Fullerton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

A motorcycle is a popular mode of transportation, giving riders a sense of freedom and excitement on the road. Whether it is used for commuting or leisure, it provides better fuel efficiency and maneuverability compared to most cars, convincing individuals to use this as their vehicle of choice. However, they do come with unique risks.

Unlike cars, motorcycles do not have as much protection in the event of an accident. This, in turn, can lead to serious or fatal injuries. In addition, motorcycles often go unnoticed due to their small size, increasing the potential for collisions. Injured victims are entitled to pursue legal action against the liable party to recover damages.

At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our Fullerton personal injury lawyers will guide you every step of the way to make sure you get full and fair compensation for the losses you incurred. With over 20 years of experience in the legal field and over $1.7 billion in settlements recovered on behalf of our clients, we are confident that we will help you return to your everyday life as quickly as possible.

To schedule a FREE consultation, you can reach out to us by calling (213) 927-3700 or visiting our quick online contact form page to submit your request.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can be caused by several factors. Let’s take a look at each one.

Speeding

Motorcyclists who travel at high speeds will have a difficult time safely navigating their way in and out of traffic. Doing this could:

• Reduce reaction time
• Create longer stopping distances
• Amplify the intensity of a collision

The faster a motorcyclist travels, the more severe the accident could be, resulting in serious or fatal injuries.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting is when a motorcycle rides between two lanes of slow-moving traffic. Although it is allowed in California (CVC 21658.1), it can be dangerous to perform and may lead to accidents. One of the primary risks associated with this action is the reduced amount of space available for a motorcyclist to maneuver in. Drivers do not typically expect riders to be in between the gaps, and will make lane changes without checking their blind spots. This can be dangerous to perform, especially if a motorcycle happens to be nearby. 

Road Hazards

Road hazards, like potholes and debris, can trigger a motorcyclist to lose control of their bike. Unlike cars, motorcycles have less stability and are more affected by uneven or slippery surfaces. Encountering such obstacles can throw them off balance, and ultimately lead to a collision.

What Is the Most Common Injury in a Motorcycle Crash?

The most common injury in a motorcycle crash is typically in the lower extremity, followed by upper extremity. Older riders were more prone to thoracic injuries, specifically rib fractures. Younger riders, on the other hand, commonly sustained spinal injuries. These types of bodily harm often require extensive post-injury treatment.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, you should consider the following steps to protect your health and better your likelihood of developing a well-constructed claim.

Contact Local Authorities

If any parties involved in the collision sustained injuries or damages, you should contact local authorities. Police will arrive at the accident scene and create a written report. Paramedics will also show up to provide immediate medical treatment to the affected parties.

Exchange Information

Be sure to exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with everyone involved in the motorcycle accident.

Seek Medical Attention

You should seek medical attention soon after the incident. Even if you do not think you sustained serious bodily harm, you should still get yourself checked just to be on the safe side.

Gather Evidence

Collect as much evidence as you can to support your claim, like:

• Photos of your injury, damages, and the accident scene
• CCTV footage
• Witness statements
• A copy of the police report and your medical records

Search for a Fullerton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

A motorcycle accident lawyer plays a significant role in defending victims by navigating them through the legal system to ensure they acquire the justice and compensation they deserve. 

Below are some benefits that pertain to their services:

• Assess the evidence provided
• Determine liability
• Help develop a strong personal injury claim
• Negotiate with the insurance company
• Represent you in court if your case heads to trial
• Get you maximum compensation to cover your damages

Seeking assistance from the right legal representative can make a substantial difference with the outcome of your case, and may give you the time you need to focus on your recovery with a peace of mind.

West Coast Trial Lawyers Is Here to Help

If you found yourself in a motorcycle accident, you can use our personal injury settlement calculator to get an estimate of what you could be entitled to. You can also get in touch with West Coast Trial Lawyers to get the guidance and support you need to successfully settle your case.

To schedule a FREE consultation, you can reach out to us by calling (213) 927-3700 or completing our easy online contact form.