Assisting Injured Victims Throughout California
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating — because motorcycles offer fewer protections for riders than cars and other vehicles, collisions often result in extensive injury. Unfortunately, these types of accidents occur all too often as car and truck drivers fail to pay attention to motorcyclists on the road. If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident that resulted in bodily injury, emotional distress, or even death, our firm is here to help.
At BD&J, our team of skilled Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorneys has helped thousands of injured victims fight for the fair compensation they are owed. When another person’s careless or reckless behavior causes an accident that leaves you injured, you shouldn’t have to suffer on your own. Let our firm stand up for your rights.
Understanding the Risks for Motorcyclists in California
California has some of the highest rates of motorcycle registrations in the U.S., and unfortunately, that means more crashes too. In 2022, California experienced 634 motorcycle fatalities. With heavy traffic in big cities like Los Angeles, riders are at a constant risk from distracted drivers, sudden lane changes, and blind spots. Many accidents occur at intersections or on freeways in moments where drivers fail to stop, speed, or violate lane-splitting laws. Due to the lack of physical protection, even minor collisions can cause serious injuries to the rider. This is why working with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is essential to your case; they know how to handle these unique challenges.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are often the fault of other drivers. Motorcycles are smaller and faster than cars, and drivers do not always look for motorcyclists before changing lanes, turning, or stopping at red lights. Additionally, debris and unsafe road conditions are typically far more dangerous for motorcyclists than the average auto driver.
Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Sudden stop collisions – This occurs when a vehicle rear-ends a motorcycle rider from behind. This can cause the rider to be catapulted off their bike, leading to severe injuries.
- Collisions with cars and trucks – Anytime a vehicle collides with a motorcycle.
- Single motorcycle accidents – Whether you’re an experienced or novice bike rider, you are susceptible to any form of accident. These accidents can happy anytime, anywhere, and riders should always be ready in case an accident does occur.
- Open door accidents – Many drivers do not keep an open eye out for motorcycle riders who are lane-splitting or riding normally through traffic. When you lane-split between vehicles, a random vehicle opening their door in the middle of the road and hitting you is a possibility. This type of accident can send riders flying off their bike, or worse, dying from severe injuries.
- Road rage and aggressive maneuvering– Oftentimes, road rage occurs because motorists grow impatient or because one wants to intimidate the other for petty reasons. This can occur when motorists try to intentionally block motorcycle riders from passing by.
- Hazardous weather and highways – Rain, snow, sleet, hail, fires, oil slicks, potholes, and debris on the road are all contributors to motorcycle accidents.
Nearly all motorcycle accidents are serious. You may be suffering not only from painful physical injuries, but also financial stress due to mounting medical bills, lost wages, and an inability to return to work. These are all compounded by the emotional trauma of suffering a devastating accident.
Safety Reminders for Motorcyclists
- Stay vigilant at all times and always wear bright noticeable gear
- Don’t become overzealous with your motorcycle and start trying to do dangerous maneuvers in traffic
- When at a complete stop, make sure you are paying attention to approaching vehicles
- Do not cut off vehicles while in moving traffic — you may get clipped in the rear and spin out of control, or worse
What Makes Motorcycle Injury Cases Different?
Motorcycle cases often require a different approach than car accidents. Insurance companies may try to blame the rider or downplay the severity of the injuries to weaken the case. These efforts can result in lowball settlement offers. Motorcycle accident attorneys in Los Angeles know how to fight against these tactics. They work with specialists, medical experts, and investigators to strengthen your case and prove fault.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents are more likely to result in serious injuries than other types of collisions. This is usually due to the lack of protection bikes offer compared to other vehicles. Common injuries include:
- Road rash: This happens when the rider slides across the pavement, causing severe skin abrasions that can lead to infections and scarring.
- Fractures: Broken bones, particularly in the arms, legs and ribs, are caused by impact with other vehicles and the road.
- Head injuries: Even with a helmet, riders can suffer concussions or traumatic brain injuries. These can have long-term effects that require costly therapy.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in catastrophic injury, including partial or complete paralysis, significantly altering the victim’s life.
- Internal injuries: The impact of a crash can cause internal bleeding and/or organ damage, which almost always require immediate medical attention.
How to Find the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in California
Choosing the right attorney is one of the most important decisions after a crash. Make sure to look for an attorney that has experience with motorcycle cases. Not all personal injury lawyers understand the dangers that come with riding. An attorney should have a track record of success, as well. Make sure to ask about past verdicts or settlements in motorcycle cases. Look for a lawyer who offers clear communication. You want someone who explains the process, answers questions, and won’t leave you in the dark. At BD&J, our motorcycle accident attorneys are committed to protecting riders’ rights and helping them recover and receive the compensation they deserve.
How to Collect Evidence for your Motorcycle Case
It is important to gather evidence that supports your claim in order to have a strong case. Here’s how you can support your claim:
- Take photos and videos: Document the scene of the collision, all vehicles involved, road conditions, weather, traffic signals, and any injuries.
- Collect Witness Information: Gather the names and contact information of anyone who saw the crash and can help back up your version of events.
- Preserve Medical Records: Save your medical records; they will be useful later on. Hold on to all doctor notes, hospital bills, prescriptions, and physical therapy documentation. All of these things can be used as proof of injury.
- Avoid Posting on Social Media: Everything you post online can be used against you. Until your case is resolved, keep accident details offline and avoid posting anything that contradicts your claim.
Determining Fault in Motorcycle Accidents
It can be difficult to determine fault in motorcycle accidents. This affects how your case is resolved and whether you can get the compensation you deserve for an accident you didn’t cause.
A skilled motorcycle accident attorney can help you through the process by investigating the facts of your case. They’ll gather information about your version of the events and help you secure the compensation necessary to cover medical bills and lost income from the accident.
Lane Splitting in California
One of the more unique aspects of motorcycle law in California is the legality of lane splitting. Lane splitting allows motorcyclists to ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. While this is generally legal, there are times when it can affect your claim.
If you’re involved in an accident while lane splitting, the circumstances surrounding the maneuver will be closely examined to determine fault. This is why you need an experienced motorcycle injury lawyer in California to help navigate these complexities and ensure your rights are protected.
What Compensation Is Available for Motorcyclists?
If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to various kinds of compensation. Knowing what these are can help you recover financially after an accident.
The best injury lawyers work to secure these types of compensation for their clients:
- Medical expenses: This includes all current and future medical costs related to the accident, such as hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation and potentially expensive prescription medication.
- Lost wages: If the injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to claim compensation for lost income and any future earnings you may be unable to earn.
- Pain and suffering: This refers to non-economic damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: Reimbursement may be available for repairs or replacement of the motorcycle and any other damaged property.
- Loss of consortium: This compensation is for the impact the injuries have on the victim’s relationship with their spouse or family.
Motorcycle law is complicated, even by the standards of accident investigations and car crash lawsuits. If you want to increase your chances of receiving compensation after a motorcycle crash, you may need an experienced motorcycle accident attorney on your side. It’s essential to look for an attorney with a proven track record of success with cases like yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?
The first step is to get medical attention, even if you feel fine. Many injuries may not be apparent right away. Call the police to report the accident and obtain an official report. Take photos of the scene, collect witness information, and avoid making statements until you speak with an attorney.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in California?
In most cases, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is two years from the date of the accident. If your claim involves a government entity, such as unsafe road conditions, the time frame can be much shorter. It’s best to contact a motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles as soon as possible to protect your rights.
What damages can I recover after a motorcycle crash?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, future loss of wages, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, and property damage. In extreme negligence cases, punitive damages may also be available. Punitive damages are awarded in addition to actual damages in certain circumstances. An experienced attorney will know how to evaluate your claim to ensure you get what you deserve.
How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles?
Most motorcycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. This allows accident victims to pursue justice without financial barriers.
What are punitive damages?
Punitive damages are additional financial compensation passed down through a verdict in court to punish a party for excessive negligence, carelessness, recklessness, or malice. While most car accidents do not receive additional punitive damages, clients that are involved in accidents due to the other party driving under the influence or acting out of road rage often receive punitive damages.
Do I have to call the police after a motorcycle accident?
California state law states that all motorists involved in an accident in which there is an injury, death, or vehicle damage totaling more than $1,000 must report the accident to the police. Because you should never assume there are no injuries, it is safest to always report the accident. You can call the non-emergency number for your local police department to report. Dispatch will send an officer to the scene to take statements from each party and issue citations, if necessary.
How Our Firm Can Help
At BD&J, we believe that you shouldn’t have to suffer on your own. Our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers are prepared to take on the liable insurance companies to work towards recovering the full, fair amount you are owed.
While financial reparation won’t negate your suffering, it can help you in your recovery by allowing you access to the medical treatments you need. At our Los Angeles office, we provide our outstanding legal services on a contingency-fee basis in order to ease the financial burden you are facing.
