Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
In California, motorcycles are among the most commonly used forms of transportation. One of the reasons why might be the picturesque roads and year-round sunny weather. Unfortunately, riding a motorcycle can involve greater risks compared to many other forms of transportation.
Riding a motorcycle provides a more immediate sensation of the wide road’s independence than driving a car. It does, however, also present a greater risk of harm. Motorcyclists are more likely to suffer severe injuries in accidents than passengers in other vehicles.
What Are The Most Frequent Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
It is widely recognized that motorcycle accidents can be dangerous. In a collision, motorcycle riders have limited physical protection and are frequently ejected from their vehicles, which increases the risk of serious injury. Based on the miles their vehicles travel, motorcyclists have a significantly higher risk of dying in a traffic accident than passengers in motor vehicles.
Motorcycle accidents have several causes, but drunk driving is among the most common. According to NHTSA data, over 25% of fatal motorcycle crashes involved drugs or alcohol.
Among the other main factors in motorcycle collisions are:
- Speeding
- Inexperienced bikers or drivers
- Risky driving conditions
- Inappropriate turns or unsafe lane changes
- Risky or distracted driving
- Motorcycles that are malfunctioning or broken
- Inadequate visibility
- Falling to avoid hitting something
- Splitting lanes
What Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents Are Most Common?
Motorcycle riders can suffer serious injuries in a collision. Motorcycles’ limited safety features can result in significant injuries, sometimes leaving survivors with substantial medical expenses. According to research, the financial cost of motorcycle accidents in any given year is estimated to be $12,000,000,000.
In addition to whiplash and road rash, other more severe injuries may include:
- Paraplegia or quadriplegia, or paralysis
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Amputations
- Bone fractures and broken bones
- Spinal cord, neck, or back injuries
- Burns
Many motorcycle accident survivors require extended recovery periods. Surgery might be required, and months or even years of rehabilitation may be necessary. One injury prevention strategy shown to reduce the number of fatal motorcycle accidents is helmet use. Even on short rides, cyclists should always wear helmets since California law mandates it.
In Motorcycle Accidents, Who Is at Fault?
Riders must use safe riding techniques and remain aware of roadway conditions in order to operate a motorcycle responsibly. These practices often extend beyond simply understanding basic driving laws and regulations.
If a car driver does not drive safely near a motorcyclist, they may be considered negligent and accountable for injuries resulting from a motorbike accident.
On the other hand, a motorcyclist can also be considered negligent if their actions contributed to the accident.
Our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers may review evidence and circumstances to evaluate negligence in motorcycle accidents.
What Is The Average Motorcycle Accident Settlement?
A Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer may assist individuals in pursuing compensation for injuries, property damage, medical bills, and other monetary damages if they are harmed in a motorbike accident.
Compensation in these cases may include:
- Medical bills incurred as a result of the injuries
- Future medical treatment costs
- Loss of earnings
- Damage to property
- Any non-economic losses incurred by your loved ones, such as loss of companionship or moral support
You may contact 562-620-5912 to request a consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer.
Following A Motorcycle Accident, A Person May Be Entitled To Seek The Following Damages:
- Past and future medical expenditures, lost wages, lost earning potential, essential repair and replacement services, housing and car modifications, and other related losses.
- Physical pain and suffering, loss of consortium, and emotional distress may also be considered general damages.
While this may appear straightforward, determining responsibility can sometimes be complex. Insurance companies often use claim adjusters to evaluate claims and determine appropriate payouts. In some cases, multiple parties may share responsibility for an accident, making a detailed investigation important.
Attorneys may investigate an accident by gathering photos, witness testimony, expert analysis, and other relevant evidence.
In The Event Of An Accident, Victims May Seek Compensation From The Following Entities:
- Careless drivers
- The employer of the at-fault driver
- Manufacturers, in cases involving a product defect
- Property owners
- Public organizations, such as a city or state, in cases involving poorly maintained roads
- Builders and contractors
Even if a motorcycle accident was partly the victim’s fault, they may still be able to recover a portion of their losses. California follows a comparative fault system, which allows injured riders to recover damages reduced by their percentage of fault.
If Possible, You Should Try To Perform The Following After A Motorcycle Accident:
Keep Calm– Your adrenaline and emotions may be racing, but now is the time to remain as calm as possible and assess the situation.
Obtain Safety– Move yourself away from traffic and any potential hazards such as gas leaks, fires, or damaged structures.
Examine Yourself for Injuries– Even injuries that seem minor at first should be evaluated. Look for possible injuries and consider seeking medical attention if needed.
Notify Emergency Services– If anyone has been injured in the collision, call 9-1-1 immediately. Requesting an official police report may help document the circumstances of the accident.
Document the Accident– Exchange insurance and contact information with other parties involved. Take photos of the accident scene and note details such as the time, location, and property damage. Witness contact information may also be helpful.
Don’t Admit Fault– After your collision, you may need to speak with several individuals, including police officers and insurance representatives. Avoid making statements about fault until the circumstances of the accident are fully reviewed.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer– Speaking with a lawyer may help you better understand your legal rights and options after a motorcycle accident.
Our Personal Injury Lawyers
The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker has represented clients in personal injury matters in Southern California for decades. The firm has handled many accident claims and assisted individuals seeking compensation related to injuries.
Past case results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Call Now For Your Initial Consultation
The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker offers consultations to discuss your rights and options after a motorcycle accident. During this consultation, the firm can explain fee arrangements and the claims process.
Call 562-620-5912 to learn more about how the firm may assist you with a motorcycle accident claim.
