Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

google reviews
Call Today for a Free Consultation
1 (800) 208-3538

Top California Motorcycle Accident Attorney

It is no secret that those involved in a motorcycle accident have a high incidence of being injured. Motorcycles lack the standard auto constraints such as airbags and seatbelts, so people riders involved in even minor collisions can have catastrophic injuries. According to a sobering statistic from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), deaths due to motorcycle accidents in 2014 resulted with 27 times more frequency than other vehicle fatalities. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important that you call a personal injury lawyer right away to speak to a professional who specifically understands motorcycle accident laws in California. Here at Johnson Attorneys Group, we are experienced in handling motorcycle accident cases.

 

We are committed to protecting your rights and recouping your losses so that you or the person you love can focus on recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Free Confidential Consultation

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

By submitting your contact information, you agree that we may contact you by telephone (including text) and email in accordance with our Terms and Privacy Policy

Our Process

Call us for a FREE Initial Consultation

1

We get to WORK on your case, you focus on RECOVERY.

2

Our team will FIGHT to get you the settlement you deserve.

3

What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident

Step 1
Report the Motorcycle Accident to your Insurance Company
Step 2
Do Not Talk to Other Insurance Companies or Sign Anything
Step 3
Photograph or Inspect Vehicle Before Repairs or Demolition
Step 4
Make Sure Your Police Report is Filed
Step 5
See a Doctor as Soon as Possible
Step 6
Retain a Personal Injury Lawyer at Johnson Attorneys Group
$
0
No matter how difficult your situation, we will fight for you
If we don't win,
you're case is free
Free Case Review

What Our Clients Say

Compensation You May Be Entitled to if You Were Injured in a Motorcycle Accident and Hired an Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Compensation

If you were injured in a car crash that was due to another person’s negligence, California law allows the injured party to seek compensation. This compensation may include the following:

Medical treatment

Includes hospital visits, emergency room treatment

Doctor’s treatment

In or out of the hospital

Pain and Suffering

This is compensation for the physical and/or mental pain and suffering that resulted from the accident caused by another

Physical Damage

If your car was damaged or destroyed, you may be entitled to partial or full value of the vehicle

Lost Wages and Lost Future Earnings

If you are unable to work, you may be entitled to monetary compensation for the money you would have earned as well as projected future earnings

Do You Have an Injury Claim?

Types of Personal Injury Cases We Handle

If you've suffered a serious injury in an accident due to the negligence of another individual, or if you've lost a loved one in an accident, Johnson Attorneys Group may be able to pursue a personal injury claim or wrongful death claim against that person. We are committed to protecting your rights in California and getting the best outcome.

Common accidents that lead to personal injury claims include motorcycle accidents, car accidents, dog bites, pedestrian accidents, wrongful death and slip and fall injuries. Our team of experienced legal advocates is committed to offering you a personalized approach to your case and needs so that you can receive the best resolution.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

  • Driver error: Statistically speaking, the most frequent motorcycle accident happens as a result of vehicles turning left in front of bikes. Other driver-error-related accidents include, but are not limited to, vehicles hitting bikes while switching lanes or at stop lights, and blind spots plague vehicle drivers who are not trained to see motorcycles on the road.
  • Faulty Equipment: Though less common, accidents can happen as a result of safety failures or general vehicle malfunctions. A California personal injury lawyer may seek compensation if essential motorcycle safety functions fail such as the brakes or tires.
  • Poor Road Conditions: Road design and road condition often impact motorcycles long before other vehicles. As such, local government officials are required to post signs making motorists aware of potential road conditions that could become hazardous. Roads that are poorly lit, or improperly maintained raise the risks of a motorcycle accident. In the event of a motorcycle accident as a result of poor road conditions, it is paramount that a motorcycle accident lawyer gets involved with the case as quickly as possible.

Motorcycle Accident Liability

Proving liability for a motorcycle accident depends on whether the other party’s negligent actions were the cause of the crash. There must be evidence that demonstrates that the crash would not have occurred had the other driver not been present on the road. To prove negligence, four elements must have occurred:

 

  • Duty–meaning the driver at fault had a duty to ensure the safety of fellow drivers sharing the road.
  • Breach of duty–meaning the driver at fault failed to uphold his or her duty to ensure the safety of fellow drivers sharing the
  • Causation–meaning the accident involving the motorcycle was caused directly by the at-fault driver’s
  • Damages–meaning the motorcyclist suffered damages as a result of the accident. These damages can include personal or property damage or death. A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to assess whether the four elements exist and negligence can be

Most Dangerous Intersections in California for Motorcyclists

In the U.S., California has the highest number of registered motorcycles, making it an excellent place for enthusiasts to find community. However, that also means the Golden State has its share of accidents.

 

While a motorcycle offers a unique and freeing experience for those who love the open road, it doesn’t provide the same protection as a car. As a result, the fatality rate for motorcyclists is 28 times that of vehicle passengers. It’s a sobering statistic, but you can keep yourself from becoming part of it by learning about the dangers posed by California roadways.

 

The Most Dangerous Intersections

 

For motorcyclists, the number one most dangerous place is an intersection. Cars may run lights, make illegal turns or crowd riders out of impatience. There are also twice as many cars to keep track of, making it easier to miss vital warning signs.

 

Of course, some cross streets are more dangerous than others. Several factors impact how hazardous an intersection is:

 

  • Visibility
  • Traffic density
  • Road conditions

 

The following are two of the most dangerous intersections for motorcyclists from a collision standpoint. Avoid them if you can.

 

Sierra Highway and Pearblossom Highway

 

Located in Palmdale, these cross streets have a high fatality record. Interestingly, the neighborhood also has one of the highest rates of car ownership in the country.

 

Residents of this neighborhood are also likely to commute to work by car. Perhaps the high number of vehicles and drivers contributes to the likelihood of a collision.

 

Lakewood Boulevard and Firestone Boulevard

 

Fortunately, this Downey intersection doesn’t have as many fatalities; however, it does have the highest number of collisions. While the average has trended down over the years, it has exceeded the state average several times:

 

  • In 2006
  • In 2014
  • In 2016

 

According to the data, light conditions may play a role in the frequency of accidents at these cross streets. However, driving under the influence is also significant, and research indicates that it’s a top contributor to motorcycle accidents.

 

Read More

California Motorcycle Laws

What If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet During My Motorcycle Accident?

What a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Do for You

  • Gather evidence: A personal injury lawyer knows what evidence to gather, whether in the form of accident scene photos, surveillance videos, or police reports that will create clarity and work in your favor. The right motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to help you gather evidence from necessary
  • Interview witnesses: Personal testimony can be hugely beneficial in filing a lawsuit. Motorcycle accident lawyers are specifically skilled at interviewing eyewitnesses and documenting first-hand accounts to prove your
  • Review medical records: If you or your loved one was injured as a result of the motorcycle accident, a trained motorcycle accident lawyer can review pertinent medical records with your permission to prove
  • Handle the insurance company: A motorcycle accident lawyer can handle all insurance matters on your
  • Recover compensation: Johnson Attorneys Group motorcycle injury lawyers possess a deep knowledge of motorcycle law and know how to fight for your rights. Our goal is fighting for your rights so you can focus on your

 

You may be compensated for:

 

  • Damage to property (including repairing or replacing the bike)
  • Lost wages and future income
  • Pain and suffering/emotional distress
  • Past, present, or future medical bills
  • Rehabilitation and/or therapy costs
  • Rental charges
  • Various accident-related costs and out-of-pocket expenses

Do I need a motorcycle license to drive a motorcycle in California?

To operate a motorcycle in California, you must have a motorcycle permit. To operate any two-wheeled motorcycle, you’ll need a Class M1 license.

What kinds of motorcycle insurance is available in California?

All motorcyclists in California are required to have liability insurance coverage, but in addition to this basic coverage, it’s wise to obtain additional forms of coverage. Below are the types of motorcycle insurance available in California: Liability insurance Comprehensive and collision coverage

 

  • Total loss coverage
  • Optional equipment coverage
  • Trip interruption coverage
  • Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage
  • Towing and labor coverage
  • Guest passenger liability

What kind of insurance is required for a motorcycle?

Motorcycle insurance is required in California. The state mandates that you purchase a minimum amount of liability insurance for your motorcycle. The minimum levels of liability insurance coverage include:

 

  • $15,000 Bodily Injury Liability coverage for injuries to one person in an accident
  • $30,000 Bodily Injury Liability coverage for total injuries in an accident
  • $5,000 Property Damage Liability coverage

Does California have a helmet law?

Yes, California law requires motorcycle drivers and passengers to wear a helmet at all times while operating a motorcycle in the state. A driver wearing a helmet may still be ticketed if his or her passenger is not wearing a helmet. To comply with federal laws, helmets must have:

 

  • A thick inner liner
  • Riveted chin straps attached to the shell of the helmet
  • Weigh at least three pounds
  • Must not protrude more than two-tenths of an inch from the shell of the helmet

 

While face and eye protection are recommended, they are not mandatory.

Do you have to wear protective clothing on a motorcycle?

No, motorcyclists are not required to wear protective clothing under California law. However, the proper clothing can protect you from injury in the event of an accident. Examples of protective clothing, include:

 

  • A snug-fit long-sleeve jacket
  • Long, thick pants
  • Over-the-ankle boots or closed-toe shoes that are high and sturdy enough to cover and support your ankles
  • Gloves made of leather or other durable materials

What should I do if I'm involved in a motorcycle accident?

While riding your motorcycle along the Pacific Coast Highway or up and down the rolling hills of San Francisco is usually an enjoyable experience, each trip in California carries the risk of being involved in a crash. However, knowing what steps to take after an accident can reduce feelings of fear and anxiety, allowing you to remain calm until help arrives.

 

Assess Your Injuries

 

Directly after an accident, try to assess whether you have any serious injuries. Some types of trauma tend to share commonalities among motorcycle riders, including:

 

  • Head injuries
  • Neck injuries
  • Skin trauma from contact with pavement
  • Broken bones due to ejection during the crash.

 

Try to move to a safe area after the crash if possible, but leave your bike where it came to rest so law enforcement and insurance adjusters can examine its location in relation to how the accident happened.

 

Gather Insurance Information

 

Once it is safe to do so, gather your driver’s license and insurance information for the authorities. Many insurance companies now offer smartphone apps that allow you to access your policy number, your coverage, emergency towing assistance and information about your motorcycle. You can even start a claim using this type of app, but you may want to wait for the police to arrive before you take this step.

 

Gather All Evidence

 

You can help your insurance provider by gathering as much evidence as you can about the crash on your own. Avoid entering areas of heavy traffic if possible and gather evidence in several ways, including:

 

  • Taking photos
  • Talking to witnesses
  •  Identifying skid marks and other signs of the accident

 

While asking witnesses about what they saw may assist you in the near future, avoid discussing details of the accident that may inadvertently cause you to admit fault, even if your behavior might have contributed to the wreck.

 

Experiencing a motorcycle accident in California is usually a stressful event, especially when it results in injury and property damage. Knowing how to proceed in the aftermath can protect you and your interests in the following months and avoid any actions that may count against you.

What should I do if the insurance company offers me a settlement?

After an accident, insurance companies don’t waste any time trying to contact you. It is important to understand that carriers consider their interests, even though they may sound empathetic to your situation. The desire to wrap up a settlement claim can leave accident victims without the means to get proper medical care or adequate compensation for losses suffered. You need to talk with an attorney before discussing a settlement with an insurer. JAG is ready to consult with you about your accident and let you know if you have a pursuable case for damages.

 

While it is tempting to take a quick settlement, most initial offers are too low. Attorneys understand how insurance companies work and will protect your rights to fair compensation. The seriousness of your harm is a critical factor. If you have debilitating or permanent injuries, your damages could be substantial. If you cannot return to work or engage in previous life activities as you once did, future losses need to be considered when calculating a damage recovery. These are the types of damages in a personal injury claim:

 

  • Medical expenses (past and future)
  • Lost wages and benefits (past and future)
  • Personal assistance or nursing care
  • Rehabilitative care
  • Pain and suffering
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

 

JAG will assess the elements of your claim to determine what damages apply based on the circumstances.

 

The stakes are high if you try to deal directly with an insurance company. If you say the wrong thing, insurance representatives won’t hesitate to use your words against you. You may lose your chance to receive compensation. Don’t take an unnecessary risk by going it alone. Despite an insurance company’s actions, you are under no pressure to settle. Consulting with a personal injury attorney could bring the resolution you need. You have greater peace of mind knowing that your claim is handled personally and capably by a firm you can trust.

Should I hire an attorney after a motorcycle accident?

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer at Johnson Attorneys Group to Discuss Your California Motorcycle Accident Case Today

 

If you or someone you love has been involved in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact one of our California motorcycle accident lawyers. Someone from our office specifically competent in California motorcycle law is ready and able to review the details of your case for you to see if we can help. Our goal is to allow you to focus on recovery while we fight for what was lost. We have won thousands of cases and have the necessary resources to help you reach the highest recovery possible. Call today!

Contact a California Motorcycle Accident Attorney –
No Fees Unless We Win or Settle Your Case

It is extremely important to contact a qualified and experienced attorney at the earliest possible time in order to preserve your rights to compensation. Our California motorcycle accident lawyers have recovered more than $98.4 million for our clients over the past several years alone.

Connect with us
Copyright © 2023, Johnson Attorneys
Group. All rights reserved.
SEO and Webdesign by Clixsy
CONVENIENT OFFICES 100 Bayview Circle
Suite 5100
Newport Beach, CA 92660