Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorbike crash is caused by several factors. Here are some common causes:

• Distracted Driving: Activities like using a phone or eating can distract drivers' attention, leading them to crash into motorcyclists, especially in heavy traffic.
• Unsafe Roads: Poor road conditions, such as potholes, debris, poorly designed intersection and a lack of signage, increase the risk of a crash.
• Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drug impairment increase the risk of an accident. DUI nearly leads of 29% of fatal crashes in California.
• Lane Splitting: While lane splitting is legal in Cali, it creates risk if the other motorists are unaware of the motorbike. It could complicate liability in case of an accident.
• Speeding: Operating a vehicle above the speed limit increases the chance of a severe accident, as higher speed reduces reaction time and ability to maneuver safely.

Motorcycle riders are not protected against injuries, and the results of a motorcycle accident usually involve catastrophic injuries. Typical injuries would include the following:

• Head injuries: Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries can occur, even with a helmet.
• Neck and back injuries: Strains, herniated discs, and other spine injuries can limit movement and cause lasting pain.
• Spinal cord injuries: Severe spine damage can lead to long-term mobility limits or paralysis.
• Broken bones: Fractures in the arms, legs, ribs, hips, or collarbone are common in rider crashes.
• Road rash: Skin abrasions from contact with the roadway can lead to infection and scarring.
• Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding or organ damage. Facial and dental injuries: Impacts can cause fractures, cuts, and dental trauma. Knee, shoulder, and wrist injuries: Joint and ligament injuries can require imaging, therapy, or surgery.

Yes. Lane splitting is legal in California and does not prevent a claim. However, it can affect liability, as insurance companies may assess whether the rider acted recklessly or another driver was at fault.

If the driver who caused the crash has no insurance or not enough to cover the loss, your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may apply. This coverage can help with medical bills, lost income, and other damages, but it often comes with notice requirements and specific policy rules.

Settlement timelines vary based on case details; it can take anywhere from a few months to several years. The timeline is decided by these factors:

• Medical Recovery: Settlement negotiations begin only after you reach Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). This ensures that you take all past and future medical costs into account in your settlement negotiations.
• Insurance Investigation: Insurance companies frequently cause delays in the settlement process because they must investigate the accident, gather evidence to support their investigation, and establish who is responsible for causing the accident.
• Case Complexity: The more complicated the claim is (multiple vehicles, serious injuries, or liability dispute), the longer it may take to settle. If a fair settlement cannot be reached and the claim goes to litigation or trial, the claim may take an additional year or longer to resolve.