Glendora Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

The city of Glendora enjoys 284 sunny days a year. It’s no wonder then why so many people love going out for a ride. Unfortunately, that does mean that motorcycle accidents in Glendora, CA, and throughout Los Angeles County are quite common. These accidents often lead to serious injuries or even wrongful death due to the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road. 

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, consulting an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer for accident injury cases can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, we’ve helped motorcycle accident victims recover compensation for over 20 years and covered everything from medical bills and lost wages, to pain and suffering and more. 

We have recovered over $1.7 billion of financial compensation to our clients and we will continue to do our duty to represent our clients and watch out for their best interests. Whether you have been involved in a catastrophic accident or a mild rear end accident, our team of motorcycle accident lawyers will be there every step of the way, 

To schedule your FREE consultation, call us at (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form. We are available 24/7 to answer your phone calls and form submissions.

Understanding Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes can result from various factors, including poor road conditions, distracted driving, speeding, alcohol impairment, and mechanical failures. And even though motorcycles only make up 3% of all registered vehicles, they account for 15% of all traffic fatalities according to the National Highway Safety Administration.

With such a high rate, understanding the common causes of these accidents is crucial for prevention. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of your legal rights regarding motorcycle accident claims to pursue a personal injury claim, especially when negligence is involved.

Poor Road Conditions

Inadequate lighting, potholes from rain storms and heavy semi truck trailers and debris are a frequent site on California roads and highways. These can all contribute to accidents and may hold local government entities accountable. Glendora is surrounded by the 210 fwy, 57 fwy, and the circuitous 39. 

Distracted Driving

Drivers using their phones, eating, or adjusting in-car controls may fail to notice motorcyclists on the road. In 2023 alone, distracted driving resulted in 3,275 lives. Having legal representation can be crucial in navigating the claims process with the other driver’s insurance company to ensure fair compensation for injuries and expenses.

Other Drivers’ Negligence

California Civil Code 17150 covers duty of care, where it explains the responsibility drivers have on the road. Negligence by other drivers is a significant factor in motorcycle accidents. Failing to yield, unsafe lane changes, and speeding contribute to numerous crashes.

Mechanical Failures

Though not as common with only 3% of motorcycle accidents resulting from mechanical failure, faulty brakes, tires, or other motorcycle components can lead to accidents, making manufacturers or maintenance providers liable.

Types of Injuries Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accident victims often suffer severe injuries due to the lack of protection compared to car accidents. Some common injuries include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Even with a helmet, motorcycle riders are at risk for traumatic brain injuries. Helmets reduce the severity but don’t completely prevent brain trauma—especially in high-speed crashes or direct head impacts. TBIs can range from concussions to severe brain swelling or hemorrhaging, leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, emotional instability, or even permanent neurological damage. The exposed and vulnerable nature of motorcyclists means that any accident can become a serious risk to brain health.

Broken Bones

Motorcycle accidents often involve high-impact forces and abrupt stops, which can result in multiple broken bones. Riders may instinctively put out their arms to break a fall, leading to fractured wrists, arms, or collarbones. Legs are also highly susceptible, especially if pinned between the bike and another vehicle. In more serious cases, complex fractures may require surgery, metal implants, or extensive physical therapy to recover.

Spinal Cord Damage

Spinal cord injuries are a grave risk for motorcyclists, particularly when thrown from the bike or struck at high speeds. Damage to the spine or surrounding nerves can lead to partial or full paralysis. Even less severe nerve damage can result in chronic pain, limited mobility, or numbness. These types of injuries can have lifelong consequences, drastically affecting a rider’s ability to work, drive, or engage in daily activities.

Road Rash

Road rash is a type of abrasion that occurs when a rider’s skin scrapes against the pavement during a crash. It may sound minor but can be extremely painful and lead to serious complications. In severe cases, road rash can remove multiple layers of skin, expose muscles or nerves, and become infected. It often requires skin grafts and extensive wound care. Even mild cases can result in scarring and long-term sensitivity.

Liability for Glendora Motorcycle Accidents

California is a comparative fault state, meaning that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation. A skilled personal injury lawyer can help assess your case and fight for a fair settlement. 

Liability for Glendora motorcycle accidents can be complex. In California, motorcyclists have the same rights as other drivers on the road, and they are entitled to compensation if they are injured in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence. To establish liability, the injured motorcyclist must prove that the other party breached their duty of care, resulting in the accident and subsequent injuries.

Damages You May Be Entitled To Recovering

Accident victims may recover damages for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. Let’s review each in more depth:

Medical Bills and Ongoing Medical Treatment

Motorcycle riders often suffer severe injuries in accidents, even when wearing protective gear. These injuries can lead to extensive emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and long-term rehabilitation. Riders may also require follow-up appointments, mobility aids, or mental health counseling. The cost of both immediate and ongoing medical treatment can quickly become overwhelming. Fortunately, victims may be entitled to recover compensation for all past, present, and future medical expenses related to the accident.

Lost Wages and Lost Income Due to Inability to Work

After a motorcycle accident, many riders are unable to return to work for weeks or months—if at all. Fractures, spinal injuries, or head trauma can prevent someone from performing their regular job duties or working altogether. If the rider was self-employed or relied on physical labor, their financial losses may be even greater. A legal claim can help victims recover lost wages during recovery and loss of future earning capacity if their injuries cause long-term or permanent work limitations.

Pain and Suffering

The physical and emotional toll of a motorcycle accident often goes beyond the visible injuries. Riders may endure chronic pain, emotional distress, anxiety, PTSD, and a diminished quality of life. They may no longer enjoy hobbies, riding, or daily activities due to their injuries. Pain and suffering damages seek to compensate victims for this non-economic impact—something particularly relevant in motorcycle crashes, where injuries are often catastrophic and life-altering.

Permanent Disability

Motorcycle accidents can result in permanent disabilities such as paralysis, amputations, nerve damage, or traumatic brain injuries. These life-changing outcomes may require home modifications, full-time care, assistive technology, and a complete reevaluation of career and lifestyle. Victims are entitled to recover compensation for the loss of independence, future medical care, and reduced life enjoyment that comes with a permanent disability.

Wrongful Death Claims for Families of Deceased Victims

In fatal motorcycle accidents, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim to seek justice and financial compensation. These claims can cover funeral and burial costs, medical bills incurred before death, lost financial support, and the emotional loss of companionship. Motorcycle riders face a higher risk of fatal injuries due to their exposure on the road, making wrongful death claims especially critical for families left behind.

Why You Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Whether dealing with insurance companies, proving negligence, or negotiating settlement offers, an attorney with extensive knowledge of local city laws and experience dealing with motorcycle accident cases can help you recover damages. A Glendora, CA motorcycle accident lawyer plays a crucial role in assisting clients in recovering damages, ensuring their legal rights are protected, and dealing with challenges from insurers. Their responsibilities may include:

Investigating the Accident Scene

• Visiting the scene (if possible) to observe road conditions, signage, skid marks, and visibility.
• Collecting evidence such as photos or videos from the crash site, surveillance footage, and debris patterns.
• Reviewing the police report for initial findings and eyewitness statements.
• Interviewing witnesses to clarify what they saw.
• Working with accident reconstruction experts, who can use physics and crash data to determine how the accident occurred.

This step is essential to understand how the crash happened and who was at fault.

Gathering Medical Records and Bills

Medical documentation is critical to proving the extent of the injuries and their impact on the victim’s life. A motorcycle lawyer:

• Requests medical records and hospital bills from all providers who treated the client.
• Ensures records are complete and up to date, including treatment notes, diagnoses, medications, and prognosis.
• Analyzes records to connect injuries directly to the accident (proving causation).
• Estimates future medical expenses, rehabilitation, or long-term care, if necessary.
• Documents pain and suffering by gathering information about how injuries have affected daily life and mental health.

Communicating with the Other Driver’s Insurance Company

Insurance companies are not on the victim’s side—they aim to minimize payouts. A lawyer will:

• Take over all communication with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to protect the client from saying something that could harm their claim.
• Submit a demand letter outlining the facts of the accident, liability, and a detailed list of damages.
• Respond to insurance adjuster inquiries and manage negotiations on the client’s behalf.
• Ensure deadlines and procedures are followed to keep the claim moving forward.

This shields the injured party from pressure or manipulation by insurers looking to settle quickly for less.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies for a Fair Settlement

Finally, the lawyer works to secure the maximum possible compensation. They:

• Review all damages—medical bills, lost wages, future expenses, pain and suffering, and property damage.
• Negotiate aggressively, using evidence and legal arguments to push for a full and fair settlement.
• Counter lowball offers and explain why they don’t reflect the true cost of the injury.
• Prepare for trial if needed, which often prompts insurers to offer more favorable settlements.

An experienced lawyer knows the tactics insurers use and how to fight back to ensure justice for the injured rider.

The Statute of Limitations on a Motorcycle Accident in California

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. This means that if you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you have two years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this timeframe, you may be barred from recovering compensation for your injuries.

However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, if the accident involved a government entity, the statute of limitations may be shorter, typically six months. Additionally, if the accident resulted in the death of a loved one, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death lawsuit may be different.

Consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after an accident to ensure that you do not miss the deadline for filing a lawsuit.

How to Choose the Best Glendora Motorcycle Accident Attorney

When selecting a Glendora motorcycle accident lawyer, consider the following:

Experience

Look for a lawyer who has handled numerous motorcycle accident cases and understands the unique challenges riders face—like bias against motorcyclists, complex liability issues, and insurance tactics. A seasoned attorney with a successful track record can anticipate obstacles, build a strong case, and fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to ask how many motorcycle cases they’ve taken to trial or settled out of court.

Reputation

A lawyer’s reputation often speaks louder than any marketing slogan. Take time to research what past clients have to say. Check platforms like Yelp, Google, and Facebook for real-world reviews and testimonials. Look for patterns in feedback—do clients mention strong communication, fair treatment, and solid results? A reputable attorney will have consistent positive reviews and be known in their community for handling motorcycle accident cases with integrity and commitment.

Legal Rights Knowledge

Motorcycle laws in California are specific and sometimes complicated. You want a lawyer who not only understands general personal injury law but is also up-to-date with the latest legal developments that affect motorcycle riders—such as lane-splitting laws, helmet regulations, and liability rules. An attorney with deep knowledge of California traffic and personal injury law can more effectively protect your rights.

Availability

You’re already dealing with pain, stress, and uncertainty—your attorney should help relieve that burden, not add to it. Choose a law firm where you can get answers quickly and feel heard every step of the way. From the receptionist to the lead attorney, the entire team should be responsive, respectful, and genuinely interested in your case. Avoid lawyers who seem too busy or treat your accident like just another file on their desk. Personalized attention can make a world of difference in your experience—and your outcome.

Schedule Your FREE Consultation with West Coast Trial Lawyers Today

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. At West Coast Trial Lawyers, our knowledgeable personal injury attorneys are readily available to assist you with motorcycle accidents in Glendora. We will evaluate the information presented, identify the at fault party, and pursue legal action to get you a fair settlement.

To schedule your FREE consultation, call us at (213) 927-3700 or complete this easy online contact form. We are available 24/7 to answer your phone calls and form submissions. 

Frequently Asked Questions about Motorcycle Accidents in California

What Should I Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident in California?

First, check yourself and others for injuries and call 911. If it’s safe, move your motorcycle off the road to prevent further accidents. Exchange information with the other party involved, including names, contact details, and insurance information. Document the scene with photos, note down any witnesses, and avoid admitting fault at the scene. You may also want to report the accident to the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) if there are injuries or significant property damage.

Are Motorcycles Allowed to Split Lanes in California?

Yes, California is the only state that allows lane splitting. This means motorcyclists can ride between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. However, it’s crucial to do so safely and within the law. Lane splitting should only be done when traffic is moving at a slow speed, and motorcyclists should avoid speeding or weaving through traffic.

What Are My Legal Rights if I’m Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in California?

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you have the right to seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In California, motorcycle riders can pursue claims under personal injury law, which may involve negotiating with insurance companies or even pursuing legal action in court if necessary.

Is There a Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim After a Motorcycle Accident in California?

Yes, in California, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim for a motorcycle accident. If you don’t file within this timeframe, you may lose your right to pursue compensation. However, it’s always best to consult with an attorney soon after the accident to ensure that evidence is preserved and deadlines are met.

Can I Still Recover Damages if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet During the Accident?

While California law mandates that all motorcyclists wear a helmet, not wearing one doesn’t automatically prevent you from recovering damages. However, failing to wear a helmet may be considered as “contributory negligence,” which could reduce the amount of compensation you can receive. It’s important to discuss the specifics of your case with your attorney.