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Ariel Law Group Will Fight ForYour Rights In Motorcycle Accident Cases

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Serving California

Driving a motorcycle is an economical way to get to work and an enjoyable way to soak in California weather and scenery, but this activity proved deadly for almost 500 people in 2019. (Nationwide, our state is second only to Florida in motorcycle fatalities). Recent statistics show that the number of motorcycle fatalities per mile traveled was nearly 27 times the number of car fatalities per mile traveled (IIHS, 2018). If you find yourself in a motorcycle accident, your best course of action is to hire an experienced motorcycle accident attorney to make sure you the help you need.

Whereas car accidents lead to injury or death about 20% of the time, 80% of motorcycle crashes result in injury or death (NHTSA, 2003).

Statistically, if you are injured in a motorcycle crash, the stakes are high for you regardless of who caused the accident. Even if you hobble away with your life, you may have serious injuries that require costly medical care and impact your ability to work.

The personal injury lawyers at Ariel Law Group are the formidable advocates you want fighting for you after a motorcycle accident.

*Unless otherwise noted, the statistics used were compiled here from various sources

Do I need to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?

If you’ve sustained an injury due to a motorcycle accident, the short answer is yes. In these cases, it’s best to begin by consulting with a motorcycle accident lawyer. 

Due to shock and other things that may be on your mind in the immediate aftermath of a motorcycle accident, injuries aren’t always immediately noticeable. They make take time to appear and when they do, they may cause debilitating pain. This is why it’s crucial to speak with a motorcycle accident lawyer about your options. 

If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident that has affected your ability to work, required emergency medical care, or required hospitalization, it’s time to speak to a California motorcycle accident lawyer.

What should I do if I am in a motorcycle accident?

If you are in a motorcycle accident, here is what you should do.

  • If you can, call 911 or ask a witness to do it for you.
  • Seek immediate medical attention.
  • Get contact information about anyone involved in the accident including the name, license plate, and insurance information of the driver(s) involved.
  • Take photos of the vehicles, your injuries, and the injuries of others involved. Take photos of the scene as well, including traffic signals and street signs.
  • Do not sign any documents or give any statements to any insurance representative without first speaking to a motorcycle accident lawyer.
  • Do not apologize. This can be used to prove that you were at fault, even if you were not.
  • Do not admit fault.
  • If questioned by a police officer about what happened, do not guess. Only tell the officer what you know happened for certain.
  • Keep all accident-related medical bills stored together in a secure place. These will be provided to your lawyer to help determine the financial compensation you are entitled to.
  • Contact and hire an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. 

Sticking to this checklist in the event of a motorcycle accident will help you ensure that your rights will be protected and you’ll get the help you need.

Will I be able to get compensation even if I am partly to blame for the accident?

Yes. California is a comparative negligence state, which means that any person involved in an accident might be responsible for a percentage of the blame.

As your motorcycle accident lawyer, part of our job is to prove that your negligence was as small as possible to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. The comparative negligence principle applies to most personal injury cases in California.

I wasn’t wearing a helmet. Can I file a claim?

Yes. Just keep in mind that because of comparative negligence, you will be held partially responsible for your injuries due to not wearing a helmet. According to California law, all motorcycle riders must wear a helmet. If you failed to wear one when your accident occurred, this will be used to minimize your claim.

However, you should still consult with an experienced California motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. At Ariel Law Group, we offer free consultations to help you understand what your options are for protecting your rights.

What types of compensation may I be entitled to?

  • Past and future medical bills related to injuries sustained in the motorcycle accident, including hospital bills, ambulance bills, physical therapy, consultations with specialists, in-home care services, and psychiatric counseling
  • Past and future lost wages resulting from the accident.
  • Property damage. In the case of a motorcycle accident, this refers to compensation for the cost of damage to your motorcycle and any other property.
  • Pain and suffering resulting from physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, and loss of consortium. 
  • Punitive damages if the accident was the result of malicious or willful actions.

What if I am undocumented and/or don’t speak English? Will that affect my motorcycle accident claim?

No. According to California law, a person’s immigration status cannot be used against them in civil cases. This includes motorcycle accident lawsuits.

In addition to this, our attorneys and staff are bilingual in English and Spanish so you can feel comfortable that we will understand the intricacies of your case and keep you informed about what is happening throughout the process.

I lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident. What are my options?

Yes. In this situation, you will be able to file a claim as the next of kin. You may file a wrongful death claim against the parties responsible for the accident that caused your loved one’s death.

We know that when you lose a loved one, money will not make up for your loss. However, it’s important to hold those responsible accountable. In many cases of wrongful death, the person who has died is their family’s provider, and their death can often leave their family with an economic burden. Getting the restitution your family deserves can help ease this burden during a time of emotional turmoil.

MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Motorcycling in California: An Enjoyable Pursuit or Hazard?

In California, motorcycling presents a dichotomy of being both an enjoyable pursuit and a potential hazard. The appeal of the open road on two wheels is undeniable, as it offers riders freedom and exhilaration. But with that comes risks; motorcycle accidents are more frequent than car collisions due to their inherent instability and exposure to other vehicles. Motorcyclists are significantly disadvantaged in safety equipment compared to car drivers; beyond helmets, they need more protection from the elements or other traffic on the roads.

What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident in California?

Following a collision involving a motorized vehicle accident in California, taking specific steps to protect legal rights and ensure safety is essential. The initial step is to stay at the accident site and exchange contact information with any drivers or passengers involved. Report the incident; this will enable police officers to investigate and document any potential violations of traffic laws that may have caused or contributed to the accident. Obtain medical attention immediately following the crash, even if symptoms do not appear immediately; some injuries might become more apparent over time. It is also recommended that persons involved in an accident photograph both automobiles as well as any other property damage that may have happened during the collision.

The 7 Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents and How to Avoid Them?

Motorized vehicle collisions can be devastating, and understanding the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is essential for prevention. Motorcycle accidents are no exception, as riders face more significant risks due to their limited protection. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified seven key causes of motorcycle accidents. These include rider behavior, vehicle factors, environmental factors, alcohol/drug use, pre-existing medical conditions, roadway design, construction errors, and improper licensing or registration issues.

Learn more about how Ariel Law Group can help you get the compensation you deserve.

With 30 years of experience, we have won millions of dollars in compensation to help alleviate the staggering physical, emotional, and financial toll that accidents take on our clients. Our track record of success indicates we know how to fight for our clients.

Our team has a proven 98% success rate and you will not pay any fees until we win your case. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Need help with any legal issues?

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Been in an accident and need an attorney? We want to talk to you! Our attorneys and staff speak English and Spanish for your convenience.

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888-888-2598

Los Angeles Area Office

760-760-1010

Desert Cities Office

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Desert Cities Office

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