Our client, a supervisor at the VA hospital and graduate student at SF State University, was riding his BMW R1200 GSA motorcycle on Skyline Boulevard in San Francisco. As he entered the intersection with Harding Road, he was struck by a Lexus sedan making a left turn from the side street. The impact was severe, throwing him 40-50 feet before he landed on the pavement.
Details of the Motorcycle Accident
The San Francisco Fire Department administered emergency medical treatment at the scene, and our client was transported by ambulance to San Francisco General Hospital (SFGH).
Case Facts and Medical Treatment
Upon arrival at SFGH, he was diagnosed with a concussion from head trauma, a spinal fracture, lower back and shoulder pain, and multiple abrasions to his lower extremities. He was admitted to the neurosurgery unit for ongoing neurological and physical evaluations. Physical and occupational therapy were initiated, but severe pain limited progress, requiring multiple pain medications. Cognitive impairment, including attention span and short-term memory dysfunction, was also noted.
After three days, he was transferred to Kaiser Hospital in San Francisco, where his back pain, spasms, headaches, nausea, and loss of appetite were documented. He remained at Kaiser for three days before being discharged home.
Despite physical therapy and pain medication, he continued to experience pain and physical limitations, impacting his job performance and academic work. He required more time to complete tasks and had to repeat coursework. Acupuncture provided some relief in the range of motion but did not alleviate the pain.
Legal Advocacy and Settlement
GJEL Accident Attorneys were retained to pursue compensation for medical expenses and lost income. A lawsuit was filed, and settlement negotiations continued as the client’s medical condition stabilized. GJEL partner Jim Larsen obtained an independent neurological examination, which supported the persistence of cognitive issues and the need for future evaluation and treatment.
GJEL attorneys also negotiated a substantial reduction in hospital and medical treatment liens, maximizing the client’s financial recovery. The case was settled with GEICO, the responsible party’s insurer, for $425,000.
Key Case Details:
- Insurance Company: GEICO, Kaiser Permanente
- Police Report: San Francisco Police Department
- Vehicles: 2008 BMW R1200 GSA Touring motorcycle, 1999 Lexus GS 300
- Accident Location: Skyline Blvd intersection with Harding Rd, San Francisco
- Medical Facilities: San Francisco General Hospital, Kaiser Hospital, San Francisco
- Injuries: Traumatic brain injury, L1 endplate fracture, displaced fracture, L1 transverse process, post-concussional syndrome.
This case vividly illustrates the devastating consequences of motorcycle accidents, particularly when negligence leads to severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries and spinal fractures. The client’s journey from the accident scene to recovery was fraught with physical pain and cognitive challenges, highlighting the importance of comprehensive medical care and legal representation.
GJEL Accident Attorneys’ commitment to securing a $425,000 settlement demonstrates their dedication to ensuring that victims receive the financial resources necessary to navigate the long and arduous path to recovery.
Navigating the complexities of personal injury claims, especially those involving severe injuries, requires expertise and unwavering advocacy. GJEL Accident Attorneys’ ability to secure a substantial settlement, despite the challenges posed by the client’s complex medical condition, underscores their proficiency in handling such cases.
Their efforts to reduce medical liens and obtain an independent neurological examination further exemplify their commitment to maximizing client recovery. This case is a testament to the firm’s ability to provide effective legal representation and achieve favorable client outcomes.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident resulting in serious injuries, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our experienced team will thoroughly evaluate your case, answer your questions, and fight for your rights.
We are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve, allowing you to focus on your recovery and rebuild your life. Let us help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the justice and financial support you need. Call us at +1 415-986-4777 or visit our Walnut Creek office.
Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.