Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Santa Monica CA
It should come as no surprise that there are so many motorcycle enthusiasts in the state. Who doesn’t love a road trip along scenic California roads? However, ensuring your safety when sharing the roads with other vehicles is more important than ever. The potential of a crash with a distracted or speeding driver is high. Defensive driving is becoming the norm on our roads. If you are in a crash, a Santa Monica, CA motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the financial compensation you may be entitled to. The legal team at Cohen Law Group, P.C. has successfully advocated for hundreds of motorcycle accident victims and knows that the potential for severe injuries can be devastating, both physically and financially, for the victims and their families.
According to national statistics, there are approximately 6,000 motorcyclists killed each year. Drivers routinely fail to observe other vehicles on the same roads.
If you have been severely injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another driver, part of your recovery is not just medical but also monetary. Medical costs are extremely high, so to be awarded a settlement to assist with these expenses is your legal right. Retaining the services of a Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyer to help you navigate the legal system is an important part of your recovery from the crash.
What Are the Most Common Injuries Motorcycle Accident Victims Suffer?
Since there is no barrier around a person on a motorcycle that acts as a buffer between them and another vehicle when there is a motorcycle crash, there is often some type of injury suffered. Some of the most common we see here at our firm include the following:
Head and Neck Injuries
It is critical that all riders wear a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet. However, even with a helmet, many riders still sustain injuries to their head and neck. Concussions, hemorrhaging of the brain, and other types of brain injuries are fairly common. Even if a rider is fortunate enough to walk away from an accident, they should still have a doctor check them out since symptoms of brain injuries are often delayed.
Organ and Other Internal Injuries
Internal bleeding and organ damage are also injuries that can have delayed symptoms but can be fatal if not detected in time. They are also common motorcycle accident injuries.
Spinal Cord Injury
The spinal cord plays a critical role in how signals from the brain reach our limbs and other parts of the body. A spinal cord injury can be devastating, resulting in paralysis, loss of mobility, and loss of sensation. It is also a common motorcycle accident injury.
Road Rash
When a rider is thrown from their motorcycle in a crash, they usually slide along the road, causing a “rash” on the skin. Road rash is painful and often causes complications, like infections, that can inhibit overall recovery. Many victims end up needing skin grafts but are still left with permanent scarring.
Contact a Santa Monica Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
At Cohen Law Group, P.C., we know that the injuries motorcycle accident victims sustain often leave them with permanent disabilities that not only create physical limitations but also result in significant financial losses. Call our office today to schedule a free case evaluation with a seasoned Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyer and find out what legal recourse you have to obtain financial justice for the losses you have suffered.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Santa Monica, California, can be caused by various factors, including driver error that causes a Santa Monica car accident. Other factors include road conditions and environmental factors. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Santa Monica are Driver error. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence or reckless behavior of other drivers on the road. Common examples include distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Poor road conditions such as potholes, uneven surfaces, or debris on the road can cause motorcycle accidents. These hazards can cause a motorcyclist to lose control of their bike, leading to a crash.
Adverse weather conditions such as rain, snow, or fog can significantly reduce visibility and traction, making it challenging for motorcyclists to control their bike. Strong winds can also affect a motorcycle’s stability, especially on highways or other open roads. Defective parts such as brakes, tires, or steering components can lead to a motorcycle accident. Manufacturers can be held liable for accidents caused by defective parts in the motorcycle.
To avoid motorcycle accidents in Santa Monica, motorcyclists should always wear appropriate safety gear, obey traffic laws, and be aware of their surroundings. Drivers of other vehicles should also be aware of motorcyclists on the road and give them sufficient space and respect their rights.
Types of damages that you may be able to recover in a motorcycle accident claim
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Santa Monica, California, and the accident was caused by the negligence or fault of another party, you may be entitled to recover damages for your losses. Some of the types of damages that you may be able to recover in a motorcycle accident claim include:
- Medical expenses: This includes the cost of any medical treatment you received as a result of the accident, including hospitalization, surgeries, medication, and therapy.
- Lost wages: If you were unable to work due to the injuries you sustained in the accident, you may be able to recover the wages you lost during your recovery period.
- Property damage: If your motorcycle or any other property was damaged in the accident, you may be able to recover the cost of repairing or replacing it.
- Pain and suffering: This includes physical and emotional pain and suffering you experienced as a result of the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If the accident has affected your ability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed, you may be able to recover damages for this loss.
- Punitive damages: In some cases, if the responsible party’s actions were particularly egregious or reckless, you may be able to recover punitive damages to punish the party for their behavior.
It is essential to consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in personal injury law to determine the specific types of damages you may be entitled to recover in your particular case.
Statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit
In California, there is a statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit. The statute of limitations is a legal time limit within which a lawsuit must be filed. If you do not file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires, you may lose your right to pursue legal action.
In California, the statute of limitations for a motorcycle accident lawsuit is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, there are some exceptions that could either shorten or lengthen this time limit. For example:
If the responsible party is a government agency, you may have to file a claim with the government within six months of the accident before filing a lawsuit.
If the injured person was a minor at the time of the accident, the two-year time limit may not begin until the minor turns 18 years old.
It is important to note that every case is unique, and there may be other factors that could affect the statute of limitations in your particular case. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a qualified attorney who specializes in personal injury law to understand better the time limits that apply to your case and to ensure that you file your lawsuit within the required time frame.
Motorcycle Accident Law FAQs
What should I do after a motorcycle accident in Santa Monica?
After an accident, seek medical attention immediately, report the accident to the police, and document the scene with photos. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer to protect your rights.How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Santa Monica?
In California, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. It’s best to consult a lawyer as soon as possible.What compensation can I receive after a motorcycle accident?
You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages.Who is liable in a Santa Monica motorcycle accident?
Liability depends on the specifics of the accident. A lawyer can help determine if another driver, manufacturer, or even the city is responsible.Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault for the motorcycle accident?
Yes, California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your compensation may be reduced.How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in Santa Monica?
Most motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case.What types of injuries are common in motorcycle accidents?
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, such as broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, road rash, and spinal cord injuries.How can a Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyer help with my case?
A lawyer can help by investigating the accident, negotiating with insurance companies, and fighting for the maximum compensation you deserve.
Contact Injury Law Firm Santa Monica Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Santa Monica, California, and have suffered injuries, damages, or losses due to someone else’s negligence or fault, it is advisable to seek the assistance of a qualified attorney who specializes in personal injury law. Injury Law Firm, a reputable law firm in Santa Monica, can provide you with the guidance and support you need to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages.