Trusted Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Sadly, motorcycle accidents are common in Sacramento, California. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), in 2020, there were 542 motorcyclists injured and killed in Sacramento County. Motorcycle accident victims often suffer from serious injuries, costly medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you were seriously injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced personal injury lawyer in Sacramento to discuss your legal options.
At Alpha Accident Lawyers, we are dedicated to helping injured motorcycle riders obtain justice. We maintain a 99% success rate and will fight tirelessly to recover the compensation you deserve. Call our Sacramento law office today to schedule a free consultation today.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can result from a variety of factors, including recklessness and environmental factors. Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include the following:
Speeding
Speeding is a leading cause of auto accidents across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHSTA), approximately 28% of fatal traffic accidents are speeding-related. Excessive speed reduces the time a motorcyclist has to react to changing road conditions or obstacles.
In speeding crashes, the injuries and damages are typically more severe due to the different traveling speeds and force of impact. Unfortunately, motorcycle riders often sustain serious or even fatal injuries due in high-speed motorcycle accidents.
Distracted Driving
When motorists engage in non-driving activities while behind the wheel, they put themselves and others at risk. Distracted driving can include behaviors such as texting and driving, eating or drinking, or conversing with a passenger. According to the NHSTA, drivers are distracted by their cell phones about 10% of the time while they drive.
Driving Under the Influence
When motorists drive under the influence it significantly impacts their vision, cognition judgment, and reaction time. In 2021, there were 13,384 people who lost their lives in drunk-driving crashes. Each day, about 37 people are killed in drunk-driving accidents across the United States. Even people who have a blood alcohol level of .02 can experience some loss of judgment, divided attention, and a decline in visual functions.
Driving while impaired is dangerous and a crime in California with great consequences. Did you know the average cost of a DUI is over $10,000? Penalties can also include up to 6 months of jail time, a license suspension of 4 months or more, 3 to 5 years of DUI probation, and more.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving can include speeding, tailgating, weaving through traffic, and running red lights.
Left-Turn Accidents
Motorcycles are often struck by vehicles making left turns at intersections due to the motorist's misjudgment of the biker's speed or failure to see them. If a motorist intends to turn left, they must yield to incoming traffic. Therefore, if a motorcycle rider is riding straight through a green light, he or she has the right-of-way.
Dooring
When motorists park their vehicles along a street, they need to be careful not to open their doors in the path of oncoming traffic. Per Vehicle Code 22517, “dooring” is illegal in California. This means that a motorist shall not open a vehicle door on the side available to moving traffic. In a dooring accident, the motorist who opened to oncoming traffic can be held liable.
Road Hazards
Road hazards like potholes, cracks, missing or inadequate signage, and debris are dangerous for motorcyclists because they can lose control of their bikes. If the motorcycle crash was caused by poor road maintenance, the city, or local municipality can be held liable for the resulting damages.
Lane Changes
Drivers failing to check blind spots or using turn signals before changing lanes can collide with motorcycles.
Pure Comparative Negligence in Motorcycle Accident Cases
In motorcycle accident cases, California law follows the legal doctrine of pure comparative negligence. This legal principle assesses the degree of fault of each party involved in the California motorcycle accident and determines the amount of compensation each party can recover based on their level of liability.
Comparative negligence acknowledges that both parties involved in an accident can share some degree of fault. Compensation is then awarded proportionally based on each party's contribution to the accident. For instance, if a motorcyclist is found 15% liable for the accident and the other driver 85% liable, the motorcyclist's compensation will be reduced by their 15% share of fault.
The Burden of Proof in a Motorcycle Accident Case
There are 4 essential elements that a plaintiff must establish in a personal injury claim. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help injured motorcycle accident victims collect vital evidence and prove the other party's liability.
The Duty of Care
All road users must exercise a duty of care for themselves and others. The duty of care is a legal responsibility for motorists to operate their vehicles in a safe and responsible manner.
The Breach of The Duty of Care
A breach occurs when a party fails to fulfill their duty of care. For example, a driver not yielding to a motorcyclist who has the right-of-way would be considered a breach of duty.
Causation
Causation establishes the direct connection between the breach of duty and the resulting motorcycle crash injuries.
Damages
Damages refer to the injuries, losses, and expenses incurred due to the motorcycle accident. A motorcycle accident victim may recover compensation based on the extent of these damages.
How Can a Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorney Help My Case?
Motorcycle accident claims are complex in part because the insurance company can make it difficult for injured bikers to recover the compensation they deserve. Insurance adjusters are well-trained to find reasons to offer a low settlement or deny a personal injury claim entirely. Sacramento motorcycle accident lawyers will protect your rights and help you in the following ways:
- A motorcycle accident lawyer will provide legal advocacy and guidance throughout the process.
- Motorcycle accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a compelling case.
- An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- We will determine the true value of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We assess the full scope of your damages to ensure you're not shortchanged by the insurance company's initial offer.
- A motorcycle accident attorney will represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
Common Injuries Sustained in Sacramento Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Road rash – Abrasions and skin injuries are caused when a motorcycle rider slides on the road's surface.
- Fractures – Broken bones, often in the limbs, wrists, and collarbones.
- Head injuries – Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can range from concussions to more severe cognitive impairments.
- Spinal injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or long-term disabilities.
- Internal injuries – Organ damage and internal bleeding due to impact or blunt force trauma.
What Evidence Do I Need for My Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Gathering proper evidence is crucial for a successful motorcycle accident claim. A Sacramento motorcycle accident attorney can help you obtain the following kind of evidence:
- Photos and videos – CCTV footage of the motorcycle accident scene, damages, and injuries.
- Medical bills – Documentation of medical expenses related to injuries sustained in the motorcycle accident.
- Paystubs – Proof of lost wages due to missed work during recovery.
- Police reports – Official reports detailing the circumstances of the motorcycle crash including all of the parties involved.
- Medical records – Documentation of motorcycle injuries, treatments, and prognosis from medical professionals.
- Witness statements – Testimonies from individuals who witnessed the motorcycle accident.
- Expert witnesses – Professionals who can provide expert analysis on accident reconstruction, engineering, mental health, or medical conditions.
- Other expenses related to the motorcycle crash – Receipts for transportation, caregiving, or other accident-related costs.
How We Deal With the Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies after a motorcycle accident can be complex, but an experienced attorney will deal with personal injury matters and the insurance company on your behalf. Injured motorcycle riders may face biases such as that motorcycle riding is inherently more dangerous.
People who believe this bias, tend to assume that the motorcycle rider must have caused the accident. The other driver's insurance company may try to use this bias against the injured biker and assign blame. Our motorcycle accident attorneys will gather all of the necessary evidence to prove the other party's liability. We are well-prepared to take your case to court to fight for your rights and fair compensation.
START YOUR FREE CONSULTATIONGet the Medical Treatment You Deserve
Receiving immediate medical treatment is crucial after a motorcycle accident. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it's best to get a medical evaluation. Injuries that are left untreated, can worsen over time and result in more complications.
Ensure you follow the treatment plan prescribed by healthcare professionals. Keep records of medical appointments, treatments, medications, and expenses related to your injuries. Our Sacramento motorcycle accident attorneys can connect you with the top medical specialists in the greater Sacramento area.
We Offer No-Obligation, Free Consultations
We understand the challenges injured victims experience after a motorcycle accident. Our personal injury law firm offers no-obligation, free consultations. We'll review the details of your motorcycle accident case, provide an initial assessment, and address any concerns or questions you have about the claims process.
Contact us to learn more about our contingency fee arrangement and free consultation.
Contact Alpha Accident Lawyers in Sacramento
Our personal injury law firm is located at 1201 J St Suite 337, Sacramento, CA 95814.
Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If you've been involved in a Sacramento motorcycle accident, don't hesitate to reach out to our experienced legal team. Our personal injury attorneys specialize in motorcycle crash claims and understand the intricacies involved.
At Alpha Accident Lawyers, we're committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. Let our motorcycle accident attorneys handle the legal complexities while you focus on your recovery and well-being. Contact us today for a dedicated and reliable legal representation.
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