Corona Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Facing a motorcycle accident and the implications that follow, like injuries, vehicle damage, and legal action, can cause stress and frustration. It can be hard to know how to proceed and secure your desired compensation. A Corona motorcycle accident lawyer from The Law Offices of Christian J. Amendt can not only give you insight into the legal process but also offer your legal representation and advice throughout your personal injury case.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Understanding the cause of motorcycle accidents is crucial for several reasons. It can prevent future accidents, improve safety measures, and ensure justice in legal cases. Below are the key common causes of a motorcycle accident:
- Driver Negligence: Driver negligence is a leading cause of accidents. This can take the form of many actions and inaction, such as distracted driving, not checking blind spots, and being reckless in general.
- Lane-Related Issues: Drivers who do not check their blind spots or use turn signals are more likely to collide with motorcyclists. While lane splitting is legal in California, it can increase the risk of accidents if it is done improperly or aggressively.
- Speeding: Excessive speeds by both motorcyclists and other drivers can reduce reaction times and increase the severity of any crashes that result.
- Road Hazards: Potholes, gravel, wet roads, uneven pavement, and debris can be especially dangerous for motorcycles due to their smaller size and less stable nature.
- Impaired Driving: For both motorcyclists and other drivers, operating a vehicle under the influence can increase the likelihood of an accident. Similarly, drowsy driving can impair a driver’s judgment and reaction time.
- Weather Conditions: Harsh weather conditions, like rain, snow, or fog, can reduce visibility and road traction, which can make an accident more likely.
How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help in Corona
There are many ways a motorcycle accident lawyer in Corona can help clients who are dealing with the aftermath of an accident. By advocating for their interests, being a trusted advocate, and fighting for fair compensation, a lawyer can provide critical support during this challenging time. Below are key ways a lawyer can help you:
- Determining Fault: Lawyers gather evidence by initiating an investigation into the accident to identify who was at fault. It could be another driver, a government entity (for road hazards), or a manufacturer (if defective vehicle parts caused an accident), depending on the details of the accident. They collect key pieces of evidence to serve as proof of who is at fault, including police reports, eyewitness statements, surveillance footage, and accident scene photographs.
- Handling Insurance Companies: Insurance companies are known for trying to minimize payouts, but a lawyer can counter these tactics to secure a fair settlement for their client. Lawyers can handle the necessary documentation and contact insurance companies to make sure you are receiving fair treatment.
- Assessing Damages: Lawyers look into the full extent of the damages related to the accident, including both economic and non-economic losses. Economic damages can include medical bills (both current and future), lost wages, lost earning capacity, and property damage to the motorcycle. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
- Representation in Legal Proceedings: If negotiations with insurance adjusters are unsuccessful or unfair, a lawyer can represent you in pursuing a personal injury claim. They can prepare and present the case, cross-examine witnesses, and present evidence to prove fault. Throughout the case, they can fight for a fair settlement that accurately covers your losses.
- Reducing Stress and Providing Advocacy: Ultimately, a lawyer can manage the legal process and advise you about your case. They can advance your goals and reduce complexities. This can allow you to focus on recovery rather than needing to be concerned with the issues that come with accident claims.
FAQs About Corona, CA Motorcycle Accident Laws
How Much Are Most Motorcycle Accident Settlements?
How much a motorcycle accident settlement will be depends on the specific losses that are associated with the accident. Settlements should cover the total losses an individual has suffered due to the accident, which can include both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are the actual monetary losses that come from the accident, vehicle non-economic damages are more intangible losses, like pain and suffering.
Who Is Most Often at Fault in Motorcycle-Car Crashes?
In a crash between a motorcycle and a car, the person who is assigned fault is dependent on the specific accident, but it could be the car driver or the motorcyclist. Both parties may even share fault. For a car driver, it is essential to check blind spots and avoid distractions when driving to make sure motorcyclists are visible. For a motorcyclist, it is important to wear visible clothing, follow traffic laws, and use defensive driving techniques to anticipate driver errors.
What Do You Do If You Are in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you are in a motorcycle accident, it is important that you prioritize your own physical safety first, as these accidents can cause serious physical injuries, which may require immediate medical care. After ensuring your physical safety, it is important to contact local law enforcement. It is often a legal requirement to report an accident that results in injuries and other damages. The resultant police report is often a helpful piece of evidence that can prove fault in the accident.
What Are Common Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents?
Common injuries that can happen from a motorcycle accident include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Concussions
- Skull fractures
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Psychological trauma, like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
The injuries that are often associated with motorcycle accidents can be serious and, at times, life-threatening, making immediate medical care essential.
Contact a Trusted Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
As you move through the claims process after a motorcycle accident, it is important that you work with the right legal professional. It’s critical to find a lawyer who can understand your case and offer quality insights and suggestions on how to achieve a successful result. Consider reaching out to The Law Offices of Christian J. Amendt to set up an initial consultation and learn how our legal team can support you after your accident.