Dedicated to Winning Maximum Compensation for Every Case
Motorcycles are one of the most enjoyable ways of getting around town and all over California. There is nothing quite like the rush of wind around you, breath-taking views, and the open road. The streets of Bakersfield are safer than in large cities like Los Angeles and San Diego. In fact the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reports that Bakersfield had 67 motorcycle accidents compared to 605 in Los Angeles in 2022. These statistics include accidents that caused injury and fatalities – underscoring how dangerous motorcycle accidents can be.
When riders are injured in motorcycle accidents, they can sustain life changing, catastrophic injuries. California motorcyclists have a right to seek justice and compensation after an accident, but they are not always treated fairly in the claims process. Insurance companies often dispute liability or injury severity in motorcycle accident cases, attempting to put responsibility on the motorcyclist and minimize payouts. With the help of a motorcycle accident attorney in Bakersfield, you can be sure you are not short-changed by insurers and collect the compensation you need to get back on your feet.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Bakersfield
Most motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers, but there are cases where riders are responsible for the accident. The BD&J team of motorcycle accident lawyers in Bakersfield have handled cases involving:
- Driver error – As the most common cause of motorcycle accidents, this involves violating traffic laws or recklessness on busy roads. Typical mistakes drivers and riders make include:
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failure to yield (causes most left turn motorcycle accidents)
- Following too closely
- Distracted driving
- Speeding (and other aggressive driving tactics)
- Impaired driving
- Lack of visibility – Most vehicle drivers do not check for motorcycles nearly as often as they should while navigating congested Bakersfield roads and freeways. Motorcyclists should always be aware of the blind spots of other vehicles and avoid them. Provide lots of space for vehicles that are changing lanes or driving recklessly.
- Road hazards – Motorcycle riders are more negatively impacted by hazardous conditions (i.e. slippery surfaces, potholes, gravel, and other debris), uneven pavement, or lack of traffic signs and signals than larger vehicles. With only two small wheels on the ground, motorcycles have less traction than other vehicles, so they are more susceptible to accidents caused by road hazards.
Determining Liability in Motorcycle Crashes
The role of a motorcycle accident lawyer in Bakersfield is to conduct a thorough investigation and collect evidence to prove the negligence that caused the accident. They look into other drivers, motorcycle defects, and even road conditions to find out who is ultimately liable. Crucial evidence for proving liability includes police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident scene photos. With these in hand an accident lawyer can easily counter any liability disputes.
California has pure comparative negligence, so accident victims can collect compensation even if they are partially at fault for the accident. In cases with multiple liable parties, the courts assign a percentage of fault to each party, and the compensation won will be adjusted according to the victim’s percentage of fault. For example, if a judge or jury finds the victim to be 30% liable for the accident, they will only receive 70% of the final compensation.
Motorcycle Laws in California
California requires motorcyclists to follow strict licensing, equipment and operation laws. These include helmet use, insurance minimums, and compliance with traffic laws, among others. Specifically, Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmets must be worn by motorcycle riders and passengers in California. In addition, motorcycles must have working safety features including turn signals, mirrors, a horn, a headlight, and a taillight. Motorcyclists must also have a valid license and registration as well as meet minimum insurance coverage requirements. Motorcycle accident lawyers are familiar with these and other applicable laws and may use them to defend your case.
Lane Splitting in California
Did you know lane splitting is legal in California? It is and has been since 2017 when California Vehicle Code (CVC) 21658.1 was adopted. Lane splitting, also called lane filtering, refers to driving a motorcycle between two lanes of stopped or moving vehicles. Although lane splitting is legal in California, motorcyclists must abide by other traffic laws while doing so. Like right turns on red lights at intersections, lane splitting is legal but it’s up to the rider to yield to traffic and do so safely. It’s important to note that lane splitting can be dangerous for riders, and caution and good judgement should be used. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident while lane splitting because you did so without caution, you may be held partially responsible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident in California?
Motorcycle accident victims recover a range of compensation depending on the severity of the accident and injuries. Generally, settlements can reach tens of thousands of dollars to over a million dollars. These payouts compensate accident victims for medical bills, motorcycle repairs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This means victims that suffer severe injuries like a traumatic brain injury (TBI) or amputation should receive more than someone with minor injuries. Motorcycle accident lawyers will carefully assess damages and demand maximum compensation to ensure victims have the funds they need to recover.
How long does a motorcycle accident lawsuit take?
A motorcycle accident lawsuit can take anywhere from several months to more than a year depending on the complexities of the accident and the claim process. An accident with multiple responsible parties or liability disputes can take longer to resolve than the average case. This process could be shortened by accepting an early, low settlement offer, but the Bakersfield motorcycle accident attorneys at BD&J prioritize winning maximum compensation to support victims’ full recovery.
What kills most motorcycle riders?
Other vehicles are the number one cause for fatal motorcycle accidents, but the types of motorcycle accidents that result in fatalities are head-on impacts and left-turn collisions. Many fatal motorcycle accidents involve speeding or impaired driving.
How to Work with the Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Bakersfield
If you or a loved one are hurt in a motorcycle accident, be sure to have trusted legal counsel on your side. Our team of motorcycle accident attorneys in Bakersfield never settle for less than maximum compensation. Follow these steps to get started with BD&J today:
- Gather documentation and evidence. Collect medical bills, therapy bills, property repair records, and photos/videos from the accident scene. These pieces and more are essential for the success of your claim, and anything you provide can help speed up the claim process.
- Contact our motorcycle accident team. Call today to speak with a legal expert or fill out the form below to receive a call from the BD&J team. We will review your case information and give you a call to discuss the details and how much compensation you can expect.
- Stay in touch and involved. Expect requests for information and documentation as well as regular progress updates from your motorcycle accident attorney. Your timely response and engagement with your attorneys will help your case run quickly and smoothly.
Getting Motorcycle Accident Victims Back on Their Feet
Many BD&J attorneys are avid motorcyclists themselves and bring a unique sense of empathy to motorcycle accident victims. They focus on winning your case and getting ample compensation, so you can prioritize your recovery and returning to daily life. In more than 20 years of serving accident victims we have won over $2 billion* to compensate clients. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, count on top-notch legal representation to manage your accident claim. Contact BD&J today to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case in detail.
