California is home to more than 800,000 registered motorcyclists. Its scenic highways, pleasant climate, and opportunities for riding make the state a motorcyclist’s dream. Unfortunately, a large number of motorcycles on the road means that more crashes occur. If you or someone you love has been hurt or suffered a loss as a result of a motorcycle crash, you need the help of a seasoned Encino personal injury attorney.
When you start missing paychecks and medical bills are piling up, we can fight to recoup the maximum amount of compensation you deserve for your injuries. We will work with you to negotiate a fair and appropriate settlement, and if we cannot settle, we will take the battle to court. We will protect your legal rights every step of the way and help you get through the complexities of the legal system so that you can focus on healing.
Motorcycle Accidents in California
Although motorcyclists nationwide account for just 3 percent of vehicle owners, they represent 17 percent of roadway fatalities. Common types of motorcycle accidents include:
- Rear-ending
- Violation of right-of-way
- Cell phone use or distracted driving
- Left-turn collisions
Nearly 12,000 motorcyclists were injured in traffic collisions in 2013, according to California’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, and motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to be killed in a car crash than car passengers.
Causes of California Motorcycle Crashes
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the majority of collisions between motorcycles and other vehicles are caused by the drivers of the other vehicles. Most commonly, the other driver fails to yield or turns left in front of an oncoming motorcyclist, which causes the motorcyclist to strike the car.
Other common causes of motorcycle crashes include:
- Speeding
- Improper turning
- Riding on the wrong side of the road
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcyclists can reduce the risk of injury by wearing protective clothing and helmets, but no gear can protect them from all harm while riding. Unlike cars and trucks, which create a barrier between their passengers and the outside and offer a variety of protective features, motorcycles leave bikers extremely vulnerable.
The most commonly reported injuries associated with motorcycle accidents include:
- Internal organ damage
- Arm and leg fractures
- Knee and foot injuries
- Amputations
- Head and traumatic brain injuries
- Blood loss
- Severe burns
- Severe burns
- Eye and facial injuries
- Road rash
Even low-speed crashes can involve multiple injuries while higher speed crashes can have catastrophic injuries or death.
Potential Damages for Victims of Motorcycle Accidents
When you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to collect damages based on the losses you have suffered. Several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent to which they have affected your life and the relative degree of fault can all play a role in the level of damages you may be awarded.
You may be compensated for:
- Medical bills, including emergency room care, rehabilitation, and physical therapy
- Lost wages
- Reduced wages
- Disability and disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
In cases where extreme negligence or malicious behavior caused or contributed to the collision, you may be entitled to collect punitive damages as well. Punitive damages do not compensate you for any injury but are intended as punishment.
Personal Injury Compensation
When you suffer an injury or loss as a result of another person’s actions or negligence, that person can be held responsible. Although there is no precise formula to determine which experiences you might have missed as a result of your accident or what price should be put on your pain and suffering, an experienced attorney understands the best way to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Call an Encino Personal Injury Attorney Today.
Motorcycle accidents can be catastrophic, and they can leave you feeling helpless in their wake. Insurance companies don’t make the experience easier, either, by pestering you with small settlement offers. An experienced Encino personal injury attorney can give you a voice and fight back against the insurance companies. We work hard to get the compensation you deserve. At Valley Accident Lawyers, our Encino personal injury attorneys stand up for our clients and protect their rights. Call us today at (818) 933-2999 to schedule your no-obligation consultation.
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If you or a loved one has been injured, you will want a top rated San Fernando Valley personal injury attorney that understands how to get the maximum compensation you deserve. Our pledge is to be your partner, and provide passionate, yet skillful legal representation needed to win your case. Contact our highly trained personal injury lawyers today for a free case evaluation.