On April 7, 2019, at 4:50 p.m., our client met a motorcycle accident while riding his 2004 Harley Fatboy motorcycle southbound on State Route 152 at its intersection with Watsonville Road in unincorporated Santa Clara County. While adhering to all traffic laws, he was struck by a negligent driver, resulting in a catastrophic accident. This collision led to severe injuries, substantial medical expenses, and a significant loss of income, leaving our client in a state of profound uncertainty.
Details of the Motorcycle vs. Vehicle Collision
This incident involved a collision between our client’s motorcycle and a 2019 Toyota CHR LE/XL. The accident occurred when the driver of the Toyota veered into our client’s lane despite clear road conditions. The impact resulted in devastating injuries to our client, including a mild to moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI), concussion, right ankle fracture, rib fractures (6th-10th), left collapsed lung, left renal laceration (Grade II), injured knee, and facial lacerations. He was transported via Cal Star Ambulance to Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, where he received immediate trauma care.
Case Facts and Legal Challenges
Following the accident, our client required extensive ongoing medical treatment, including cognitive therapy. A dispute arose between Travelers Insurance (the at-fault driver’s insurer) and Foremost Insurance (our client’s insurer) regarding liability, causing a delay in our client receiving necessary financial assistance. This compounded his distress as he faced mounting medical bills and lost wages.
Seeking clarity and compensation, our client contacted GJEL Accident Attorneys. He needed answers to critical questions:
- Who would be responsible for his escalating medical expenses?
- How would he manage his financial obligations and lost income?
- What if he suffered permanent, life-altering injuries?
Recognizing the severity of his situation, GJEL attorneys met with him at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. They initiated a thorough investigation, including obtaining the police report from the Gilroy California Highway Patrol. The report unequivocally established the other driver’s 100% liability.
Successful Resolution and Settlement
Initially, both insurance companies disputed liability, offering no settlement. However, as GJEL prepared for litigation, it became evident to the insurers that a substantial settlement was warranted. Attorneys Andy Gillin and Jim Larsen skillfully navigated the complexities of the case, securing a $1,350,000 settlement for our client within ten months without the need for a lawsuit.
Key Case Details
- Insurance Companies: Client – Foremost Insurance, At-Fault Driver – Travelers
- Police Report: Gilroy CHP
- Vehicles: 2004 Harley Fatboy motorcycle, 2019 Toyota CHR LE/XL
- Accident Location: SR-152 at Watsonville Rd., Santa Clara County, CA
- Medical Facilities: Cal Star Ambulance, Santa Clara Valley Medical Center, South Valley Neurology (Morgan Hill, CA), BASS Medical Group
- Injuries: Mild to moderate TBI, concussion, right ankle fracture, rib fractures, collapsed lung, renal laceration, injured knee, facial lacerations, and memory problems.
This case exemplifies the devastating consequences of negligent driving and the critical importance of skilled legal representation for accident victims. Our client, facing severe injuries and financial hardship, found a powerful advocate in GJEL Accident Attorneys.
Through meticulous investigation and strategic negotiation, our firm secured a $1.35 million settlement, allowing our client to rebuild his life. This outcome underscores the necessity of holding negligent parties accountable and ensuring that victims receive the full compensation they deserve for their suffering.
Navigating the aftermath of a serious motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when facing disputes with insurance companies. GJEL Accident Attorneys understands the complexities of these cases and is committed to fighting for the rights of injured individuals. We recognize the physical, emotional, and financial burdens that accidents impose, and we strive to alleviate these burdens by providing compassionate and effective legal representation.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal assistance. Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our experienced team will thoroughly evaluate your situation, answer your questions, and guide you through the legal process. Let us help you recover the compensation you need to move forward with your life. Call us at +1 415-986-4777 or visit our Concord office to talk to the legal experts.
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.