Left-Hand Turn California Motorcycle Accidents

Determining Liability in Left-Hand Turn Motorcycle Accidents

Left-hand turn accidents are one of the most common types of motorcycle accidents. These accidents are caused by a driver failing to notice a motorcycle because of its small size, thus resulting in a collision. This normally happens on intersections when the driver is waiting to turn left and does not see the oncoming motorcycle.

Injuries

There are a variety of injuries that a motorcyclist may suffer from a left-hand turn accident. These include:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI),
• Neck injury,
• Brain injury,
• Road rash,
• Internal bleeding,
• Bruises,
• Cuts,
• Broken bones,
• Facial injuries, and
• Nerve damage.

Depending on the seriousness of the accident, the motorcyclist may face temporary or permanent paralysis.

Determining Who Is At-Fault

There are several factors that come into play when determining who is at-fault for a left-hand turn accident. Generally, it would be the individual who is turning that is at-fault for the collision. They are responsible for making sure that it is safe enough to change to the left. The driver is expected to yield to oncoming traffic and should only be permitted to move when the area is clear for them to do so.

In some cases, the non-turning rider may be at-fault. An example could be the rider exceeding the speed limit, thus resulting in a powerful impact with the left-turning car. However, it may be difficult to prove this, which is why an investigation must take place to review how the road conditions were prior to the accident.

Overall, it is important for both parties involved to have evidence and relevant information on-hand to back themselves up after a left-hand turn accident.

What to Do After the Accident

After you get into a left-hand turn motorcycle accident, you should:

• Call 911. The police will arrive and create an official police report of the incident. You may use this report as part of your evidence for when you file a claim with your insurance company.
• Get information on the other party involved. Speak to the driver involved in the collision. You must get their:
  • Name,
  • Phone number,
  • Insurance information, and
  • License plate number.

If any bystanders are willing to participate in your case, you should get their name(s) and phone number(s). Their perspective on the accident can make your claim stronger.

• Collect Evidence. Take pictures of injuries, damages, and the location of the accident.
• Seek medical assistance. Your health is very important. Regardless of whether your injury is moderate or severe, it is suggested to seek medical attention from a physician. Additionally, getting medical documents from your doctor visit will be an essential piece of evidence to strengthen your case.
• Reach out to a personal injury attorney.  It is highly recommended to hire an attorney to guide you through the process of building your insurance claim. If a lawsuit is filed, they may represent you in court.

Available Damages

Accidents happen. If you were injured as a result of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Below is a brief explanation of damages. Damages are a type of monetary award that is determined by a court of law to help compensate an aggrieved individual for any losses or injuries sustained as a result of someone’s negligence.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are intended to compensate a plaintiff for losses that a dollar amount can readily be attached to. Economic damages are calculated by determining the amount of out-of-pocket losses an aggrieved individual has or will expect to incur as a result of their injuries.

A few examples of economic losses include:

• Loss of Earning Capacity
• Medical Bills
• Lost Wages

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are essentially intended to cover losses that are thought of as subjective and will not necessarily cover out-of-pocket losses. Non-economic damages may include compensation for:

• Emotional Distress
• Pain and Suffering
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life

Punitive Damages

The third type of damages a California court may award are known as punitive damages. Punitive damages are intended as punishment and are only awarded when a defendant’s behavior is especially harmful. Punitive damages are relatively rare and in fact were only incorporated in 5 percent of all verdicts.

Furthermore, there is no real set standard for calculating and awarding punitive damages. Punitive damages are awarded at the court’s discretion and will vary depending on the specific circumstances of a case.

West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Here to Help

If you have suffered injuries due to a motorcycle accident, then you have the authority to hold the guilty party responsible. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our motorcycle accident attorneys are readily available to help you get the justice you deserve. We will help you recover your financial compensation for any losses you may have suffered, which include medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and pain and suffering from your injury. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation with the attorneys at our firm. No fees are required to be paid until we win your case. Reach out to our legal team 24/7 by calling us at (213) 927-3700 or emailing [email protected].