Motorcycle accidents can be life-changing, resulting in serious injuries and financial stress. It’s important to know your legal rights in California if you have been in a motorcycle crash. California law provides certain protections to motorcyclists. Knowing how to navigate the court system will help you get the compensation you deserve.
Motorcycle Accidents in California: Common Causes
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by driver negligence and unsafe road conditions. Some of the most common causes are:
- Distracted driving: When drivers are distracted by texting, talking on their phones, or other distractions. They may not notice motorcycles on the road.
- Speeding: Drivers who exceed the speed limit are more likely to cause an accident, especially if they do not anticipate a motorcycle’s speed.
- Accidents caused by left turns: Motorcyclists are often injured when drivers fail to yield the right of way and make a left turn in front of them.
- Lane splitting: It is legal in California but can be dangerous when other drivers don’t respect the space of motorcyclists.
- Driving under the Influence: Drunken or drug-impaired motorists pose a serious threat to motorcyclists, as well as other road users.
Understanding the cause of an accident is crucial for determining your liability and seeking compensation.
Legal Rights for Motorcycle Accident Victims of California
You have a legal right to compensation if you’re injured in a motorcycle crash caused by the negligence of another party.
- Medical Expenses: include emergency care, surgery, ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and assistive devices.
- Lost Wages: You can claim compensation for lost wages if your injury prevents you from working. If the injury is permanent, you may also be entitled to future earnings.
- Compensation for Pain and Suffering: You may be entitled to compensation if you suffer physical pain, emotional distress, and a reduced quality of living as a result of your injury.
- Property Damage: You can seek compensation for damage to your motorcycle, or any other property that was damaged by the accident.
Bottom Line!
California motorcycle accidents can be devastating, but knowing your rights will help you take the right steps to receive compensation. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, protect your rights, and get the compensation you deserve if you have been injured. Tenina Law is committed to protecting motorcyclists and providing legal representation.
This article was written by Alla Tenina. Alla is a top personal injury lawyer Sherman Oaks CA, and the founder of Tenina Law. She has experience in bankruptcies, real estate planning, and complex tax matters. The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date legal or other information. This website contains links to other third-party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser; the ABA and its members do not recommend or endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
