Compassionate Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Irvine
Many motorcyclists will argue there’s nothing quite like hopping on your bike and cruising along Irvine roads, enjoying the sunshine and open air. Unfortunately, a motorcycle accident can quickly put an end to a biker’s carefree ride. If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries in a motorcycle accident, don’t let yourself get stuck with mounting costs for an accident that may not be your fault. Keep reading to learn more about motorcycle accidents, why a claim can help with expenses, and why a BD&J motorcycle accident attorney in Irvine can help!
Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
According to the most recent stats from California’s Office of Traffic Safety, the city of Irvine saw 23 victims killed or injured in motorcycle crashes in 2023. Bikers share the road with other motorists every day, but the smaller size of motorcycles combined with the lack of protection on the road can often lead to serious consequences in accidents.
Some of the reasons why motorcycle accidents often happen in Irvine include:
- Distracted driving from another motorist, such as texting, eating, changing the radio, looking elsewhere, etc.
- Speeding from another driver, which can lead to delayed reactions when needing to brake or slow down.
- Left hand turns, where another driver is turning left in an intersection and misses a motorcycle coming from the opposite direction.
- Blind spots, where another driver misses a motorcycle riding next to them as they merge into another lane.
- Impaired driving, where another motorist is operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Involved in a motorcycle accident in Irvine? Call a BD&J motorcycle accident lawyer today.
How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents in Irvine?
According to data from the DMV, Orange County was one of the top counties in California with the most registered motorcycles in 2024, with 55,570 motorcycles registered. This put the county at number two, right under Los Angeles.
With so many bikers traveling through Orange County, there’s a higher risk of motorcycle accidents happening in the cities within this county. Some other stats about the frequency of motorcycle accidents to consider:
- 6,335 motorcyclists died in motorcycle accidents in 2023
- Motorcycle fatalities have now reached a rate of 31.39 per 100 million vehicle miles (NSC)
- 64% of motorcycle fatalities occurred in urban roads (NSC)
- 94% of motorcycle fatalities happened in good weather (NSC)
Why Should I File a Claim After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident in Irvine, you should consider filing a claim for the following reasons:
- The accident was caused by the reckless or negligent acts of another driver
- As a result of the accident caused by another motorist, you are now unable to work or pay for your injury expenses
- After the accident, the other liable party doesn’t admit fault for compensation
- After a motorcycle accident, the insurance provider of the other party denied your claim or provided you with lowball offers
- Your loved one died as a result from their injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver
What Kind of Compensation Can I Recover in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Don’t be left to pay out of pocket for a motorcycle accident caused by another party. The compensation from a motorcycle accident claim in Irvine can be used to cover the following expenses:
- Present and future medical expenses, including surgical treatment, medications, and physical rehabilitation
- Loss of income if you’re unable to work due to injury
- Property loss if your bike is totaled
- In-home care or home care devices like wheelchairs, walkers, etc.
- Pain and suffering caused by the injuries
- Disability if left permanently impaired
- Punitive damages may be awarded to further punish the other liable party if this was a repeated driving violation
Who Could Be Liable for My Motorcycle Accident?
Responsible parties for your Irvine motorcycle accident may include:
Another Driver
Drivers that are speeding, driving aggressively, not checking their blind spots, and recklessly turning left at intersections are often the first liable party in a motorcycle accident. Due to the size and weight of cars, buses, and vans, motorcyclists often end up with the most serious injuries and damages after an accident.
Hold the responsible drivers accountable after an accident. Consult with a motorcycle accident attorney from BD&J to learn if you have a case.
The Motorcycle or Helmet Manufacturer
If your motorcycle accident was caused by a faulty engine or other defective part of the motorcycle, the motorcycle manufacturer could be held liable after an accident. 64% of fatally injured motorcyclists were wearing helmets, so an ill-designed or defective motorcycle helmet could also hold the helmet manufacturer at fault for any injuries sustained in the motorcycle accident.
The Local City Government
A flaw in road design, lack of signage, or the presence of potholes could also result in a severe motorcycle accident. In this case, the local municipality could be held liable for any ensuing accidents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if My Loved One Died in a Motorcycle Accident?
If your loved one died in a motorcycle accident caused by the reckless or negligent acts of another person, then hold them accountable through a wrongful death claim. Through this painful and uncertain time, a compassionate wrongful death lawyer can help you throughout the claims process.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
Spouses or legally recognized domestic partners, children (biological, step, adopted, etc.), or other minors who were financially dependent on the deceased can file a wrongful death claim. In some cases, grandparents, siblings, nieces and nephews, or heirs to the deceased’s estate could file a claim.
Don’t fight this legal battle alone. Call BD&J to learn if you qualify for compensation!
Do I Have to go to Court for My Motorcycle Accident Claim
Typically not. About 95% of personal injury claims end in a pre-trial settlement, due to mediation, avoiding litigation costs, and even wanting to avoid any time delays that can come with trials. This is why working with an expert motorcycle accident lawyer who has unparalleled negotiation skills, like one from the BD&J team, is always recommended.
How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim After a Motorcycle Accident in Irvine?
Californians have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim for compensation. This deadline is known as a statute of limitations.
Can I Still File a Claim After the Statute of Limitations Runs Out?
No. After the statute of limitations runs out, people forfeit their right to file a personal injury claim for compensation.
Can I File a Personal Injury Claim Even if I Was Partially at Fault for My Accident?
Definitely. California is a comparative negligence state, which means that injured individuals can still obtain compensation even if partially at fault for their accident. The compensation amount is simply reduced by the percentage of fault the plaintiff is found to have.
How Much Does It Cost to Work with BD&J?
At BD&J, we understand that injured Irvine residents may be worried about the additional expenses that come with legal representation. Fortunately, we work on a contingency basis, which means all case costs are advanced for clients, and the final attorney fees are deducted from the final compensation after a case settles. No fees until we win*.
Are there BD&J Car Accidents Lawyers Near Me?
Absolutely! Complete our form below or call (855)906-3699 to speak with one of our experienced team members 24/7.
How To Show Liability in a Motorcycle Accident Claim
Showing liability in a motorcycle accident claim comes to proving that the reckless or negligent acts of another party caused an accident directly resulting in your injuries. Show liability in your claim by:
- Gather all evidence proving liability. – Using evidence like photos and videos of the accident and accident scene, medical documentation of injuries, eyewitness accounts, and police reports is essential to proving liability.
- Seek and follow medical treatment for injuries. – It is crucial you go to the hospital right after a motorcycle accident and follow the treatment plans recommended by your medical provider. Failing to check or treat injuries minimizes the treatment’s impact and also minimizes your claim of liability.
- File a motorcycle accident claim before the deadline. – Be sure to start your claim before 2 years has passed, in order to be eligible for compensation. It also helps to file your claim as soon as possible, while memories of the accident are still fresh, as well as testimonies from other witnesses. Not sure if you still have a case? A motorcycle accident attorney can help you learn about your legal options.
- Consult with a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. – A motorcycle accident attorney can provide further help when it comes to proving the liability of another party. Consult with a lawyer as soon as possible to learn more about the basis of your claim and next steps.
Proving liability shouldn’t be your own hurdle. Call BD&J to schedule your consultation with one of our trusted attorneys!
Dedicated Irvine Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Who Have Recovered More Than $2 Billion* in Compensation
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident in Irvine and are dealing with lowball insurance companies, liable parties who can’t admit fault, or a mountain of expenses with no end in sight, then connect with the team at BD&J. Our motorcycle accident attorneys have spent more than 20 years fighting for injured California motorists. Call us now to schedule your free initial consultation!
