Merced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
California attorney represents riders injured in crashes
California is a haven for motorcyclists, offering scenic routes, diverse terrain and year-round riding weather. However, bikers must share the roads with other vehicles, which makes for an ever-present danger of accidents. Motorcycles are particularly vulnerable to collisions and other mishaps, being less visible and more prone to loss of control. What’s more, bikers often suffer serious injuries due to their lack of bodily protection. If you are hurt while riding, you can count on the help of a Merced motorcycle accident lawyer at Curry and Curry to hold the at-fault parties liable and help you win compensation.
Top causes of motorcycle accidents in California
Motorcycle accidents can result from any of the following conduct by other vehicles’ drivers:
- Failing to notice nearby motorcycles
- Unsafe lane changes
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Other types of negligence
Still other factors can contribute to accidents, such as road hazards, sharp curves, inclement weather, limited visibility at night and mechanical failures, including tire blowouts.
Determining liability for a motorcycle accident claim
No matter what other factors may be involved in a crash, it is possible to hold other drivers liable to the extent they are at fault. Determining potential liability requires fully investigating the accident and the actions and omissions of everyone involved. We are experienced at analyzing the physical evidence in these cases, and we call upon accident reconstruction experts where needed.
Defense counsel typically try to shift most of the fault onto motorcyclists, whom they accuse of unreasonable risk-taking behaviors. However, a rider who is partly to blame may still recover partial damages for injuries suffered. Also, failure to wear a U.S. DOT-compliant motorcycle helmet as required by state law does not defeat a claim for damages, though it may reduce the amount recoverable.
Common injuries in motorcycle accidents
Motorcyclists involved in accidents often suffer serious injuries, such as:
- Head and brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Broken bones
- Road rash
Identifying the extent of your injuries requires full medical evaluation by physicians as well as expert analysis of how the harm you suffer will affect your life.
Compensation options for victims of motorcycle accidents
If you can prove another party’s fault for your accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional anguish and loss of quality of life. We will work to assemble evidence that can maximize the compensation you obtain, both in settlement negotiations and at trial if necessary.
How a motorcycle accident lawyer can help
You should not delay in contacting a lawyer if you are injured in a motorcycle accident. In California, you have only two years to file a personal injury lawsuit and only six months to file a claim if the defendant is a governmental agency or its employee. We will promptly begin an investigation to gather evidence, determine the causes of your accident and identify those liable, as well as to document your injuries. We will bring insurance claims against all potentially responsible parties. If a defendant’s insurance company fails to make a settlement offer in good faith, we will proceed with litigation. We will work zealously to obtain the maximum damages available, either during settlement negotiations or in a jury trial.
Contact a skilled California motorcycle accident attorney about your claim
Curry and Curry in Merced represents injured victims of motorcycle accidents throughout California. To arrange a free initial consultation, please call 209-720-3912 or contact us online.
