On August 15, 2022, at 5 PM, a motorcycle accident occurred at the intersection of Stanyan and Geary Blvd in San Francisco. Our client’s Kawasaki Z1000 motorcycle collided with a Mazda 3.
The collision was caused when the Mazda driver made a left turn directly in front of the motorcyclist, cutting off his path. The front of the motorcycle was crushed into the exhaust, impacting the Mazda’s rear passenger door. The insurance companies involved were Amica Insurance, Anthem, and Medi-Cal.
Client Details
The client, a veteran and optician working approximately 60 hours per week, sought GJEL Accident Attorneys’ representation after terminating a contract with a previous attorney. He was referred to GJEL by a former client.
Injury Details & Medical Treatment
The client sustained severe injuries, including a broken arm, wrist dislocation with fracture, road rash on his legs, and a hand fracture with exposed bone. He was transported to San Francisco General Hospital, where he underwent surgery and required a PICC line.
Complications led to a second surgery to address an infection. He then moved to a skilled nursing facility and required in-home care. He received treatment at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital and Trauma Center, UCSF Orthopedic Institute, and Saint Mary’s Medical Center.
Long-Term Effects
The accident resulted in lifelong conditions, including chronic ankle and knee aches when walking, stiffness in the hand and inability to grab objects, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) flashbacks from the accident, irritability, and difficulty focusing due to persistent thoughts about the accident, and ongoing pain management needs.
These persistent issues significantly impacted the client’s quality of life, affecting his ability to perform daily tasks and enjoy recreational activities.
The emotional trauma of the accident also presented ongoing challenges, requiring therapy and continuous support to manage the psychological effects. The client faced a future marked by limitations and a constant need for medical attention, underscoring the severity of the injuries sustained.
Legal Process & Challenges
Attorneys Andy Gillin, Ralph Jacobson, and Jim Larsen represented the client in a lawsuit filed in San Francisco Superior Court. The case took two years from intake to settlement, and depositions were taken with a trial date set. One of the biggest challenges in the case was that the client did not recall speeding, yet the police report claimed he was.
The insurance companies attempted to place 40% of the fault on the client, which posed a significant legal issue and required extensive investigation to counter. This involved gathering additional witness statements, analyzing the accident scene, and consulting with accident reconstruction experts to challenge the police report’s findings.
Furthermore, managing the client’s complex medical treatments and coordinating with multiple insurance providers, including Amica Insurance, Anthem, and Medi-Cal, added layers of administrative and legal complexity.
The need to demonstrate the long-term impact of the client’s injuries and the resulting financial losses also required meticulous documentation and expert testimony, demanding a comprehensive and strategic approach from the legal team.
Case Outcome
Despite the challenges, GJEL Accident Attorneys secured a $300,000 settlement for the client, ensuring compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and the long-term impact of the accident. This settlement was achieved through strategic negotiation and persistent advocacy, avoiding the need for a potentially lengthy and costly trial.
The outcome reflected a fair assessment of the client’s injuries and the significant disruption to his life, providing him with the financial means to address ongoing medical needs and mitigate the impact of lost income.
Importantly, the settlement also served as a recognition of the client’s suffering and a measure of accountability for the negligent driver who caused the collision. The resolution allowed the client to focus on his recovery and future, rather than being burdened by prolonged legal battles.
Attorney’s Statement
“Our client was an experienced motorcyclist who was simply following traffic laws when he was cut off. We fought to ensure he received the compensation he deserved.” — Andy Gillin, Attorney at GJEL Accident Attorneys.
This case highlights the severe consequences of negligent driving and the importance of skilled legal representation for motorcyclists injured in traffic collisions. GJEL Accident Attorneys’ successful $300,000 settlement for a veteran who suffered life-altering injuries demonstrates the firm’s dedication to advocating for their clients’ rights.
Despite facing challenges such as disputed liability and complex medical issues, GJEL’s attorneys diligently pursued compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and the long-term impact of the accident. This outcome underscores the firm’s commitment to ensuring injured motorcyclists receive the justice and financial support they deserve.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, particularly one involving disputed liability or severe 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 understand the unique challenges faced by motorcyclists and are committed to helping you secure the compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life. Let us help you navigate the legal process and ensure your future is protected. Call us at +1 415-986-4777 or visit our Sacramento office for free legal consultation.
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.