Qué Esperar: El Cronograma de su Caso de Accidente de Motocicleta en California
Después de un accidente de motocicleta, usted está lidiando con lesiones dolorosas, facturas médicas que se acumulan y compañías de seguros que no tienen en cuenta sus mejores intereses. Comprender el proceso legal que le espera puede reducir la ansiedad y ayudarle a tomar decisiones informadas sobre su recuperación. Esto es exactamente lo que sucede cuando trabaja con los abogados de lesiones por motocicleta de GJEL.
Pasos Inmediatos Después de su Colisión en Motocicleta (Primeras 24-72 Horas)
1. Respuesta de Emergencia y Documentación Médica
Su Prioridad: Reciba tratamiento médico de inmediato, incluso para lesiones que parezcan menores. La adrenalina puede enmascarar condiciones graves como hemorragias internas o lesiones cerebrales traumáticas.
Antes que nada, póngase a salvo: evalúe rápidamente su entorno y, si puede, aléjese del tráfico activo y de otros peligros para reducir el riesgo de un segundo impacto.
Cómo Ayudamos: Mientras usted se concentra en sanar, podemos coordinar con los hospitales para asegurar la documentación adecuada de sus lesiones. También le ayudaremos a comprender sus derechos bajo las leyes de tratamiento médico de emergencia de California.
Una vez que esté fuera de peligro inmediato, llamar al 911 también crea un informe oficial y pone en marcha la respuesta de emergencia cuando el accidente es grave, un carril está bloqueado o alguien está lesionado.
Evaluación Gratuita del Caso (Disponible el Mismo Día)
Cronograma: Dentro de las 24 horas de haberse comunicado con nosotros
Qué Sucede: Nuestros abogados de accidentes de motocicleta de California brindan una consulta confidencial sin costo. Revisaremos los informes policiales, hablaremos sobre sus lesiones y le explicaremos sus opciones legales bajo el Código de Vehículos de California.
Qué Traer (si está disponible):
- Número del informe policial
- Información del seguro
- Fotos de las lesiones y de la escena del accidente
- Información de contacto de testigos
- Registros médicos o documentos de alta
Investigación y Preservación de Evidencia (Días 1-30)
3. Investigación Integral del Accidente
Cronograma: Comienza de inmediato al contratarnos
Nuestras Acciones:
- Desplegar expertos en reconstrucción de accidentes al lugar del choque
- Obtener grabaciones de cámaras de tráfico antes de que se eliminen (normalmente se borran después de 30 días)
- Entrevistar a testigos mientras los recuerdos están frescos
- Documentar las condiciones de la carretera, las marcas de frenado y los factores de visibilidad
- Revisar los registros de mantenimiento de todos los vehículos involucrados
Una vez que nuestra firma es contratada, también solicitamos el informe oficial de la colisión de tráfico y notificamos a las compañías de seguros que lo representamos, de modo que los ajustadores y las comunicaciones sobre el reclamo se dirijan a través de nuestra oficina. Podemos enviar cartas de preservación de evidencia al otro conductor para ayudar a proteger los datos de grabación del vehículo y los videos (como el video de la cámara del tablero) de ser eliminados o sobrescritos.
Por Qué Esto Importa: La ley de negligencia comparativa de California significa que el porcentaje de culpa asignado afecta su compensación. Una evidencia sólida lo protege de una culpa injusta.
4. Coordinación del Tratamiento Médico
Su Papel: Siga todos los consejos médicos y asista a sus citas
Nuestro Apoyo:
- Conectarlo con especialistas en lesiones por motocicleta que trabajan con gravámenes (sin pago por adelantado)
- Asegurar que todos los tratamientos estén debidamente documentados para su reclamo
- Coordinar con su seguro médico para maximizar la cobertura
- Dar seguimiento a las necesidades médicas futuras para lesiones a largo plazo
Construyendo su Caso (Meses 1-6)
5. Preparación del Paquete de Demanda
Cronograma: 2-4 meses después de alcanzar la máxima mejoría médica
Lo Que Creamos:
- Documentación integral de lesiones con pronóstico
- Cálculos de pérdidas económicas (salarios perdidos, capacidad de ingresos reducida)
- Evaluación de daños no económicos (dolor, sufrimiento, pérdida del disfrute)
- Presentaciones en video para lesiones complejas
- Testimonio pericial de profesionales médicos y economistas
Una parte clave de esta etapa es establecer el valor monetario de sus daños, traduciendo pérdidas como facturas médicas, tiempo fuera del trabajo, una motocicleta dañada y el dolor continuo en una cifra clara en dólares que mantenga las negociaciones ancladas a un perjuicio identificable.
6. Fase de negociación con el seguro
Cronograma: 30-90 días
Nuestra estrategia:
- Presentar evidencia irrefutable de responsabilidad y daños
- Rebatir ofertas muy bajas con investigación de veredictos de jurados de California
- Negociar los gravámenes médicos para maximizar su recuperación
- Manejar toda la comunicación para que usted evite dar declaraciones grabadas
Luego enviamos un paquete de demanda con los documentos de respaldo pertinentes a la compañía de seguros para iniciar las negociaciones.
Aunque en algunas situaciones podemos presentar una demanda de inmediato, por lo general primero tratamos de resolver el caso de manera informal con la compañía de seguros y solo escalamos si no es posible una resolución justa.
Importante: La Sección 790.03 del Código de Seguros de California prohíbe las prácticas injustas de acuerdo. Responsabilizamos a las aseguradoras cuando actúan de mala fe.
Fase de litigio (si el acuerdo no es justo)
7. Presentación de su demanda
Cronograma: Debe presentarse dentro de los 2 años del accidente (Código de Procedimiento Civil de California §335.1)
Excepciones:
- Participación de una entidad gubernamental: plazo de 6 meses para presentar el reclamo
- Víctimas menores de edad: hasta los 20 años
- El demandado se va de California: el plazo se pausa
Dónde presentamos: Depende de la ubicación del accidente y de los daños:
- Reclamos menores: hasta $10,000
- Civil limitado: $10,000-$25,000
- Civil ilimitado: más de $25,000
- Corte Federal: si las partes son de estados diferentes y los daños superan los $75,000
8. Proceso de descubrimiento
Cronograma: 6-12 meses
Actividades:
- Declaraciones (testimonio bajo juramento) de todas las partes
- Exámenes médicos por parte de los médicos de la defensa
- Producción de documentos e interrogatorios
- Preparación de testigos peritos
- Citaciones para obtener evidencia adicional
Si el caso no puede resolverse con la compañía de seguros, presentar una demanda lo lleva a un proceso formal que comienza con el “descubrimiento”, que incluye declaraciones y descubrimiento por escrito.
Su participación: Lo preparamos a fondo para cualquier declaración o examen, asegurándonos de que se sienta seguro y protegido.
9. Mediación y conferencias de acuerdo
Cronograma: Por lo general, 12-18 meses después de presentar la demanda. Tasa de éxito: el 85% de los casos se resuelven antes del juicio
Proceso:
- Un mediador neutral facilita la negociación
- El juez puede ordenar conferencias de acuerdo obligatorias
- Aprovechamos la disposición para ir a juicio a fin de maximizar las ofertas
La mayoría de los casos luego pasan a la mediación, que generalmente resulta en un acuerdo; si la disputa sigue sin resolverse, continuamos con la preparación del juicio y el juicio.
10. Preparación del juicio y veredicto
Cronograma: 18-24 meses si es necesario
Qué esperar:
- Selección del jurado (voir dire)
- Alegatos de apertura que presentan su historia
- Testimonio de testigos y presentación de evidencia
- Alegatos de cierre
- Deliberación del jurado y veredicto
- Mociones posteriores al juicio si es necesario
Ventaja de California: Nuestro estado permite la recuperación incluso si usted tiene parte de la culpa, a diferencia de muchos estados con severas leyes de negligencia contributiva.
Después de su acuerdo o veredicto
11. Recuperación y distribución
Cronograma: 30-60 días después de la resolución
Nuestros servicios finales:
- Negociar y pagar los gravámenes médicos
- Resolver los reembolsos del seguro médico
- Estructurar los acuerdos para obtener ventajas fiscales
- Asegurar la distribución adecuada de los fondos por muerte por negligencia
- Proporcionar la documentación del acuerdo para sus registros
Por qué el tiempo importa para los motociclistas de California
Cada día que espera puede perjudicar su caso:
- Los testigos desaparecen u olvidan detalles cruciales
- La evidencia se destruye (grabaciones de vigilancia, marcas de derrape, daños al vehículo)
- Las compañías de seguros construyen su defensa mientras usted espera
- Los vacíos en la atención médica pueden usarse en su contra
Comience hoy: su recuperación es nuestra misión
No enfrente este proceso complejo solo. Las víctimas de accidentes de motocicleta en California que contratan abogados reciben acuerdos que en promedio son 3.5 veces más altos que quienes no lo hacen.
Llame las 24 horas, los 7 días: 1-866-249-2176 para una evaluación gratuita de su caso
Obtenga una evaluación gratuita de su caso con nuestros abogados de accidentes de motocicleta
Obtenga una evaluación de su caso con nuestros abogados de accidentes de motocicleta mejor calificados. Es completamente gratis, sin obligaciones. Esta evaluación lo ayudará a entender el valor de su reclamo por accidente de motocicleta y los pasos necesarios para maximizar su recuperación económica.
En GJEL, podemos ayudarlo a maximizar el valor de su caso, asegurar que reciba la atención médica adecuada y responsabilizar a los infractores.
No permita que las preocupaciones sobre reclamos de seguros, facturas médicas o salarios perdidos no lo dejen dormir por las noches. Nuestros abogados experimentados tienen la habilidad de abordar estos problemas y más, asegurando que sus derechos estén protegidos en cada paso del camino.
Las secuelas de un accidente de motocicleta pueden ser abrumadoras, pero con GJEL a su lado, usted no está solo.
Si resultó lesionado en un accidente de motocicleta, comuníquese hoy con nuestros abogados de lesiones por motocicleta. Su camino hacia la justicia comienza aquí con GJEL Accident Attorneys.
Por qué las víctimas de accidentes de motocicleta en California necesitan representación legal especializada
Las complejidades ocultas que pueden destruir su reclamo
Andar en motocicleta en California conlleva desafíos legales únicos que la mayoría de las víctimas de accidentes no descubren hasta que es demasiado tarde. Una declaración equivocada a un ajustador de seguros, un plazo incumplido o un demandado pasado por alto puede costarle cientos de miles de dólares en la compensación que le corresponde.
Errores críticos que perjudican a los motociclistas sin representación:
Aceptar la primera oferta de acuerdo
Las compañías de seguros ofrecen acuerdos rápidos que en promedio equivalen a solo el 20% del verdadero valor de un reclamo, sabiendo que los motociclistas lesionados enfrentan facturas crecientes y presión.
No cumplir con los plazos ocultos de California
Aunque tiene 2 años para la mayoría de los reclamos, los casos que involucran a una entidad gubernamental requieren presentar un reclamo administrativo dentro de tan solo 6 meses; si no lo cumple, pierde todos los derechos a una compensación, incluso si el diseño negligente de la carretera de CalTrans causó su accidente. Entender qué tan pronto debe presentar una demanda después de su accidente de motocicleta puede significar la diferencia entre recibir una compensación completa y no recibir nada.
Dar declaraciones grabadas sin un abogado
Los ajustadores de seguros están capacitados para obtener declaraciones que dañen su caso. Frases simples como “estoy bien” o “no los vi” se convierten en armas en su contra.
No identificar a todas las partes responsables
Su accidente podría involucrar a varios demandados: el conductor, su empleador, los fabricantes de vehículos, entidades gubernamentales o empresas de construcción. Cada uno requiere estrategias legales y plazos diferentes.
Cómo los abogados experimentados en accidentes de motocicleta protegen sus derechos
1. Navegar las leyes únicas de motocicletas de California
California es el único estado donde el paso entre carriles (lane-splitting) es explícitamente legal, lo que crea preguntas complejas de responsabilidad. Nuestros abogados entienden:
- Cómo el Código de Vehículos de California §21658.1 afecta la determinación de culpa
- Cuándo se considera que el paso entre carriles es “seguro y prudente” según las pautas de la CHP
- Cómo contrarrestar los prejuicios contra los motociclistas en los reclamos de seguros
2. Maximizar la compensación mediante la construcción estratégica del caso
Sin un abogado: Acuerdo promedio: $15,000-$25,000
Con la representación de GJEL: Recuperación promedio: $150,000+ (los resultados pasados no predicen resultados futuros)
Identificamos y perseguimos todas las fuentes de compensación disponibles:
- El seguro de auto del demandado (cobertura por lesiones corporales)
- Su cobertura de conductor sin seguro/con seguro insuficiente
- La responsabilidad del empleador por accidentes de vehículos comerciales
- Reclamos de responsabilidad del producto por piezas defectuosas de motocicleta
- Reclamos gubernamentales por condiciones peligrosas de la carretera
- La responsabilidad del establecimiento (dram shop) por accidentes de conducción en estado de ebriedad
3. Manejar correctamente los reclamos contra entidades gubernamentales
Cuando su accidente de motocicleta involucra negligencia gubernamental (carreteras en mal estado, falta de señalización o semáforos que funcionan mal), las reglas cambian por completo:
Reclamo estándar por lesiones personales:
- Plazo de prescripción de 2 años
- Presentación directa de la demanda
- Reglas estándar de descubrimiento
Reclamo contra entidad gubernamental (Código de Gobierno de California §911.2):
- Plazo de 6 meses para presentar el reclamo administrativo
- Se requieren formularios específicos (deben ser exactos)
- 45-day waiting period before lawsuit
- Limited discovery rights
- Immunity defenses to overcome
Missing even one technical requirement means losing your right to compensation forever, regardless of how severe your injuries or clear the government’s fault.
4. Combating Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance companies employ teams of adjusters, investigators, and attorneys immediately after your accident. Their tactics include:
- Surveillance of your social media and activities
- Hiring accident reconstructionists to shift blame
- Delaying payments to create financial pressure
- Misrepresenting California law and your rights
- Using computer programs that undervalue injury claims
We level the playing field by matching their resources and aggressive tactics with our own experts and 40+ years of trial experience.
The True Cost of Going It Alone
What You Risk Without Proper Representation:
- Lost Evidence: Surveillance footage deleted, witnesses disappear, skid marks fade
- Undervalued Claims: Missing future medical costs, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering
- Legal Errors: Naming wrong defendants, missing deadlines, improper service
- Power Imbalance: One injured rider vs. billion-dollar insurance companies
- Secondary Victimization: Aggressive insurance tactics during your recovery
What GJEL Provides:
Immediate Evidence Preservation – We act within 24 hours
Medical Care Coordination – Treatment now, payment from settlement
Financial Protection – We advance all costs, no fees unless we win
Aggressive Advocacy – Insurance companies know we’ll go to trial
Peace of Mind – Focus on healing while we handle everything else
Why You Shouldn’t Wait To Contact An Attorney
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we know firsthand how devastating motorcycle accidents can be. One moment, you’re enjoying a ride, and the next, you find yourself in need of an auto accident lawyer near me or a motorcycle accident attorney near me. Prompt action after a motorcycle accident can greatly influence the trajectory of your case.
Here’s why you shouldn’t wait to contact California motorcycle accident injury lawyers after an accident:
- Preserving Evidence: Motorcycle accident attorneys near me understand the importance of collecting and preserving evidence. The sooner you get a lawyer involved, the sooner they can begin gathering crucial evidence from the scene of the accident, witness statements, and camera footage.
- Handling Insurance Companies: An experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles, or wherever your accident occurred, knows how to deal with insurance companies effectively. They will protect your rights and ensure that the insurance companies do not take advantage of you.
- Medical Bills and Lost Wages: After an accident, medical bills can pile up quickly and you might not be able to return to work immediately. A motorcycle attorney near me or a car accident lawyer can help you secure compensation for these costs.
- Legal Advice: An accident can be confusing, and you might not be familiar with the legal process. A car accident attorney or personal injury lawyer can provide valuable legal advice and help you understand your rights.
- Personal Injury Claims: If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may have a personal injury claim. Our experienced personal injury lawyers can evaluate your claim and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, pain, and suffering.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer near me today. At GJEL Accident Attorneys, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers is ready to help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the justice you deserve.
A Previous Case Result From A Client In A Motor Bike Crash
A young Naval officer was riding his motorcycle on Highway101 in San Jose when a driver changing lanes swerved into him and caused him to crash. Although both drivers were going less than 25 mph due to rush hour traffic, the young rider still took some serious bodily harm, including head trauma that has left him with permanent memory trouble.
Due to his injuries, his responsibilities at his job have had to be adjusted. Thankfully, the Navy has been incredibly accommodating to his needs. Even so, he will, unfortunately, feel the effects of this accident forever.
The at-fault driver only carried insurance with a $100,000 policy limit, but GJEL did succeed in recovering this full amount.
The Motorcycle Injury Attorneys at GJEL are standing by ready to help in your time of need
We focus on serious injury and wrongful death cases throughout California only. Our priority is to get justice for motorcycle accident victims.
What to Do After a California Motorcycle Crash: Protecting Your Rights and Recovery
Immediate Steps That Can Make or Break Your Case
The moments after a motorcycle accident are critical. Your actions now directly impact your ability to recover maximum compensation later. Even if adrenaline is masking your pain, follow these essential steps to protect both your health and your legal rights.
Priority 1: Medical Safety First
Always call 911 – even if you feel fine. Internal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal damage often don’t show symptoms immediately. Refusing medical attention becomes ammunition for insurance companies to claim you weren’t really hurt. Document everything:
- Accept emergency treatment and transport
- Follow all medical recommendations
- Keep every receipt and record
- Never downplay your injuries to medical staff
Una vez que esté fuera de peligro inmediato, llamar al 911 también crea un informe oficial y pone en marcha la respuesta de emergencia cuando el accidente es grave, un carril está bloqueado o alguien está lesionado.
Priority 2: Document Everything While Evidence Is Fresh
If you’re physically able:
- Photograph all vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and your injuries
- Record witness names and contact information
- Note weather conditions, time of day, and traffic patterns
- Save torn clothing and damaged safety gear
- Never admit fault or discuss the accident beyond basic facts with police
Exchange basic information with all involved drivers (name, contact details, and insurance information shown on their license/insurance card).
Priority 3: Deal with Insurance Companies Strategically
Insurance adjusters will contact you within hours, trained to minimize your claim. Remember:
- You’re not required to give recorded statements
- Don’t accept quick settlement offers
- Refer all calls to your attorney once retained
- Your own insurance company isn’t necessarily on your side
Be careful with early questions—adjusters may use leading questions to elicit responses that can be treated as admissions, even when you’re just trying to be polite or apologetic.
After you’ve spoken with 911, make your first call to GJEL so our California motorcycle accident attorneys can answer case-specific questions and step in before insurers control the narrative.
Understanding Your Legal Options: Claim vs. Lawsuit
After ensuring your immediate safety, you have two primary paths to compensation. Choosing correctly can mean the difference between covering your medical bills and securing your financial future.
Option 1: Insurance Claim Process
Most motorcycle accident cases begin with an insurance claim. Here’s what actually happens:
The Investigation Phase:
- Insurance adjusters investigate (looking for ways to deny/reduce your claim)
- They’ll request statements, medical records, and documentation
- Computer programs calculate lowball settlement offers
- You’ll face pressure to settle quickly for less than you deserve
Why Claims Often Fail Without Legal Representation:
- Adjusters use your statements against you
- Complex medical injuries get undervalued
- Future costs aren’t properly calculated
- You don’t know the true value of your case
Option 2: Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit
When insurance companies refuse fair compensation, litigation becomes necessary. This involves:
Building Your Legal Case:
- Filing within California’s 2-year statute of limitations (or 6 months for government claims)
- Conducting discovery to uncover evidence
- Deposing witnesses and the at-fault driver
- Working with accident reconstruction experts
- Preparing for trial while negotiating for maximum settlement
The Power of Being Trial-Ready: Insurance companies know which law firms actually go to trial. When you’re represented by GJEL, they know we have the resources and willingness to take your case to a jury – resulting in significantly higher settlement offers.
Proving Negligence in California Motorcycle Accidents
To secure compensation, we must establish the at-fault driver’s negligence through five critical elements:
1. Duty of Care
Every driver has a legal obligation to operate safely around motorcyclists. This includes:
- Checking blind spots before lane changes
- Yielding right-of-way appropriately
- Maintaining safe following distances
- Staying alert and undistracted
2. Breach of Duty
We prove the driver violated their duty through:
- Traffic violations (speeding, running red lights, illegal turns)
- Distracted driving (texting, eating, adjusting controls)
- Impaired driving (alcohol, drugs, fatigue)
- Aggressive driving behaviors
3. Causation
Connecting the driver’s actions directly to your injuries using:
- Police reports and witness testimony
- Traffic camera footage
- Accident reconstruction analysis
- Medical expert testimony linking injuries to the crash
4. Foreseeability
Demonstrating that your injuries were predictable consequences of the driver’s negligence – motorcycle accidents causing serious injuries are always foreseeable when drivers act carelessly.
5. Damages
Documenting all losses you’ve suffered:
- Economic Damages: Medical bills, lost wages, motorcycle repair/replacement, future care costs
- Non-Economic Damages: Pain, suffering, emotional distress, loss of life enjoyment
- Punitive Damages: When the driver’s conduct was especially reckless
Why California Motorcycle Cases Require Specialized Legal Expertise
Unique Challenges Motorcyclists Face:
- Bias Against Riders: Juries often assume motorcyclists are reckless
- Severe Injuries: Catastrophic injuries require extensive future care planning
- Complex Liability: Lane-splitting and comparative fault issues
- Multiple Insurance Policies: Navigating coverage from various sources
How GJEL Overcomes These Challenges:
- Motorcycle-Specific Expertise: We understand rider culture and safety practices
- Aggressive Advocacy: Fighting bias with facts and expert testimony
- Maximum Value Recovery: Identifying all compensation sources
- Trial Experience: Insurance companies know we’ll go to court
The Real Cost of Delay
Every day you wait to get legal help costs you:
Evidence Degradation Timeline:
- 48 Hours: Skid marks begin fading
- 7 Days: Surveillance footage typically deleted
- 30 Days: Witnesses become difficult to locate
- 60 Days: Vehicle evidence may be destroyed
- 6 Months: Government claim deadline expires
Financial Pressure Mounting:
- Medical bills going to collections
- Lost wages depleting savings
- Insurance companies building their defense
- Accepting inadequate settlements out of desperation
Your Next Step: Secure Your Recovery Today
Don’t let insurance companies decide what your injuries are worth. The decisions you make now affect the rest of your life – physically, emotionally, and financially.
Get the legal firepower you need to level the playing field.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycle fatalities have increased over 129% from 2,028 in 1997 to 4,654 in 2006.
However, most of the injuries sustained are to the lower body. Common injuries include road rash, broken bones, as well as back and spine injuries.
Motorcycle accidents can result in a range of injuries, some of which can be quite severe given the relative lack of protection a motorcycle provides compared to a car. Here is a list of common motorcycle accident injuries:
- Road Rash: This is a skin abrasion that occurs when a rider slides across the surface of the road after a fall from their motorcycle. Depending on the severity, road rash can lead to serious skin damage, infections, and even permanent scarring.
- Head Injuries: This is a broad category that includes concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and skull fractures. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of severe head injuries.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These can range from mild strains to paralysis, depending on the area and severity of the injury. In the worst-case scenarios, spinal cord injuries can lead to permanent disability.
- Broken Bones: These are common in motorcycle accidents due to the impact of the crash. Commonly fractured bones include the collarbone, wrists, arms, and legs.
- Biker’s Arm: This is a term for nerve damage in the arm that occurs when a motorcyclist instinctively uses their arm to break a fall during an accident.
- Leg and Foot Injuries: This includes fractures, sprains, and cuts to the legs and feet. While these injuries are often not life-threatening, they can still be debilitating
- Internal Injuries: These occur when the impact of a crash causes internal damage to organs, blood vessels, or the abdomen. These injuries can be life-threatening and often require immediate medical attention.
- Facial Injuries: These can occur if a rider’s face comes into contact with the road, another vehicle, or debris. They can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe lacerations and jaw or facial fractures.
- Neck Injuries: These can range from whiplash, a common injury caused by the sudden force of impact, to more serious injuries like neck fractures.
- Psychological Trauma: Motorcycle accidents can also lead to psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
Remember, the best way to prevent these injuries is to practice safe riding techniques, always wear a helmet and protective gear, and follow the rules of the road.
If you’ve been seriously injured in a motorcycle crash , understanding the common causes can help you build a stronger case with an experienced San Jose motorcycle accident attorney who knows how to investigate these complex accidents.
How Will Comparative Negligence Impact My Case?
California courts apply a legal theory known as pure comparative negligence to personal injury cases, including motorcycle accident lawsuits. Under this theory, if there is evidence that the plaintiff was also substantially at fault for the accident, the amount of money he or she ultimately receives will be reduced by the percentage of his or her responsibility.
In many motorcycle accident lawsuits, the at-fault driver will argue that the injured motorcyclist was also negligent in causing the accident. While this is sometimes true, this is often used as a defense tactic by the at-fault driver’s lawyers to reduce the amount of damages you receive for your injuries and other losses.
For example, say a truck driver and a motorcyclist are in an accident. As a result of the accident, the motorcyclist suffered $250,000 in damages. The lawyers for the truck driver successfully argue that the motorcyclist was 40% at fault for the accident. Under California law, the motorcyclist’s damages would be reduced by 40% to $150,000.
This is one of the many reasons why it is important to hire an experienced and aggressive motorcycle accident lawyer to handle your case.
Types of Damages in a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
The ultimate goal of any motorcycle accident lawsuit is to secure compensation for the victim’s injuries and other harms that he or she suffered. In California, a plaintiff who succeeds in his or her motorcycle accident lawsuit can expect to receive compensation for the following types of damages.
Past & Future Medical Treatment Costs
If you succeed in your lawsuit and the other party or parties were totally at fault, you can expect to receive full compensation for the costs of any past and future medical treatment needed as a result of the injuries you sustained in the accident.
This includes costs for time spent in an emergency room or care facility, copayments for visits to your doctor or other treatment facilities, costs of prescription drugs and other medical supplies, and the cost of any ongoing physical therapy or long-term care.
Pain And Suffering Compensation
If the injuries you sustained in your motorcycle accident were severe and lead you to experience extreme pain and emotional suffering, you may be entitled to compensation. Your lawyer can help you determine whether it’s appropriate to pursue compensation for this type of damage as part of your lawsuit.
Many motorcycle accident victims are forced to take time away from their jobs to recover from the serious injuries they suffer in accidents. Unfortunately, some are left unable to work for extended periods of time or become permanently disabled.
If you lose wages or have your ability to work is impacted as a result of a motorcycle accident, you deserve to be compensated for your financial loss.
Property Damage
If your motorcycle or property you were riding with at the time of the accident was damaged, you may receive compensation for the fair market value of your bike and other property at the time of the motorcycle accident.
The Motorcycle injury attorneys at GJEL are standing by ready to help in your time of need. We boast a team of the best motorcycle injury attorneys in the region, dedicated to fighting for your rights after an accident.
Top Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in California
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, motorcycle fatalities increased to 548 in 2016 from 494 in 2015—an increase of over 10%. There were also over 13,000 injury collisions involving motorcycles in 2015.
Although riding a motorcycle is a popular hobby thanks to the state’s scenery and weather, accident statistics like these should give all bikers pause.
Below, we summarize some of the top causes of motorcycle accidents. Often, motorcyclists themselves are at fault for accidents, but most accidents are caused by other motorists on the road.
Drunk Drivers and Drunk Riders
Alcohol plays a large role in many collisions. According to California’s Internet Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) data, alcohol or drugs were the primary factor in around 7% of all collisions where the motorcyclist was at fault for the crash. Drugs and alcohol might have also been a contributing factor in many more accidents.
These statistics do not include accidents where another motorist is responsible for the collision. In those cases, impaired motorists can collide with motorcyclists for a variety of reasons:
The impaired driver cannot see the biker, especially at night. The impaired motorist cannot judge distances properly and might try to execute a left-hand turn directly in front of the motorcycle. An impaired motorist has slowed reflexes, which prevents them from braking or swerving in time to avoid an accident.
Driving Too Fast for Conditions or Speeding
By far the largest cause of motorcycle accidents is driving too fast for the conditions. According to California data, this was the primary collision factor in almost half of all accidents that were the fault of the motorcyclist.
Driving too fast can cause accidents in a variety of ways. For example, the motorcyclist will have less time to stop or slow down when traveling too fast. It is very easy to suddenly come upon something in the road, like a stranded motorist, and not have sufficient time to act.
Traveling fast can also make a biker lose control of the bike. The chances of hydroplaning or skidding out increase dramatically depending on how fast the bike is traveling.
Other motorists can also collide with motorcyclists when they are traveling too fast for the same reasons as those listed above.
Illegal or Improper Turns
A large number of accidents are also caused by improper turning. Though motorcyclists can sometimes make an improper turn and cause a crash, it is far more likely that another motorist makes a turn that causes an accident.
In fact, cars making left-hand turns cause around 42% of all fatal accidents with motorcycles. These accidents often occur at intersections, where a motorist is waiting patiently to make a turn. Often, motorists, unfortunately, do not even see motorcycles coming toward them.
Sometimes, the motorcycle is hidden behind a car, and the driver assumes that there is no traffic behind the vehicle passing through the intersection. As a result, they quickly execute a left-hand turn—and smash directly into a motorcyclist moving through the intersection.
In other situations, a motorist waiting to make a left-hand turn might see an approaching motorcycle but believe the bike is traveling much slower than it is. Other motorists simply lack respect for bikers and think the biker should stop for them when they make a left-hand turn.
Whatever the reason, improper turns are a serious factor in many accidents. To protect yourself, motorcyclists should always exercise extreme caution when approaching an intersection. It is also helpful to ride closer to the center line so that the waiting motorist can see that you are behind another car.
Distracted Driving
The sad fact is that too many people are trying to do too many things while out on the road.
Instead of focusing on driving, many motorists and motorcyclists are instead talking on the phone, sending or reading a text message, eating, or otherwise spacing out.
Problems with distracted driving are heightened for motorcyclists because they are often invisible to other drivers.
Motorcycles tend to blend with the road or with other cars, and drivers are not really looking for motorcyclists.
Also, many bikers wear dark helmets and dark clothing, which further acts to mask them.
Following Too Closely
Motorists need a cushion between them and surrounding vehicles in case they need to stop or slow down. When motorists follow too closely, they can easily collide with other vehicles around them.
According to SWITRS data, following too closely was the primary cause in fewer than 2% of all accidents where the motorcyclist was at fault. However, tailgating might also have been a contributing cause of many more accidents.
Lane Splitting: While Legal – Not Recommended
Because motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles, some bikers like to drive between two lanes of slowed or stopped cars to make headway in traffic jams. This is called “lane splitting,” and it, unfortunately, is quite dangerous.
In lane-splitting crashes, fault often turns on whether the rider was splitting with due caution and what the driver did—if a driver changes lanes into a rider who is splitting cautiously, the lane-changing driver may be at fault. We also evaluate speed-related benchmarks commonly cited as safety guidelines.
When you lane split, you risk striking a vehicle or having a vehicle strike you as it inches along the road. Most motorists are not expecting motorcyclists to threat in and out of traffic, so they might not be looking for you.
Colliding with a Fixed Object
A large number of motorcycle deaths stem from motorcycles colliding with stationary objects like trees, mailboxes, fire hydrants, and walls. There are many reasons why a motorcyclist would collide with objects that they should be able to avoid. For example, a motorcyclist might become distracted, either because they are reading a text message or talking on the phone.
Motorcyclists might also lose control in inclement weather and crash into objects. The reasons for losing control might vary, with driving too fast for conditions being one reason.
Unsafe Roads
Sometimes defects on the road cause motorcycle accidents. Because of their smaller size and greater instability, motorcycles often have more trouble with road defects than operators of passenger vehicles or commercial trucks. Many different road hazards can cause a biker to lose control, including:
Potholes Uneven pavement Sloping roads Defective shoulders Oiliness or other slickness on the road
Some road defects have existed for years without the government taking any action to make the road safer for all motorists, including bikers. In certain situations, you can sue the government for failing to repair the road.
Dooring or Car Doors
A vehicle parked on the side of the road usually poses no problem to a motorcyclist. However, if a passenger in the vehicle opens a door without looking behind them, then the biker can drive straight into the door. Many bikers tear the door off and/or end up being thrown clear of their bike, where they collide with the pavement or another parked vehicle.
In city driving, you can avoid this problem by driving closer to the center of the lane. Also avoid trying to pass vehicles on the right, which could put you in direct line for striking the opened door of a parked car.
Defective Motorbikes
Even careful defensive driving cannot prevent all accidents because sometimes a crash is caused by your bike. When a motorcycle malfunction, even the most skill biker can lose control and end up colliding with another vehicle or a stationary object.
Injured in a California Motorcycle Accident? GJEL Can Help
California motorcyclists are not powerless after an accident. Even if you are suffering from serious injuries and unable to work, you can still take matters into your own hands. In particular, you might be able to file a claim for compensation if someone else is responsible for the accident.
Call our motorcycle accident liability lawyers in California today for a free case review.
At GJEL, we have experience holding the following entities responsible for collisions our clients suffer:
Motorists for driving negligently or recklessly
Motorcycle manufacturers for putting defective motorcycles or motorcycle parts into the stream of commerce The government for not properly maintaining roads
Each case is different, so you need an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Northern California to help you build your case for compensation. For example, suing the state or one of its municipalities is a much different process than seeking compensation from the driver of a passenger vehicle on the road.
You need to meet deadlines and give the government notice of your claim before you can file a lawsuit in court.
To learn more about how we can help, please reach out to us as soon as possible. One of our Northern California motorcycle accident attorneys will be happy to meet with you to discuss the circumstances surrounding your crash. We can help identify whether you have a valid legal claim and against who. Please call 1-866-294-6918 or submit our contact form.
Avoid delay. California does not give injured bikers an unlimited amount of time to pursue compensation for their injuries. The sooner you contact us, the faster we can go about getting you compensation for your injuries.
Are Motorcycle Accidents Treated Different Than Accidentes de Auto? Technically, motorcycle accidents and auto accidents are treated identically under the law, but as a practical matter, juries are less kind and less favorable to motorcycle riders than they are to automobile drivers. And this is very often an unfair stereotype.
The jury sometimes assumes that the motorcyclist is crazy, taking unnecessary risks, etc – but we do an awful lot of motorcycle injury cases, and these stereotypes can be overcome just by demonstrating that the person was doing everything right, and was just trying to get to work and that it was not their fault.
We Are An Award Winning Motorcycle Accident Injury Law Firm
GJEL Accident Attorneys was just rated a top motorcycle accident law firm by Best Lawyers for 2021 and 2022. We have also recovered over $950 million with a 99% success rate for victims who sustained this injury.
If you’re searching for a “motorcycle accident attorney near me,” look no further than GJEL Accident Attorneys – we’re ready to provide you with the expert legal representation you need.
We have offices throughout Northern California. For residents of Southern California, GJEL Accident Attorneys serves as a premier motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles, ready to provide expert legal support for victims of motorcycle accidents, but we do not have an office located there.
California Motorcycle Accident Law Offices Near You
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we understand the unique challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims in California. Motorcycle accidents can occur in a variety of ways, including rear-end collisions, left-turn accidents, and incidents involving lane splitting or speeding. Each type of accident presents its own set of complexities, and our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in navigating these intricacies to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, ranging from traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage to road rash, broken bones, and internal injuries. The aftermath of such an accident can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive legal support to motorcycle accident victims, helping them navigate the medical, insurance, and legal processes that follow such an incident.
According to recent motorcycle accident statistics, California sees a significant number of these accidents each year. As legal professionals, we believe it’s crucial to understand and communicate these statistics to highlight the importance of safe riding practices and the potential consequences of negligence on the road.
One of the key legal aspects of a motorcycle accident case is proving negligence. In California, this involves demonstrating that the other party had a duty of care, breached this duty and that this breach directly resulted in your injuries. Our attorneys are skilled in gathering and presenting evidence to establish negligence, from traffic camera footage and witness statements to expert testimonies.
Another critical aspect is understanding the potential compensation motorcycle accident victims can receive. This may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we strive to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation they are entitled to.
Lastly, it’s important to note that there is a statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit in California. This means you have a limited time to take legal action after your accident. Our team can guide you through this timeline and ensure all necessary steps are taken promptly.
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we are committed to standing by motorcycle accident victims every step of the way. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free case review.
GJEL has been rated as a top motorcycle injury lawyer by Best Lawyer, Newsweek, and US News & World Report.
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ABOUT THE REVIEWER
Andrew (Andy) R. Gillin is a founding partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has practiced personal injury law in California state and federal courts since 1970. He earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Chicago Law School and co-founded GJEL in 1972. Over the course of his career, Andy has helped hundreds of injured plaintiffs recover compensation, including multiple seven-figure settlements and verdicts. He specializes in serious injury and wrongful death cases and holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, with recognition from Super Lawyers and Best Lawyers in America.
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