California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in California

Motorcycle accidents can occur in an instant. What distinguishes them is that motorcycles are small vehicles, and riders lack the protection offered by enclosed vehicles.

Many motorcycle accidents are the result of:

• Frontal Crashes. These collisions, also called head-on collisions, often result in severe injuries due to the weight differential between motorcycles and passenger vehicles. Passenger cars typically weigh four times more than motorcycles and deliver much more force on impact.
• Vehicle Left Turns. Motorcycles are smaller than cars, meaning drivers sometimes do not see them when making left turns. Motorcyclists may be held partially liable if they were speeding, running a red light, riding in the wrong lane, or violating other traffic laws.
• Lane Splitting. Lane splitting involves driving between two lanes of traffic traveling in the same direction. It's legal in California to reduce traffic but can be dangerous and lead to accidents.
• Blind Spots. Due to their compact size, motorcycles can be missed if they slip into a larger vehicle's blind spot, commonly causing crashes during lane changes.
• Rear-End Collisions. These incidents occur when a driver fails to stop before colliding with the vehicle in front. Motorcyclists can be seriously injured more easily in these situations than in accidents involving enclosed vehicles. 
• Road Conditions. Hazardous road conditions, like potholes and uneven lanes, are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists.

Aside from these common causes, environmental factors such as weather conditions can also contribute to motorcycle accidents. Rain, fog, and wet roads can reduce visibility and traction, making it harder for motorcyclists to maneuver safely. Drivers and motorcyclists alike should exercise increased caution during adverse weather conditions to minimize the risk of accidents. Furthermore, the lack of adequate lighting or signage at intersections and roadways can also increase the likelihood of accidents. Poorly lit roads or malfunctioning traffic signals can lead to hazardous situations, particularly for motorcyclists who rely heavily on visibility for safe travel. It’s crucial for local authorities to maintain road infrastructure properly to ensure the safety of all road users.

If your accident resulted from someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Negligence can include running red lights, texting while driving, intoxication, and failing to obey traffic rules. If you are unsure whether you have a personal injury claim after a motorcycle collision, contact Carpenter & Zuckerman. Our California motorcycle accident attorneys can assess your circumstances and walk you through your legal options. 

Documenting Your California Motorcycle Accident for Claims

Documenting your motorcycle accident is crucial. It strengthens your personal injury claim and protects you if the other driver or their insurance tries to place liability on you.

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you should:

• Call 9-1-1. Reporting an accident is mandatory if anyone was injured. If you do not need to go to the hospital, wait with your vehicle until the police arrive. They will create an official accident report. Request a copy of this report.
• Do Not Admit Fault. Limit unnecessary conversation with other parties, as anything you say could be distorted and used against you. Avoid saying even seemingly harmless things like “I’m sorry” or “I think I’m okay.” 
• Photograph As Much As Possible. Using your smartphone, take photos of your injuries, vehicle damage, weather conditions, road hazards, and other factors. 
• Obtain Contact Information. Gather names, phone numbers, addresses, insurance info, and licenses from everyone involved. If there were witnesses, get their contact info too. 
• Seek a Medical Evaluation. See a doctor as soon as possible. Explain that you were in a motorcycle collision and request a full evaluation, even if you feel uninjured. Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent. Request a copy of the doctor’s findings and follow their treatment advice. 
• Get Legal Advice. Our California motorcycle accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and options for recovering compensation. 

In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, securing proper documentation can significantly influence the outcome of your claim. It's also advisable to maintain a journal of your recovery process. Record daily notes about how your injuries affect your routine, your pain levels, and any treatments you receive. This can provide a detailed account of your recuperation and help in substantiating the non-economic damages of your claim.

Remember, safeguarding your legal rights begins at the scene of the accident. Preserve evidence until it's given to your attorney, and be mindful of statutes of limitation, as these timelines dictate how long you have to pursue legal action. Being proactive immediately after an accident can help secure your right to compensation.

Understanding California Motorcycle Laws & Safety

California is unique in its approach to regulating motorcycle use, offering both freedoms and responsibilities to its riders. One notable example is lane splitting, which is legal under California Vehicle Code. This allows motorcyclists to ride between rows of stopped or moving cars. While this can help reduce traffic congestion and is often a courtesy extended to motorcyclists, it requires significant skill and attention to execute safely.

Additionally, wearing a helmet is mandatory for motorcyclists and their passengers in California, as per state law. These regulations are designed to enhance rider safety, but they also impact how compensation claims are assessed in the event of an accident. Understanding and adhering to these laws is crucial for both safety and legal compliance, which can influence the outcome of any personal injury claim following a motorcycle incident. Consulting a motorcycle accident attorney in California can help clarify your rights and obligations under these laws.