibility, and personal attention.

Christian M. Zeaman

Christian M. Zeaman is known for his thoughtful approach, courtroom experience, and commitment to personal representation. Christian has built his career around helping clients navigate some of the most difficult moments of their lives with trusted legal guidance and strong advocacy. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Christian spent parts of his early childhood in New York City and Summit, New Jersey, before attending high school in Fairfax, Virginia. He later made Oklahoma his home while attending the University of Oklahoma, where he earned his undergraduate degree in psychology before continuing to the University of Oklahoma College of Law.

Over the years, Christian expanded his practice to include personal injury and civil litigation matters involving car accidents, dram shop claims, slip-and-fall injuries, invasion of privacy cases, and other claims involving wrongful conduct. His passion for representing injured clients is rooted in a belief that the civil justice system serves an important purpose beyond financial compensation alone. Christian believes lawsuits can also promote accountability, deter dangerous conduct, and contribute to safer communities.

Clients appreciate Christian’s calm demeanor, attention to detail, and willingness to personally invest in every case he handles. He approaches each matter with the understanding that legal problems are deeply personal and often life-changing for the individuals involved.

Joseph Albert

Joseph Albert is an Oklahoma attorney dedicated to representing individuals and families who have been seriously harmed by negligence, corporate misconduct, and wrongful conduct. Raised in Elk City, Oklahoma, Joseph learned the importance of hard work, accountability, and standing up for others from an early age. Those small-town values continue to shape the way he approaches every client, every case, and every courtroom challenge.

Joseph began his legal career representing insurance companies and corporate defendants in insurance defense and products liability matters. That experience gave him valuable insight into how the other side evaluates, defends, and resolves claims. Over time, Joseph deliberately chose to use that knowledge to help injured people and families level the playing field against powerful insurers, corporations, and well-funded opponents.

Today, Joseph represents victims of catastrophic injury, wrongful death, nursing home neglect and abuse, trucking accidents, serious car collisions, and defective products. He brings disciplined preparation, strategic thinking, and clear communication to every case he handles. Clients appreciate his attention to detail, practical guidance, and steady approach during what is often one of the most difficult periods of their lives.