Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident in LA?

Taking the right steps after a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles is crucial to protecting your health and legal rights. Here’s what you should do to strengthen your claim:

• Seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries may not immediately show symptoms.
• Call 911 to report the accident to the Los Angeles Police Department and request emergency assistance if necessary.
• Document the scene by capturing photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and visible injuries.
• Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver and gather details from any witnesses.
• Avoid admitting fault or providing statements to insurance companies without first consulting a lawyer.
• Contact our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in Los Angeles to review your case and safeguard your rights.

At Thompson Law, we are here to guide you through every step of the process. Call us today for a free consultation, and let us handle the legal work while you focus on your recovery.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Los Angeles

Motorcycle accidents in Los Angeles frequently result from negligence or unsafe practices by drivers or motorcyclists. Common causes include:

• Distracted driving, such as texting, using GPS, or eating, diverts attention from the road and increases the risk of accidents.
• Speeding, particularly on high-traffic highways like the I-5 or 405, reduces reaction time and escalates the severity of crashes.
• Lane splitting, while legal in California, requires drivers to be vigilant and share the road responsibly with motorcyclists. Failing to do so often leads to accidents.
• Failure to yield, especially at intersections, is a frequent cause of motorcycle collisions.
• Improperly loaded cargo, when carried on motorcycles or other vehicles, can result in tipping or loss of control.
• Mechanical failures, such as brake issues, tire blowouts, or inadequate maintenance, can lead to dangerous situations on the road.
• Inexperienced drivers, whether on motorcycles or in other vehicles, may struggle to safely navigate Los Angeles’s busy streets and freeway systems.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs severely impairs reaction times and decision-making, contributing to serious accidents.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by any of these factors, our Los Angeles motorcycle wreck lawyers are ready to investigate your case thoroughly. We’ll work diligently to secure the compensation you need to recover and move forward.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in LA

The size and weight of motorcycles can make accidents especially severe, often resulting in serious injuries such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries, where head impacts lead to concussions, memory loss, or long-term cognitive difficulties.
• Spinal cord injuries, which may cause partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life.
• Broken bones and joint injuries, including fractures in limbs or ribs, often requiring surgeries and extended recovery periods.
• Internal injuries, such as organ damage or internal bleeding caused by the collision’s force, which can be life-threatening without immediate medical attention.
• Burn injuries, resulting from fires or chemical exposure, frequently requiring skin grafts and extensive medical treatment.
• Amputations, where the impact of the crash causes traumatic limb loss, creating life-altering challenges.
• Psychological trauma, including conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and emotional distress, which are common after major accidents.

If you’ve sustained any of these injuries in a motorcycle accident, our legal team is here to help you pursue compensation for medical treatment, rehabilitation, and any necessary long-term care to support your recovery.

Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents happen for various reasons, often due to negligence or unsafe conditions. Here are some of the most common types of motorcycle crashes in Los Angeles:

• Head-on collisions – Drivers of cars and trucks often fail to notice motorcycles on the road, leading to head-on collisions. These crashes are particularly dangerous for motorcyclists due to the lack of protection and the high speeds often involved.
• Left-turn accidents – When making left turns, drivers often focus on oncoming cars and fail to see motorcycles traveling straight, overtaking, or passing other vehicles. This type of accident frequently occurs at intersections.
• Speeding-related crashes – Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes, increasing the likelihood of a collision. Speeding is a factor in a significant number of motorcycle crashes, both for motorcyclists and other drivers.
• Driving under the influence – Alcohol or drug impairment affects reaction times, decision-making, and overall vehicle control, making DUI a common cause of severe motorcycle accidents.
• Unsafe lane changes – Drivers who fail to check their blind spots while changing lanes can collide with motorcyclists, who are harder to see due to their smaller size.
• Road hazards – Uneven pavement, potholes, loose gravel, and other hazards are more dangerous for motorcycles than for larger vehicles. These conditions can cause a rider to lose control or be thrown from their bike.
• Distracted driving – Drivers texting, eating, or engaging in other distractions may fail to notice motorcycles, leading to preventable collisions.

Each of these types of accidents presents unique risks to motorcyclists. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, our Los Angeles lawyers are here to help. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.

What Compensation Can Motorcycle Accident Victims Recover?

Motorcycle accident victims in Los Angeles may be entitled to compensation for a range of damages to help them recover physically, emotionally, and financially. These include:

• Economic damages
  • Medical expenses for emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatments.
  • Lost wages due to time missed from work and reduced earning capacity for the future.
  • Property damage for repairing or replacing your motorcycle and other belongings.
  • Out-of-pocket costs such as transportation, home modifications, or caregiving assistance.
• Non-economic damages
  • Pain and suffering caused by physical injuries and emotional trauma.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life, including the inability to participate in hobbies or daily activities.
  • Emotional distress, such as anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Punitive damages
  • In cases of extreme negligence, such as reckless driving or DUI, punitive damages may be awarded to penalize the at-fault party and deter similar behavior.

At Thompson Law, we understand the challenges motorcycle accident victims face and are dedicated to pursuing maximum compensation for your recovery. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on healing. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case.

Who is At Fault in a Motorcycle Accident?

Determining fault in a motorcycle accident is crucial for seeking compensation. In Los Angeles, several parties could share responsibility based on the circumstances of the crash:

• The other driver is often at fault for actions such as distracted driving, speeding, driving under the influence, or failing to yield, all of which commonly lead to accidents.
• Motorcyclists may bear some responsibility if they are speeding, riding recklessly, or failing to follow traffic laws, which can reduce compensation under California’s comparative fault rules.
• Vehicle manufacturers can be held accountable if a defect, such as faulty brakes or tires, contributed to the accident.
• Government agencies might be liable if poor road maintenance, missing signage, or hazardous road conditions played a role in the crash.
• Third-party companies, such as trucking or delivery services, may be responsible for negligent hiring, inadequate vehicle maintenance, or unsafe policies that caused the accident.

At Thompson Law, we thoroughly investigate your case by analyzing police reports, witness accounts, accident scene evidence, and expert testimony to identify all liable parties.

How to Prove Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident Case

To prove negligence in a motorcycle accident case can be more complex than it seems, even when the fault appears clear. Without the right legal expertise, important details may be missed. Our experienced Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers carefully review all evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.

Key elements of negligence in a motorcycle accident case include:

• Duty of care. Drivers and other involved parties have a legal obligation to operate vehicles safely, follow traffic laws, and take reasonable precautions to prevent harm to others on the road.
• Breach of duty. We must show that the responsible party, such as another driver, trucking company, or manufacturer, failed to meet this obligation through actions like speeding, reckless driving, ignoring safety rules, or poor vehicle maintenance.
• Causation. It is essential to establish that the negligent actions directly caused the accident and resulted in your injuries or losses.
• Damages. We document the full scope of your physical, emotional, and financial damages, including medical records, bills, lost wages, and evidence of how the accident has affected your daily life.

We will build a compelling case to seek the full compensation you deserve. Contact our LA motorcycle accident lawyers today to learn how we can help you.

How Can Our Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Help?

At Thompson Law, our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers have the skills and track record to handle even the most complex cases. We are dedicated to thoroughly investigating your accident to uncover the facts and determine who is responsible. From start to finish, we guide you through the legal process while keeping you informed about your rights under California law.

To build a strong motorcycle accident case, we gather and examine key evidence, including:

• Statements from eyewitnesses.
• Official reports from the Los Angeles Police Department.
• Your personal account of the accident.
• Testimony from accident reconstruction and industry experts.
• Medical records and documentation of your treatment.
• Footage from surveillance cameras or dashcams.
• Photographs and videos of the crash site.
• Maintenance logs and records for the motorcycle involved.

Every motorcycle accident case is unique, and our comprehensive knowledge of California laws and regulations allows us to tackle even the toughest claims. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Why Choose Thompson Law

Choosing the right legal team for your motorcycle accident case is essential to achieving the best possible outcome. At Thompson Law, we are dedicated to delivering exceptional service, support, and results for motorcycle accident victims in Los Angeles. Here’s why you can count on us:

• You pay nothing upfront. We work on a contingency fee basis, so we only get paid if we win your case and recover compensation for you.
• With over $1.9 billion recovered for our clients, we have the expertise to achieve successful outcomes.
• Starting your case is simple. Contact us anytime to speak with a lawyer right away. You can sign up easily from your smartphone or computer, and we’ll begin working on your case immediately.
• We’re available 24/7. Accidents can happen at any time, and our team is always ready to provide the help and guidance you need.
• Every client matters to us. We offer compassionate, personalized care and keep you informed throughout every step of your case.
• Language is never a barrier. Our bilingual team ensures Spanish-speaking clients have full access to legal assistance.

At Thompson Law, we are committed to securing the full compensation you deserve. From investigating the accident and negotiating with insurance companies to preparing for trial if necessary, we take care of every detail so you can focus on your recovery.

Don’t wait. California law sets strict deadlines for filing a claim after a motorcycle accident. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident?

Yes, you can still file a claim. While not wearing a helmet may affect the compensation amount for head injuries, it does not eliminate your right to seek compensation for other damages. California follows a comparative negligence rule, which means your recovery may be reduced based on your level of fault.

What should I do if the other driver involved in the motorcycle accident is uninsured?

If the other driver is uninsured, you may still recover compensation through your uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, if included in your policy. An attorney can help you navigate this process and explore additional avenues for compensation.

What types of evidence are important in a motorcycle accident case?

Key evidence in motorcycle accident cases includes police reports, medical records, eyewitness testimony, photos and videos of the accident scene, traffic camera footage, and expert testimony from accident reconstruction specialists.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle accident?

Yes, California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which allows you to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. Your settlement will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you were found 20% at fault, you would still receive 80% of the awarded compensation.

What if the motorcycle accident was caused by a hazardous road condition?

If hazardous road conditions, such as potholes, debris, or poorly designed intersections, caused the accident, you may be able to file a claim against a government entity responsible for maintaining the road. These cases are complex and require meeting specific deadlines, so contacting an attorney immediately is crucial.