Motorcycle Accident Personal Injury Lawyers in California

We can definitely help you with your case. We will gather necessary evidence, like traffic camera footage or data from vehicle black boxes, and work with accident reconstruction experts if needed. Our lawyers will evaluate all these factors and apply them to California’s comparative negligence law, which allows for the apportionment of fault among all parties involved.

Remember, even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation for your injuries, so it’s crucial to get professional legal advice.

A hit-and-run accident is a traumatic experience and can leave you feeling helpless and confused. If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s important to remember that you still have legal rights and options.

The first step is to call the police. Fleeing the scene of an accident is a crime in California, and law enforcement will want to document what happened. Provide them with as much information as you can, including a description of the other vehicle, the direction it was traveling in, and any details about the driver.

It’s also crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you think your injuries are minor, some symptoms may not manifest immediately after an accident. A thorough medical examination will not only ensure your well-being but also serve as official documentation of your injuries, which can be crucial for any subsequent legal or insurance actions.

Talk to our experienced personal injury lawyers. We can help navigate the complexities of your hit-and-run case and ensure you are pursuing all possible avenues for compensation. Remember, you have rights, and an experienced lawyer can be an invaluable ally during this difficult time.

California has several specific laws that apply to motorcycle riders to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. Here are some of the key ones:

• Helmet Law: Under California Vehicle Code Section 27803, all motorcycle riders and passengers are required to wear a U.S. Department of Transportation compliant helmet when riding a motorcycle.
• Lane Splitting: As of 2017, California officially legalized lane splitting (riding a motorcycle between rows of stopped or moving cars in the same lane), making it the first state to do so. The law is outlined under Assembly Bill 51.
• Training and License: All motorcycle riders in California must have a motorcycle endorsement (M1 or M2) on their driver’s license. To obtain this, riders must complete a California Highway Patrol-approved motorcycle training course, or, if they are over 21, they can choose to take a skills test at a DMV office.
• Equipment Requirements: Motorcycles must meet certain equipment requirements, including having handlebars not higher than the rider’s shoulders, functioning turn signals and a working exhaust system. All these requirements are stipulated in the California Vehicle Code.
• DUI Laws: The same DUI laws that apply to other motor vehicles in California also apply to motorcycles. Riders found to be operating a motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs can face severe penalties.

1. Traffic Laws: Familiarity with local traffic laws is essential in determining fault. Any violation of these laws, such as running a red light, speeding, or reckless driving, can be a strong indicator of fault.
2. Police Reports: After an accident, a police officer typically arrives on the scene to gather evidence and create an accident report. This report can be a crucial piece of evidence when determining fault as it contains the officer’s professional opinion on who caused the accident based on their assessment of the scene.
3. Witness Statements: Witnesses can provide a neutral perspective of the accident. Their statements can corroborate your version of events or provide additional details that help establish fault.
4. Evidence from the Scene: Photos or videos from the accident scene can also help determine fault. This could include damage to vehicles, skid marks, or any other physical evidence that could indicate how the collision occurred.
5. Expert Testimony: In some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be called upon to recreate the accident using the available evidence and provide professional insights into what likely happened.
6. Insurance Company Investigations: Each involved party’s insurance company will conduct their own investigation into the accident. They will review the evidence, interview parties involved, and come to a conclusion about who was at fault.

In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, the steps you take can significantly impact your potential injury claim or lawsuit. Here are a few things you should avoid doing:

First, don’t leave the scene. It’s critical to stay put until help arrives. Leaving the scene of an accident, especially if someone was injured, can result in serious legal consequences.

Second, don’t neglect to call the police. A police report can provide an impartial record of what happened, which may prove beneficial when filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit. It’s important to ensure that all facts are reported accurately.

Next, don’t forget to seek immediate medical attention, even if you think you’re uninjured. Some injuries might not show symptoms right away, and delaying medical care could harm your health and affect your potential injury claim.

Avoid apologizing or admitting fault at the accident scene. It’s natural to want to apologize, even if you’re not at fault, but this could be misconstrued as an admission of liability which wouldn’t help with your injury lawsuit.

Don’t neglect to gather evidence. If you’re capable, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage. Also, try to collect contact information from any witnesses.

Lastly, refrain from accepting the first offer from an insurance company without consulting our personal injury lawyers. Insurers often aim to settle cases quickly and for less than what you may be entitled to receive. Our experienced attorneys can provide guidance and help negotiate a fair settlement.

Remember, every accident is unique, so it’s important to seek personalized legal advice that addresses your specific situation.