Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in North Hollywood, CA
Motorcycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries. This leaves motorcycle accident victims grappling with immense physical, emotional, and financial burdens. In such circumstances, having a skilled motorcycle accident attorney from the Law Offices of Steers & Associates can be invaluable.
Without the expertise of motorcycle accident attorneys, accident victims often find themselves at a disadvantage when dealing with insurance companies or facing legal battles alone. Insurance companies are primarily concerned with minimizing payouts, leaving victims to bear the brunt of their injuries' financial and emotional toll.
Experienced motorcycle accident lawyers from Steers & Associates understand the intricacies of these cases and will tirelessly fight to protect your rights. You'll obtain the justice and compensation you deserve for the hardships you've endured.
What Are the Elements of a Motorcycle Accident Case in North Hollywood, CA?
To pursue a successful motorcycle accident claim, a motorcycle crash lawyer must establish four significant elements. These can determine how you can get compensation for the injuries and suffering.Duty
The first element involves proving that the at-fault party had a duty of care toward the victim. In California, drivers are expected to operate their vehicles safely and exercise reasonable care toward fellow motorists. Any reckless or negligent behavior, like distracted driving, constitutes a breach of this duty of care.Breach
A lawyer must demonstrate that the duty of care was violated by the offending driver. This can be proven by showing that the driver was under the influence, distracted, reckless, or engaged in other careless actions that compromised their ability to drive safely, such as speeding in poor weather conditions or making unsafe turns.Causation
Causation requires proving that the victim sustained injuries at the time of the accident. Seeking prompt medical attention is highly recommended. This creates a paper trail and medical records that can serve as evidence of the injuries sustained.Damages
A lawyer must establish a direct causal link between the defendant's recklessness or poor judgment and the injuries suffered by the accident victim. After validating these elements, settlement negotiations can commence, or preparations can be made for a trial.What Are the Common Causes of North Hollywood Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle riders face numerous risks, and a motorcycle accident occurs when drivers fail to exercise caution and share the road responsibly. From distracted driving to poor road conditions and vehicle defects, various factors can contribute to devastating motorcycle collisions in North Hollywood, California.- Lane Change: Blind spots can be a problem for motorcyclists, and when changing lanes, a biker has to be aware of where those are.
- Left Turns: When a car turns left in an intersection or even on a roadway if they don’t see the motorcycle going straight, it can cause a serious accident.
- Right Hook: When a motorcycle is riding in the right-hand lane, a car will move from an outside lane and then turn right leaving the biker nowhere to go.
- Head-On: A passing car on a two-lane highway or a car veering over the centerline can mean a catastrophic accident for a motorcyclist.
- Rear-End: A motorist will not stop in time when they have a room, yet they just don’t see the motorcycle right in front of them.
- Distracted Driving: Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or not paying full attention increase the risk of overlooking and colliding with motorcyclists.
- Poor Road Conditions: Uneven lanes, potholes, and lack of proper signage can also result in hazardous roads.
- Dooring: Another cause of motorcycle accidents is when a car driver or passenger opens their door without checking for oncoming motorcycles.
- Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or certain medications have reduced reaction times, posing a significant risk to motorcyclists.
- Speeding: Drivers may lack adequate time to react due to speed, leading to high-speed collisions.
- Defective Vehicle Parts: An accident occurs when motorcycles or other vehicles malfunction due to defective parts.
Motorcycle Risks in California
To reduce the alarmingly high incidence of motorcycle accidents in California, the California Highway Patrol hosts the Motorcycle Safety Course. This program aims to educate motorcyclists on safe riding practices, such as proper lane-splitting techniques and avoiding blind spots.
Despite these efforts, motorcycle accidents remain a significant concern. Motorcyclists comprise 13% of traffic deaths in the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that the United States spends an average of $12 billion for fatal and non-fatal crash-related injuries from motorcyclists.
Motorcycle Fatalities and Injuries
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 31% of automobile crashes result in injury. When a motorcycle crashes, the motorcycle rider is ejected from the bike and impacts the pavement further injuring the rider. These dynamics cause certain common motorcycle injuries:- Traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash or neck injuries
- Lower extremity injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Severe concussions
- Broken wrists
- Shattered kneecaps
- Broken facial bones
- Fractured or displaced ribs
- Severe road rash
- Deep bruises
- Lacerations
What Should I Do When I Get Involved in a North Hollywood Motorcycle Wreck?
When you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in North Hollywood, you need to take immediate action to protect your rights. This helps make sure you receive the legal services and compensation you deserve. With these steps, you'll strengthen your personal injury case and increase your chances of fair compensation.- Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don't feel injured. Document and photograph any injuries sustained.
- Secure a copy of the official accident report from the police. Additionally, keep records of your medical expenses, lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident.
- Get quotes for motorcycle repairs or replacements.
- Contact a North Hollywood motorcycle accident lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases.
- Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance adjusters.
- Don't settle or accept any offers until you've consulted with your legal representative.
- Notify your insurance provider about the accident.
- Avoid posting details on social media platforms.
Timeframe for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in California
In California, there is a two-year statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit for personal injury. This legal timeframe starts from the date of the accident, giving you a limited window to initiate the legal process. Failing to file your motorcycle accident claim on time can result in losing your right to seek compensation, even if you have a strong case. An experienced law firm, like Steers & Associates, specializing in motorcycle accidents can file your claim correctly within the allotted time frame. With our expertise, we can guide you through the necessary steps, gather evidence, and navigate the legal system effectively. These can maximize your chances of receiving justice and compensation for your motorcycle accident injuries.Recoverable Damages From a Motorcycle Collision Claim
A court may award compensatory damages to motorcycle accident victims after establishing someone else's negligence. Although nothing can undo the accident, you'll be entitled to these compensatory damages:- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Pain or suffering
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
Why Do I Need a North Hollywood Motorcycle Accident Lawyer to Handle My Case?
When you've been involved in a motorcycle crash in North Hollywood, Steers & Associates is the firm you can trust to handle your civil lawsuit. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers will:
- Conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding your accident.
- Gather evidence from various sources, including communication with car drivers, insurance companies, medical records and bills, eyewitness accounts, and accident reconstruction experts.
- Preserve relevant evidence and accurately assess the value of your claims.
- Counter any low-ball settlement offers from insurance companies. This makes sure you receive the full compensation for your injuries and losses.
- File the necessary legal documents, meet court deadlines, and represent you in court, leveraging our litigation expertise to fight for your rights.
Things That Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Do For You After a Motorcycle Crash
A motorcycle crash can put a financial toll on you. You may be unable to work or manage your business effectively, exhausting your sick leave credits or leading to a potential job loss. Our law firm aims to recover your lost income and calculate the difference between your current earnings and what you should have made had your career progressed without the accident's impact. We seek maximum compensation for non-economic damages such as chronic pain, emotional distress, and other issues arising from the traumatic event. The Law Offices of Steers & Associates can pursue punitive damage in cases of wrongful death or egregious misconduct by the defendant. Our goal is to add possible value to your lawsuit, making sure you receive the financial recovery and freedom you deserve.How Do I Select a Hollywood Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for My Accident Claim?
When selecting a Hollywood motorcycle accident lawyer for your accident claim, it helps to research and consider several factors to guarantee you receive the best legal representation possible. Choosing the right motorcycle accident attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your personal injury law case. Consider the following when selecting an accident lawyer:- Years of proven experience, specifically in motorcycle accident cases
- Esteemed reputation among other motorcycle accident attorneys and law firms
- Specialized expertise in handling injuries sustained in your specific type of accident
- Commitment to providing personalized attention and aggressive representation
Related Questions
How Much Are Motorcycle Accident Claims Worth?
The value of motorcycle accident claims can range from thousands to even millions of dollars, depending on the accident's severity and the extent of the injuries sustained. Our experienced law firm can determine the appropriate compensation based on the impact of your serious injuries on your ability to resume a normal life.Is There a Difference Between a Criminal and a Civil Motorcycle Accident Case?
A criminal case involves the government prosecuting the at-fault party for violating traffic laws. Meanwhile, a civil personal injury claim is a legal action taken by the victim against the negligent party to seek compensation for damages.What Should I Do If My Case Goes to Trial?
Should your case proceed to trial, an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer from our legal team will be by your side. Your personal injury lawyer will file the necessary paperwork, represent you in court, and negotiate with the other driver's insurance company to make sure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.How Does a North Hollywood Motorcycle Accident Differ From a Car Accident?
While both motorcycle accidents and car accidents can result in personal injury claims, motorcycle riders are more vulnerable and susceptible to severe injuries due to their lack of physical protection compared to those in enclosed vehicles. Motorcycle accident cases often require specialized expertise that's different from that of a car accident attorney.Motorcycle Accidents in California
