Santa Cruz Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
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Turning Injured Victims Into Victors With Our Santa Cruz Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Motorcyclists, renowned for their adventurous spirit on the open road, are aware of the heightened risks of riding their two-wheeled vehicles. It is an undeniable truth that these thrill-seekers face a significantly increased risk of sustaining severe injuries in the unfortunate event of a crash. Their exposed bodies leave them more vulnerable to the harsh impact of an accident. If negligent drivers cause your injuries, contact Arash Law’s Santa Cruz motorcycle accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form on our website to seek fair compensation.
Motorcycle accidents often result in significant medical expenses and other losses that can have a lasting impact on the individuals involved. It’s disheartening to see how insurance companies often go to great lengths to avoid fulfilling their obligations concerning the compensation for injured motorcyclists. One of the tactics they frequently employ is blaming the riders for the unfortunate accidents they have been involved in.
In the event that you find yourself in this circumstance, the guidance of Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., can be instrumental in aiding you to secure the complete compensation rightfully owed to you. Our expertise lies in conducting thorough investigations into motorcycle accidents, enabling our Santa Cruz motorcycle accident lawyers to assist you in making the at-fault party accountable for the damages you suffered.
Settlement in a bicycle versus taxi cab company accident; client suffered lower leg injuries– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
How Can Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Santa Cruz Help to Prove My Case?
The Santa Cruz motorcycle accident attorneys at Arash Law bring extensive experience in representing motorcyclists facing catastrophic injuries. Our legal team understands motorcyclists’ unique challenges and is well-versed in investigating accidents to establish liability. We work diligently to prove your case, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for the injuries and losses you’ve endured.
Experienced motorcyclists know that, despite following road rules, other road users might not be as attentive to them. Pullouts and left turns in front of bikers are common accident scenarios. Despite holding a valid California motorcycle license, defensive driving is essential, as demonstrated by motorcyclists who are trained to be exceptionally vigilant.
Santa Cruz motorcycle accident lawyers are important in establishing your case’s validity when highway safety rules are violated. Even seemingly minor collisions can lead to catastrophic injuries for motorcyclists, including fractures, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, or even wrongful death.
Rely on our Santa Cruz motorcycle accident lawyers to champion your cause, advocating for your rights and providing expertise to maximize your recovery.
Why Choose our Santa Cruz Motorcycle Accident Attorneys for your Claims?
California, celebrated as a motorcycle-friendly state, boasts the highest number of registered motorcycles in the nation due to its favorable weather and expansive landscapes. Whether in Santa Cruz or other California cities, motorcyclists often encounter substantial bias following accidents, impeding their pursuit of compensation.
If you’re looking for good Santa Cruz motorcycle accident lawyers near you, look no further. Arash Law is dedicated to championing the legal rights of motorcyclists, combining passion and professionalism to achieve excellence in our representation. For insights into how our motorcycle accident lawyers in Santa Cruz can help, we encourage you to reach out for a complimentary consultation.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Santa Cruz
As per the National Safety Council (NSC), motorcycles make up less than 3% of all registered vehicles in the U.S. and contribute to less than 0.6% of the total miles traveled. Despite this fact, in 2021, they accounted for 14% of traffic fatalities, 17% of occupant fatality rates, and 3% of occupant injuries.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported an 8% increase in motorcycle-related deaths from 2020 to 2021 despite a 2% decline in the rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. Over the last decade, motorcycle-related deaths have risen by 19%, surpassing the 29% increase in vehicle death rates. While it is somewhat reassuring to see a decline in the rate of deaths per vehicle miles traveled, the overall increase in fatalities is still cause for concern.
Motorcycle injuries or fatalities pose significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges to the affected biker or their family. In the unfortunate event of a motorcycle accident, seeking guidance from Santa Cruz motorcycle accident attorneys should be your top priority. They advise ensuring that your compensation adequately covers the injury’s current and future costs and damages.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Santa Cruz
Dealing with what happens after a motorcycle accident needs a careful plan to keep you safe and make sure your rights are taken care of. If you or someone you know is in a big accident caused by someone else’s mistake, here are some important steps to follow:
- Assess Personal Injuries First. Before attending to others, conduct a self-check for injuries. Prioritize seeking immediate medical attention for any injuries identified.
- Move to a Safe Location. Relate to the side of the road or another secure area while waiting for authorities to arrive. This step contributes to everyone’s safety.
- Maintain Composure, Avoid Admitting Fault. Stay composed and refrain from admitting fault. This precautionary measure helps protect your legal standing.
- Avoid Settling with the Other Driver. Resist the temptation to settle directly with the other driver. It’s crucial to report the accident to the police, ensuring an official incident record.
- Gather Pertinent Information. Collect as much relevant information as possible, including the other driver’s name and insurance details. This data forms a foundational part of your case.
- Document the Scene. Capture photographs of any evidence relevant to the accident. These visual records serve as key supporting elements for building a strong case.
- Organize Documents and Information. Streamline all accident-related documents and information into a dedicated folder. This organized approach facilitates smoother legal proceedings.
- Consult with Santa Cruz Motorcycle Accident Lawyers. Engage in a discussion about your vehicle accident with our reliable Santa Cruz motorcycle accident lawyers. For a complimentary consultation, reach out to Arash Law at (888) 488-1391. Our legal experts are here to guide you through the process and ensure your rights are protected.
Who is Responsible for My Motorcycle Accident in Santa Cruz?
Before individuals under the age of 21 obtain a DMV permit for motorcycles, it is a legal requirement for them to complete an approved safety training program successfully. Additionally, all motorcycle drivers must adhere to the regulations outlined in the California DMV motorcycle handbook.
Motorists should be driving their vehicles responsibly and complying with traffic laws. When drivers breach these laws or act carelessly, it constitutes negligence. In the event that negligence results in an accident, drivers can be held accountable for injuries sustained by motorcyclists.
To determine the responsibility for a motorcycle accident, insurance companies deploy a team of lawyers to minimize potential financial settlements, prioritizing their interests over those of the accident victim. Motorcycle accident lawyers in Santa Cruz play an important role in gathering and assessing evidence from the accident scene, including surveillance camera footage, police reports, eyewitness statements, and photographs taken at the time of the incident. Medical records, expert testimony, and accident reconstruction carry substantial weight in presenting a case to judges and juries. Your attorneys can help you secure all of these.
Santa Cruz motorcycle accident lawyers recognize the significance of a thorough investigation to determine who should be made accountable based on the roadway conditions at the time of the incident and a detailed examination of the motorcycle itself and the driver’s protective gear. In order to hold the responsible party accountable for a motorcycle accident, legal representation should be carefully chosen. Experience is paramount in effectively highlighting the extent of economic damages, such as medical bills, loss of income, and rehabilitative care. Choose Arash Law to provide you with a plan for a favorable resolution for your claim.
Proving Negligence Following Motorcycle Accidents in Santa Cruz
California operates as an at-fault state, meaning that the party responsible for an accident is also financially liable for the resulting injuries and damages. However, in numerous accidents, multiple parties may share fault. In California, the allocation of liability is governed by comparative fault rules, determining the percentage of fault attributed to each involved party. This, in turn, influences the compensation that injured parties can seek.
Given the potential for varied perceptions and viewpoints regarding fault in an accident, the involvement of Santa Cruz motorcycle accident attorneys becomes imperative. They understand the law and the methods to establish liability after an accident.
Dealing With An Insurance Company After a Motorcycle Crash
Insurance companies often capitalize on prevalent stereotypes depicting bikers as reckless and hazardous drivers, unfortunately finding success with this strategy. What adds to the unfortunate aspect is the efficacy of such tactics.
Should the insurance company’s legal team manage to persuade a jury that your motorcycle operation was reckless, a substantial portion of the fault may be attributed to you. Given California’s comparative negligence system, the more responsibility assigned to you, the less compensation the insurance company is obligated to provide.
You need not endure this injustice. Our Santa Cruz motorcycle accident attorneys can construct a compelling case grounded in evidence that reveals the actual cause of the crash. By minimizing your assigned percentage of fault, we strive to maximize the level of your financial compensation.
Common Causes and Types of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists face heightened vulnerability on the road due to the absence of protective features such as airbags, steel frames, and seat belts. Bikers are particularly susceptible to severe injuries when other motorists exhibit negligence or carelessness. Common acts of negligence contributing to motorcycle accidents include:
- Speeding – Excessive speed, whether by the motorcyclist or another driver, diminishes reaction times and elevates the risk of accidents.
- Unsafe Lane Changes – Failure to check blind spots during a lane change can conceal a motorcyclist from view, escalating the likelihood of a collision.
- Impaired Driving – Driver impairment from drugs or alcohol compromises the safe operation of any vehicle.
- Sudden Stops – Whether a motorcycle stops abruptly and is rear-ended or another vehicle stops unexpectedly, both scenarios pose significant dangers.
- Dangerous Left-Hand Turns – Misjudgments in speed or oncoming traffic distance during a left turn can lead to one of the most dangerous accidents for motorcyclists.
- Lane-Splitting – While illegal in many states, California permits lane-splitting, where a motorcycle maneuvers between two lanes of traffic. This practice has contributed to numerous unfortunate motorcycle accidents.
- Unsafe Road Conditions – Poor road conditions and inadequate safety signage during road maintenance can create hazardous situations for motorcyclists.
Regardless of the accident’s cause, seeking compensation for injuries can be overwhelming without the guidance of experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Santa Cruz. Arash Law provides legal representation specific to your needs.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
In the United States, a staggering 80 percent of motorcycle-involved crashes result in injuries to riders, ranging from minor to catastrophic. The heightened exposure of motorcyclists often leads to serious injuries, even in what would be deemed minor accidents for occupants of traditional passenger vehicles.
Common injuries sustained by motorcyclists, even in seemingly minor accidents, include:
- Road Rash – Road rash refers to abrasions and skin injuries caused by friction between the rider’s skin and the road surface during a motorcycle accident.
- Fractures – Motorcyclists often suffer bone fractures in accidents, ranging from minor fractures to more severe breaks, depending on the impact and force involved.
- Burns – Burns can result from contact with hot surfaces, fluids, or ignited materials during a motorcycle accident, causing varying degrees of skin damage.
- Catastrophic, Life-Altering, and Permanently Disabling Injuries – This encompasses a broad category of severe injuries that have profound and lasting impacts on the individual’s life, often leading to permanent disabilities.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Traumatic brain injuries result from a sudden impact on the head, potentially causing cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.
- Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can lead to loss of sensation, motor control, and other functions, with varying degrees of severity.
- Paralysis – Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part of the body, often resulting from spinal cord injuries, and can be partial (paraplegia) or total (quadriplegia).
- Disfigurement – Disfigurement involves alterations to one’s physical appearance due to injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.
- Vision Loss – Vision loss may occur due to eye or head trauma during an accident, leading to partial or complete vision loss.
- Internal Organ Damage – Injuries to internal organs, such as the liver, kidneys, or lungs, can occur due to the impact sustained in a motorcycle accident.
- Amputations – Severe accidents may lead to the loss of limbs, necessitating amputations for the affected individual.
Recovering from the physical and emotional challenges posed by motorcycle accident injuries is challenging. Seeking the legal guidance of Santa Cruz motorcycle accident lawyers is critical to ensure fair compensation for your injuries following an accident.
Settlement in a motor vehicle accident; client suffered internal injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Compensation For Accident Damages
To facilitate your recovery and regain normalcy, you need to secure financial compensation for injuries and damages sustained in a Santa Cruz motorcycle accident. The extent of compensation you may be entitled to depends on various factors, including the accident’s circumstances, the nature of injuries, and the determination of fault. Compensatory and non-compensatory damages that may be applicable include:
- Medical Costs, Surgical Costs, Hospital Bills – Covering expenses related to medical treatments, surgeries, and hospitalization necessitated by the accident.
- Medications or Other Medical Supplies – Reimbursing costs incurred for necessary medications and medical supplies during recovery.
- Rehabilitation, Physical, and Occupational Therapies – Compensation for the expenses associated with rehabilitation and therapy to aid recovery
- Lost Wages – Replacing income lost due to the inability to work during recovery.
- Lost Future Earning Capacity – Addressing the impact on your ability to earn income in the future due to the accident.
- Pain and Suffering – Compensating for the physical and emotional distress endured as a result of the accident.
- Future Medical and Life Care After a Debilitating Injury – Anticipating and addressing the ongoing medical and life care needs arising from severe injuries.
Typically, these are determined by the at-fault party’s insurance company. However, insurance benefits can be subjective and may not fully cover the costs associated with the injuries. This is particularly challenging when dealing with prominent insurers focused on maximizing profits. Consequently, an injured motorcyclist may need to advocate for fair and sufficient compensation to meet the expenses incurred.
Negotiating with large insurance companies can be a daunting task, especially for individuals grappling with the repercussions of devastating injuries. This is where our Santa Cruz motorcycle lawyers’ guidance and legal expertise are invaluable. If satisfactory negotiations are unattainable, your motorcycle accident attorneys are prepared to escalate the case to court, ensuring that you receive fair and just compensation for the injuries you have endured.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is My Motorcycle Accident Case Likely to Go to Trial?
The overwhelming majority of motorcycle accident cases within Santa Cruz seldom proceed to trial; many are resolved through settlements before the scheduled trial date. Cases are more prone to head to trial when there’s a disagreement over the facts or a contested legal matter.
The meticulous construction of your case significantly enhances the likelihood of reaching a consensus with the opposing party regarding the robustness of your evidence, facilitating an appropriate settlement.
In one of our recent motorcycle accident case results from July 2021, our client suffered spinal and wrist injuries. We were able to secure a $1,550,000 settlement in this motorcycle versus rideshare company accident—the largest motorcycle settlement in Tulare County.
How Long Will It Take to Settle My Motorcycle Accident Case?
It varies based on the unique circumstances of each case. There are instances that we can resolve some cases in a matter of weeks without resorting to formal litigation. Conversely, certain cases may need the initiation of a lawsuit. In this case, it may be extended over several years before reaching a resolution. The majority of our Santa Cruz cases typically fall within an intermediate timeframe. The nature of your case also determines its duration. As the plaintiff, you exert influence over the case’s length by deciding whether to accept or reject settlement offers.
Is There A Deadline For Filing A Claim?
Yes. Each state establishes “statutes of limitations,” determining the timeframe within which a motorcycle accident injury claim must be filed. In Santa Cruz and the rest of California, you are allotted two years to initiate a lawsuit against a private individual or company. However, if your claim involves a government-owned vehicle or employee, the filing window is reduced to six months.
Do I Need Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Santa Cruz, Or Can I Settle On My Own?
Opting for the help of a lawyer, particularly in serious cases, proves advantageous in several ways. Firstly, insurance companies are inclined to provide more generous compensation when motorcycle accident lawyers represent you. This is rooted in the acknowledgment that they understand the actual value of a case, discouraging insurers from proposing insufficiently low settlements to avoid the potential costs and complexities associated with a lawsuit.
Furthermore, the presence of legal representation can trigger provisions that facilitate significant reductions in your medical bills. Some medical providers may even find themselves restricted from pursuing reimbursement directly from you in specific scenarios.
How Much Does Hiring Santa Cruz Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Cost?
Personal injury attorneys handle motorcycle accident cases on a contingency basis, signifying that you bear no upfront costs. You only incur charges once you receive compensation. Importantly, if your case is unsuccessful, you are not financially obligated.
Given the numerous variables that can impact the ultimate recovery in a successful personal injury case, it is advisable to seek the guidance of motorcycle accident attorneys at Arash Law for an accurate assessment of the total potential value of your claim.
Contact The Top-Rated Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Santa Cruz Trusts
Following a motorcycle accident, victims have to recognize the potential for unfair treatment, given the prevailing bias against motorcyclists in both the insurance industry and the legal arena. Regrettably, there exists a tendency among police officers and insurance adjusters to presume liability when motorcyclists are involved in accidents. This bias may undermine your chances of receiving equitable compensation for your injuries.
Arash Law is dedicated to upholding the rights of injured individuals and their families. With our support, we aim to relieve you of the burdens associated with legal proceedings, allowing you to focus on recovering from your injuries. We offer a no-cost, no-obligation case evaluation to discuss your situation and clarify your rights after a significant motorcycle accident. We are confident in delivering results after securing more than $750 Million for our valued clients.
Under the leadership of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., Arash Law is a reputable legal firm catering to individuals throughout California, extending to neighboring Santa Cruz areas, including Paradise Park, Pasatiempo, Soquel, Live Oak, Twin Lakes, Capitola, and Pleasure Point. Our dedicated team of Santa Cruz motorcycle accident lawyers is available around the clock, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to ensure you have the support you need.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers can offer insights into your legal rights, and the sooner you choose us, the faster Arash Law can gather essential information and evidence for your case. Contact our firm today at (888) 488-1391. Start your legal journey with us to receive the top-notch legal service you rightfully deserve.
