If you were a victim of a motorcycle accident, you need immediate and professional assistance, and our team of expert motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help you during this difficult time.
Our distinguished record of success in securing maximum compensation for our clients solidifies our status as one of the top California motorcycle accident law firm.
To help improve the chances of winning your case and maximizing your settlement, you must contact GJEL Accident Attorneys right away to file your motorcycle accident claim.
Get Your Case Reviewed By Our Attorneys For Free
Get your case reviewed by our top rated motorcycle crash lawyers. It’s completely free, with no obligations. This review will help you understand the worth of your motorcycle accident claim and the steps needed to maximize your financial recovery.
At GJEL, we can help you maximize the value of your case, ensure you receive the proper medical attention, and hold wrongdoers accountable.
Don’t let concerns about insurance claims, medical bills, or lost wages keep you up at night. Our experienced attorneys are skilled in addressing these issues and more, ensuring that your rights are protected every step of the way.
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but with GJEL by your side, you’re not alone.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, reach out to our motorcycle injury lawyers today. Your path to justice starts here with GJEL Accident Attorneys.
Talk to an Attorney Now
There is no fee unless and until we win your case
We will help you through this difficult time and be with you every step of the way.
GJEL is one of the highest rated motorcycle accident law firms in California. Our motorcycle injuries lawyers have 40+ years of experience with a 99% success rate.
GJEL is An Award-Winning Personal Injury Law Firm
GJEL Accident Attorneys was just rated a California personal injury law firm and top rated motorcycle accident law firm by Best Lawyers for 2021, 2022 and 2023.
We have recovered over $950 million dollars with a 99% success rate for victims who sustained this injury.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident contact GJEL Accident Attorneys right away.
Why You Need Motorcycle Accident Legal Representation
Motorcycle accident legal representation is crucial as it can help navigate the complexities of law, negotiate with insurance companies, establish fault, and ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
For example, suing the state or one of its municipalities is a much different process than seeking compensation from the driver of a passenger vehicle on the road.
You need to meet deadlines and give the government notice of your claim before you can file a lawsuit in court.
Acting quickly is crucial as California has strict deadlines for filing a motorcycle accident claim, and missing these deadlines can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation.
In any case, avoid delay. California does not give injured bikers an unlimited amount of time to pursue compensation for their injuries. The sooner you contact us, the faster we can go about getting you compensation for your injuries. Read more on: How Long Can You Wait to File a Lawsuit
At GJEL, we have what it takes to be the best motorcycle injury lawyer for your case.
To learn more about how we can help, please call 1-866-294-6918 or submit our contact form. One of our Northern California motorcycle wreck lawyers will be happy to meet with you to discuss the circumstances surrounding your crash.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait To Contact An Attorney
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we know firsthand how devastating motorcycle accidents can be. One moment, you’re enjoying a ride, and the next, you find yourself in need of an auto accident lawyer near me or a motorcycle accident attorney near me. Prompt action after a motorcycle accident can greatly influence the trajectory of your case.
Here’s why you shouldn’t wait to contact California motorcycle accident injury lawyers after an accident:
Preserving Evidence: Motorcycle accident attorneys near me understand the importance of collecting and preserving evidence. The sooner you get a lawyer involved, the sooner they can begin gathering crucial evidence from the scene of the accident, witness statements, and camera footage.
Handling Insurance Companies: An experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles, or wherever your accident occurred, knows how to deal with insurance companies effectively. They will protect your rights and ensure that the insurance companies do not take advantage of you.
Medical Bills and Lost Wages: After an accident, medical bills can pile up quickly and you might not be able to return to work immediately. A motorcycle attorney near me or a car accident lawyer can help you secure compensation for these costs.
Legal Advice: An accident can be confusing, and you might not be familiar with the legal process. A car accident attorney or personal injury lawyer can provide valuable legal advice and help you understand your rights.
Personal Injury Claims: If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may have a personal injury claim. Our experienced personal injury lawyers can evaluate your claim and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries, pain, and suffering.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer near me today. At GJEL Accident Attorneys, our team of experienced personal injury lawyers is ready to help you navigate this challenging time and fight for the justice you deserve.
A Previous Case Result From an Injured Client
A young Naval officer was riding his motorcycle on Highway101 in San Jose when a driver changing lanes swerved into him and caused him to crash. Although both drivers were going less than 25 mph due to rush hour traffic, the young rider still took some serious bodily harm, including head trauma that has left him with permanent memory trouble.
Due to his injuries, his responsibilities at his job have had to be adjusted. Thankfully, the Navy has been incredibly accommodating to his needs. Even so, he will, unfortunately, feel the effects of this accident forever.
The at-fault driver only carried insurance with a $100,000 policy limit, but GJEL did succeed in recovering this full amount.
The Motorcycle Injury Attorneys at GJEL are standing by ready to help in your time of need
We focus on serious injury and wrongful death cases throughout California only. Our priority is to get justice for motorcycle accident victims.
Don’t Wait. Speak to our Attorneys
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in the Bay Area, you should understand your legal rights.
This article provides a basic introduction to motorcycle accident law in California. First, we discuss the options you have for financial compensation after a motorcycle accident.
Then, we explain how a motorcyclist establishes negligence in a personal injury lawsuit and why a legal concept called “comparative negligence” often plays a role in motorcycle accident lawsuits.
Finally, we give an overview of the types of damages a motorcycle accident victim may receive in a personal injury lawsuit and how an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help.
Finding a lawyer for a motorcycle accident can be a difficult task and finding the best motorcycle injury lawyer can be even more difficult. The more you know, the more you’ll be able to make sure you get the right lawyer for your case.
It’s why you should seek out an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to help you with your case.
What You Should Do After A Motorcycle Crash?
Even if you don’t see signs of injury, call 911 and have paramedics check you out.
After that, you have two options for securing compensation for your injuries and other losses: a personal injury claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
Our lawyers for motorcycle accidents will be able to advise you on the best course of action. Before that, it’s important for you to understand the difference between the two.
FILE A PERSONAL INJURY CLAIM
In a personal injury claim, you file an insurance claim with your insurance provider and/or that of the at-fault driver. This initiates an investigation that will be managed by someone known as an insurance claims adjuster.
After the investigation is complete, you engage in negotiations until the insurance company offers you a financial settlement to compensate you for your injuries, financial losses, and property damage.
In exchange for accepting the settlement, you typically have to sign a release in which you agree to give up your right to sue the at-fault driver in court. Filing a personal injury claim is typically the first course of action that any motorcycle accident lawyer would recommend after a motorcycle crash, and it is essential to understand the intricacies of a motorcycle accident claim.
Not any attorney can handle motorcycle accident claims. You will want an experienced attorney with a strong track record of verdicts and settlements to help you with your case.
WHEN TO FILE A LAWSUIT
If the claims negotiation and settlement process break down and it appears that you won’t be able to obtain adequate compensation for your injuries, you may have to file a personal injury lawsuit. A personal injury lawsuit is a civil legal action in which an injured person makes a demand for monetary damages that take into account the severity of his or her injuries and other losses suffered as a result of a serious accident. Many head injury lawsuits settle before reaching trial, but some go to trial and a judge or jury will decide the amount of money the injured person is entitled to receive.
How Do I Prove Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you file a personal injury lawsuit after a motorcycle accident, your lawsuit will likely include a claim or claims against the at-fault driver for negligence. The definition of negligence is the failure to act with the level of care that a reasonable person would have used under the same or similar circumstances. In California, there are five elements of a standard negligence claim.
An “element” is a critical building block of a legal claim. If a motorcycle accident injury attorney can’t establish all of the following elements by a preponderance of the evidence, your claim will not succeed.
DUTY
The defendant must be obligated by law to act in a certain way toward the injured motorcyclists. In the case of a motorcycle accident involving a passenger vehicle or commercial truck, the “defendant” would be the at-fault driver. There is almost always a legal duty for drivers of passenger vehicles and commercial trucks to exercise reasonable care toward motorcyclists on the roadway.
BREACH OF DUTY
The driver must have breached his or her duty to exercise reasonable care. If a driver breaks a traffic law and hits a motorcyclist, the court may automatically assume that the driver has breached his or her duty of care under a legal theory that is recognized in California called “negligence per se.”
CAUSE-IN-FACT
The injured motorcyclists must prove that the driver actually caused his or her injuries and other losses. This element is sometimes referred to as “but-for” causation because the injured motorcyclist must show that but for the actions of the driver, his or her injuries and other losses would not have occurred.
PROXIMATE CAUSE
The driver in a motorcycle accident case will only be legally and financially responsible (or “liable”) for the harm suffered by the motorcyclist that was foreseeable as a result of the accident. In most motorcycle accident lawsuits in California, serious injuries are considered to be foreseeable consequences of negligent driving and proximate cause is established.
DAMAGES
The injured biker must show that the motorcycle accident caused him or her to suffer legally recognized harm, typically in the form of bodily injury, financial losses, or damage to his or her motorcycle and other property.
An experienced motorcycle accident will gather evidence from the parties who were involved in the accident, law enforcement officers, your medical care providers, and other experts in order to help build your case and establish that the driver who injured you was negligent in causing your injuries. We are experts in California motorcycle law and will help you navigate your case. Our experienced motorcycle hit and run lawyers are standing by ready to help.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycle fatalities have increased over 129% from 2,028 in 1997 to 4,654 in 2006.
However, most of the injuries sustained are to the lower body. Common injuries include road rash, broken bones, as well as back and spine injuries.
Motorcycle accidents can result in a range of injuries, some of which can be quite severe given the relative lack of protection a motorcycle provides compared to a car. Here is a list of common motorcycle accident injuries:
Road Rash: This is a skin abrasion that occurs when a rider slides across the surface of the road after a fall from their motorcycle. Depending on the severity, road rash can lead to serious skin damage, infections, and even permanent scarring.
Head Injuries: This is a broad category that includes concussions, traumatic brain injuries (TBI), and skull fractures. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of severe head injuries.
Spinal Cord Injuries: These can range from mild strains to paralysis, depending on the area and severity of the injury. In the worst-case scenarios, spinal cord injuries can lead to permanent disability.
Broken Bones: These are common in motorcycle accidents due to the impact of the crash. Commonly fractured bones include the collarbone, wrists, arms, and legs.
Biker’s Arm: This is a term for nerve damage in the arm that occurs when a motorcyclist instinctively uses their arm to break a fall during an accident.
Leg and Foot Injuries: This includes fractures, sprains, and cuts to the legs and feet. While these injuries are often not life-threatening, they can still be debilitating.
Internal Injuries: These occur when the impact of a crash causes internal damage to organs, blood vessels, or the abdomen. These injuries can be life-threatening and often require immediate medical attention.
Facial Injuries: These can occur if a rider’s face comes into contact with the road, another vehicle, or debris. They can range from minor cuts and bruises to severe lacerations and jaw or facial fractures.
Neck Injuries: These can range from whiplash, a common injury caused by the sudden force of impact, to more serious injuries like neck fractures.
Psychological Trauma: Motorcycle accidents can also lead to psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
Remember, the best way to prevent these injuries is to practice safe riding techniques, always wear a helmet and protective gear, and follow the rules of the road.
How Will Comparative Negligence Impact My Case?
California courts apply a legal theory known as pure comparative negligence to personal injury cases, including motorcycle accident lawsuits. Under this theory, if there is evidence that the plaintiff was also substantially at fault for the accident, the amount of money he or she ultimately receives will be reduced by the percentage of his or her responsibility.
In many motorcycle accident lawsuits, the at-fault driver will argue that the injured motorcyclist was also negligent in causing the accident. While this is sometimes true, this is often used as a defense tactic by the at-fault driver’s lawyers to reduce the amount of damages you receive for your injuries and other losses.
HOW MUCH DOES IT MEANS
For example, say a truck driver and a motorcyclist are in an accident. As a result of the accident, the motorcyclist suffered $250,000 in damages. The lawyers for the truck driver successfully argue that the motorcyclist was 40% at fault for the accident. Under California law, the motorcyclist’s damages would be reduced by 40% to $150,000.
This is one of the many reasons why it is important to hire an experienced and aggressive motorcycle accident lawyer to handle your case.
Types of Damages in a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
The ultimate goal of any motorcycle accident lawsuit is to secure compensation for the victim’s injuries and other harms that he or she suffered. In California, a plaintiff who succeeds in his or her motorcycle accident lawsuit can expect to receive compensation for the following types of damages.
COSTS OF PAST AND FUTURE MEDICAL TREATMENT.
If you succeed in your lawsuit and the other party or parties were totally at fault, you can expect to receive full compensation for the costs of any past and future medical treatment needed as a result of the injuries you sustained in the accident. This includes costs for time spent in an emergency room or care facility, copayments for visits to your doctor or other treatment facilities, costs of prescription drugs and other medical supplies, and the cost of any ongoing physical therapy or long-term care.
COMPENSATION FOR PAIN AND SUFFERING.
If the injuries you sustained in your motorcycle accident were severe and lead you to experience extreme pain and emotional suffering, you may be entitled to compensation. Your lawyer can help you determine whether it’s appropriate to pursue compensation for this type of damage as part of your lawsuit.
Many motorcycle accident victims are forced to take time away from their jobs to recover from the serious injuries they suffer in accidents. Unfortunately, some are left unable to work for extended periods of time or become permanently disabled. If you lose wages or have your ability to work is impacted as a result of a motorcycle accident, you deserve to be compensated for your financial loss.
DAMAGE TO PROPERTY.
If your motorcycle or property you were riding with at the time of the accident was damaged, you may receive compensation for the fair market value of your bike and other property at the time of the motorcycle accident.
Case Result A young Naval officer, was riding his motorcycle on Highway101 in San Jose when a driver changing lanes swerved into him and caused him to crash. Although both drivers were going less than 25 mph due to rush hour traffic, the young rider still took some serious bodily harm, including head trauma that has left him with permanent memory trouble. Due to his injuries, responsibilities at his job have had to be adjusted. Thankfully, the Navy has been incredibly accommodating to his needs. Even so, he will, unfortunately, feel the effects of this accident forever. The at-fault driver only carried insurance with a $100,000 policy limit, but GJEL did succeed in recovering this full amount.
The Motorcycle injury attorneys at GJEL are standing by ready to help in your time of need. We boast a team of the best motorcycle injury attorneys in the region, dedicated to fighting for your rights after an accident.
Top Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in California
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, motorcycle fatalities increased to 548 in 2016 from 494 in 2015—an increase of over 10%. There were also over 13,000 injury collisions involving motorcycles in 2015.
Although riding a motorcycle is a popular hobby thanks to the state’s scenery and weather, accident statistics like these should give all bikers pause.
Below, we summarize some of the top causes of motorcycle accidents. Often, motorcyclists themselves are at fault for accidents, but most accidents are caused by other motorists on the road.
INTOXICATION
Alcohol plays a large role in many collisions. According to California’s Internet Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) data, alcohol or drugs were the primary factor in around 7% of all collisions where the motorcyclist was at fault for the crash. Drugs and alcohol might have also been a contributing factor in many more accidents.
These statistics do not include accidents where another motorist is responsible for the collision. In those cases, impaired motorists can collide with motorcyclists for a variety of reasons:
The impaired driver cannot see the biker, especially at night. The impaired motorist cannot judge distances properly and might try to execute a left-hand turn directly in front of the motorcycle. An impaired motorist has slowed reflexes, which prevents them from braking or swerving in time to avoid an accident.
THE IMPAIRED MOTORIST ENGAGES IN RECKLESS BEHAVIOR.
It is not possible to completely protect against impaired drivers. Nevertheless, you can take a motorcycle safety skills course that will sharpen your ability to take defensive action if you see a vehicle drifting into your lane.
UNSAFE SPEED
By far the largest cause of motorcycle accidents is driving too fast for the conditions. According to California data, this was the primary collision factor in almost half of all accidents that were the fault of the motorcyclist.
Driving too fast can cause accidents in a variety of ways. For example, the motorcyclist will have less time to stop or slow down when traveling too fast. It is very easy to suddenly come upon something in the road, like a stranded motorist, and not have sufficient time to act.
Traveling fast can also make a biker lose control of the bike. The chances of hydroplaning or skidding out increase dramatically depending on how fast the bike is traveling.
Other motorists can also collide with motorcyclists when they are traveling too fast for the same reasons as those listed above.
IMPROPER TURN
A large number of accidents are also caused by improper turning. Though motorcyclists can sometimes make an improper turn and cause a crash, it is far more likely that another motorist makes a turn that causes an accident.
In fact, cars making left-hand turns cause around 42% of all fatal accidents with motorcycles. These accidents often occur at intersections, where a motorist is waiting patiently to make a turn. Often, motorists, unfortunately, do not even see motorcycles coming toward them.
Sometimes, the motorcycle is hidden behind a car, and the driver assumes that there is no traffic behind the vehicle passing through the intersection. As a result, they quickly execute a left-hand turn—and smash directly into a motorcyclist moving through the intersection.
In other situations, a motorist waiting to make a left-hand turn might see an approaching motorcycle but believe the bike is traveling much slower than it is. Other motorists simply lack respect for bikers and think the biker should stop for them when they make a left-hand turn.
Whatever the reason, improper turns are a serious factor in many accidents. To protect yourself, motorcyclists should always exercise extreme caution when approaching an intersection. It is also helpful to ride closer to the center line so that the waiting motorist can see that you are behind another car.
ACCIDENTS CAUSED BY IMPROPER TURNING
A large number of accidents are also caused by improper turning. Though motorcyclists can sometimes make an improper turn and cause a crash, it is far more likely that another motorist makes a turn that causes an accident.
In fact, cars making left-hand turns cause around 42% of all fatal accidents with motorcycles. These accidents often occur at intersections, where a motorist is waiting patiently to make a turn. Often, motorists, unfortunately, do not even see motorcycles coming toward them.
DISTRACTED DRIVING
The sad fact is that too many people are trying to do too many things while out on the road.
Instead of focusing on driving, many motorists and motorcyclists are instead talking on the phone, sending or reading a text message, eating, or otherwise spacing out.
Problems with distracted driving are heightened for motorcyclists because they are often invisible to other drivers.
Motorcycles tend to blend with the road or with other cars, and drivers are not really looking for motorcyclists.
Also, many bikers wear dark helmets and dark clothing, which further acts to mask them.
HOW MOTORCYCLISTS CAN BE MORE VISIBLE
Distracted driving continues to increase. Nevertheless, there are things that motorcyclists can do to make themselves more visible. For example:
Paint your bike a bright color. If you don’t want neon pink, then at least don’t choose a dark color like black or brown. Instead, go for bright red or white. Wear bright clothing. You can also wear a colorful helmet. Lime green or yellow tends to stand out.
Put reflective tape on your clothing and on the motorcycle. Add auxiliary lights to your bicycle. Use your beams during the day. These will make you stand out.
Tap your horn if you are entering a blind spot or if you think a motorist cannot see you.
FOLLOWING TOO CLOSELY
Motorists need a cushion between them and surrounding vehicles in case they need to stop or slow down. When motorists follow too closely, they can easily collide with other vehicles around them.
According to SWITRS data, following too closely was the primary cause in fewer than 2% of all accidents where the motorcyclist was at fault. However, tailgating might also have been a contributing cause of many more accidents.
KEEP DISTANCE AND BE AWARE OF THE ROAD CONDITIONS
When coupled with poor road conditions, such as sleet, snow, or rain, following too closely is a recipe for disaster. Especially in poor weather, remember to give yourself an added cushion of time—four seconds or more. Reckless bikers might think that they don’t need a cushion because they can maneuver the bike quickly out of the way to avoid a crash.
Unfortunately, it is just as likely that you will quickly avoid the crash but then strike another vehicle or lose control of the bike when you swerve onto a gravel shoulder.
LANE SPLITTING
Because motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles, some bikers like to drive between two lanes of slowed or stopped cars to make headway in traffic jams. This is called “lane splitting,” and it, unfortunately, is quite dangerous.
When you lane split, you risk striking a vehicle or having a vehicle strike you as it inches along the road. Most motorists are not expecting motorcyclists to threat in and out of traffic, so they might not be looking for you.
COLLIDING WITH A FIXED OBJECT
A large number of motorcycle deaths stem from motorcycles colliding with stationary objects like trees, mailboxes, fire hydrants, and walls. There are many reasons why a motorcyclist would collide with objects that they should be able to avoid. For example, a motorcyclist might become distracted, either because they are reading a text message or talking on the phone.
Motorcyclists might also lose control in inclement weather and crash into objects. The reasons for losing control might vary, with driving too fast for conditions being one reason.
DANGEROUS ROADS
Sometimes defects on the road cause motorcycle accidents. Because of their smaller size and greater instability, motorcycles often have more trouble with road defects than operators of passenger vehicles or commercial trucks. Many different road hazards can cause a biker to lose control, including:
Potholes Uneven pavement Sloping roads Defective shoulders Oiliness or other slickness on the road
Some road defects have existed for years without the government taking any action to make the road safer for all motorists, including bikers. In certain situations, you can sue the government for failing to repair the road.
CAR DOORS
A vehicle parked on the side of the road usually poses no problem to a motorcyclist. However, if a passenger in the vehicle opens a door without looking behind them, then the biker can drive straight into the door. Many bikers tear the door off and/or end up being thrown clear of their bike, where they collide with the pavement or another parked vehicle.
In city driving, you can avoid this problem by driving closer to the center of the lane. Also avoid trying to pass vehicles on the right, which could put you in direct line for striking the opened door of a parked car.
MALFUNCTIONING OR DEFECTIVE MOTORCYCLES
Even careful defensive driving cannot prevent all accidents because sometimes a crash is caused by your bike. When a motorcycle malfunction, even the most skill biker can lose control and end up colliding with another vehicle or a stationary object.
RECENT MOTORCYCLES RECALL
Motorcycles are recalled all the time. Some of the most recent recall for safety defects include:
Yamaha recalled almost 3,500 bikes in 2018 because the drive chain guard could become loose due to a defect.
Brembo issued a recall because defective brake pads could provide less effective braking. The defect was caused during the manufacturing process. Harley-Davidson issued a recall because of concerns that its antilock brakes could cause accidents if not properly maintained.
You can check the most recent motorcycle recalls by visiting the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) website here. You can look up your motorcycle by its VIN, which you can usually find on a metal plate near the steering head.
If your motorcycle is subject to a recall, you should take it to be repaired as soon as possible, otherwise, you are increasing your risk of an accident.
Of course, not all bicycle defects will show up in a recall on the NHTSA website. There might only have been a problem with your motorcycle and not others in the production line. Even in the absence of a recall, injured motorcyclists can hold the manufacturer responsible for the accident and receive compensation if the bike is defective.
Remember to have your motorcycle serviced regularly and raise any problems that you notice with your mechanic.
Inexperienced Drivers and Motorcyclists
Driver inexperience can also contribute to motorcycle accidents. If a driver is under 18 years of age, they must complete a motorcycle rider training course. However, this requirement is not required if you are age 18 and older.
Unfortunately, too many riders are inexperienced in how to operate a motorcycle. As a result, they get into accidents that more experienced bikers could avoid with ease. If you are getting your motorcycle license, take a training course regardless of whether it is required. It could save your life.
Don’t settle for less after a motorcycle crash. Consult with GJEL Accident Attorneys and work with a top motorcycle crash lawyer.
Injured in a California Motorcycle Accident? GJEL Can Help
California motorcyclists are not powerless after an accident. Even if you are suffering from serious injuries and unable to work, you can still take matters into your own hands. In particular, you might be able to file a claim for compensation if someone else is responsible for the accident.
Call our motorcycle accident liability lawyers in California today for a free case review.
At GJEL, we have experience holding the following entities responsible for collisions our clients suffer:
Motorists for driving negligently or recklessly
Motorcycle manufacturers for putting defective motorcycles or motorcycle parts into the stream of commerce The government for not properly maintaining roads
Each case is different, so you need an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Northern California to help you build your case for compensation. For example, suing the state or one of its municipalities is a much different process than seeking compensation from the driver of a passenger vehicle on the road.
You need to meet deadlines and give the government notice of your claim before you can file a lawsuit in court.
To learn more about how we can help, please reach out to us as soon as possible. One of our Northern California motorcycle accident attorneys will be happy to meet with you to discuss the circumstances surrounding your crash. We can help identify whether you have a valid legal claim and against who. Please call 1-866-294-6918 or submit our contact form.
Avoid delay. California does not give injured bikers an unlimited amount of time to pursue compensation for their injuries. The sooner you contact us, the faster we can go about getting you compensation for your injuries.
Are Motorcycle Accidents Treated Different Than Car Accidents? Technically, motorcycle accidents and auto accidents are treated identically under the law, but as a practical matter, juries are less kind and less favorable to motorcycle riders than they are to automobile drivers. And this is very often an unfair stereotype.
The jury sometimes assumes that the motorcyclist is crazy, taking unnecessary risks, etc – but we do an awful lot of motorcycle injury cases, and these stereotypes can be overcome just by demonstrating that the person was doing everything right, and was just trying to get to work and that it was not their fault.
We Are An Award Winning Motorcycle Accident Injury Law Firm
GJEL Accident Attorneys was just rated a top motorcycle accident law firm by Best Lawyers for 2021 and 2022. We have also recovered over $950 million with a 99% success rate for victims who sustained this injury.
If you’re searching for a “motorcycle accident attorney near me,” look no further than GJEL Accident Attorneys – we’re ready to provide you with the expert legal representation you need.
We have offices throughout Northern California. For residents of Southern California, GJEL Accident Attorneys serves as a premier motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles, ready to provide expert legal support for victims of motorcycle accidents, but we do not have an office located there.
California Motorcycle Accident Law Firm Resources
Below is a collection of articles on motorcycle accident cases in CA. Each case is different, so you need an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Northern California to help you build your case for compensation.
If you or someone you know was injured, contact GJEL’s best motorcycle accident lawyer today for a no-obligation free case review at 1-866-292-9907
Below are common questions we get asked about motorcycle accident cases.
ARE MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS TREATED DIFFERENTLY THAN CAR ACCIDENTS?
Technically, motorcycle accidents and car accidents are treated identically under the law, but as a practical matter, juries are less kind and less favorable to motorcycle riders than they are to automobile drivers. And this is very often an unfair stereotype.
The jury sometimes assumes that the motorcyclist is crazy, taking unnecessary risks, etc – but our motorcycle accident attorneys do an awful lot of injury cases, and these stereotypes can be overcome just by demonstrating that the person was doing everything right, and was just trying to get to work and that it was not their fault.
WHO’S RESPONSIBLE FOR MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT IN CALIFORNIA?
At GJEL, we have experience holding the following entities responsible for collisions our clients suffer:
Motorists for driving negligently or recklessly
Motorcycle manufacturers for putting defective motorcycles or motorcycle parts into the stream of commerce
The government for not properly maintaining roads
HOW OFTEN DOES MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT HAPPEN IN THE US?
Each year, as many as 88,000 motorcyclists are injured in the United States. For every mile traveled, motorcyclist fatalities are 26 times more likely to occur than passenger car occupant fatalities in serious accidents.
With winding roads and breathtaking views, the Bay Area is filled with scenic roads that are perfect for riding all kinds of motorcycles during most of the year. Unfortunately for motorcyclists, riding in the Golden State is not without risk. In California, motorcycle deaths represent 17% of all road fatalities and the state’s total number of motorcycle fatalities is second only to Florida. That’s why our motorcycle accident attorneys are always ready to hear your case.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR MOTORCYCLE IS SUBJECT TO A RECALL?
You should take it to be repaired as soon as possible, otherwise, you are increasing your risk of an accident.
Of course, not all bicycle defects will show up in a recall on the NHTSA website. There might only have been a problem with your motorcycle and not others in the production line. Even in the absence of a recall, injured motorcyclists can hold the manufacturer responsible for the accident and receive compensation if the bike is defective.
Remember to have your motorcycle serviced regularly and raise any problems that you notice with your mechanic.
HOW DO YOU FIND THE BEST MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER?
To find the best motorcycle lawyer for your case you should explain the circumstances of your case, learn about their past results, and make sure you get along with them. You can use services such as Superlawyers or BestLawyers to find more.
California Motorcycle Accident Law Offices Near You
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we understand the unique challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims in California. Motorcycle accidents can occur in a variety of ways, including rear-end collisions, left-turn accidents, and incidents involving lane splitting or speeding. Each type of accident presents its own set of complexities, and our team of experienced attorneys is well-versed in navigating these intricacies to secure the best possible outcome for our clients.
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, ranging from traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage to road rash, broken bones, and internal injuries. The aftermath of such an accident can be overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive legal support to motorcycle accident victims, helping them navigate the medical, insurance, and legal processes that follow such an incident.
According to recent motorcycle accident statistics, California sees a significant number of these accidents each year. As legal professionals, we believe it’s crucial to understand and communicate these statistics to highlight the importance of safe riding practices and the potential consequences of negligence on the road.
One of the key legal aspects of a motorcycle accident case is proving negligence. In California, this involves demonstrating that the other party had a duty of care, breached this duty and that this breach directly resulted in your injuries. Our attorneys are skilled in gathering and presenting evidence to establish negligence, from traffic camera footage and witness statements to expert testimonies.
Another critical aspect is understanding the potential compensation motorcycle accident victims can receive. This may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we strive to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation they are entitled to.
Lastly, it’s important to note that there is a statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit in California. This means you have a limited time to take legal action after your accident. Our team can guide you through this timeline and ensure all necessary steps are taken promptly.
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we are committed to standing by motorcycle accident victims every step of the way. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free case review.
GJEL has been rated as a top motorcycle injury lawyer by Best Lawyer, Newsweek, and US News & World Report.