Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
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Our Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Stand With You Through The Legal Process
Motorcycle crashes can happen in an instant. These incidents often lead to serious injuries, damage to property, and even death. If you or a loved one has been involved in one, our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help you explore your legal options. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for your free initial consultation.
Motorcycle accidents can result from various factors. However, according to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), the majority of collisions involving other vehicles happen because the other drivers do not see the motorcyclist. This leads to disastrous situations like right-of-way violations, sideswipes, and head-on collisions.
Our personal injury lawyers represent all victims of a motorcycle accident. Arash Law offers experience and knowledge in handling your claim. We can walk you through the legal process and help you understand every step. Our Bakersfield personal injury law firm, focusing on motorcycle accidents, is also committed to helping you pursue compensation.
Settlement on the first day of trial against governmental entity for dangerous construction conditions on a local street that caused a motorcycle accident – largest motorcycle settlement in Los Angeles for 2019 – client suffered shoulder injuries– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Do I Need An Attorney For My Motorcycle Accident?
The legal process following motorcycle accidents in Bakersfield can be complex. Moreover, you may also have to negotiate with insurance companies. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Bakersfield can provide legal guidance. Aside from that, we can help you with the following:
- Provide information, answer your questions, outline your legal options, and explain the next steps.
- Examine the motorcycle crash and gather the evidence that can support your claim.
- Collect documents like your medical records and other proof of your injuries.
- Represent you and advocate for your rights in any settlement negotiations with insurance companies.
- Take your motorcycle injury claim to court if needed.
Why Hire Our Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyers For Your Claim
Arash Law is committed to handling personal injury claims, including those related to motorcycle accident cases. We take the time to assess how the incident impacts your life. Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Bakersfield can help you pursue compensation for your losses.
More than that, our law firm offers:
- Accessibility — You can reach us at any time to discuss your case. If you can’t come to our office, we can work around your schedule to meet with you online or go to your location.
- Experience — Our Bakersfield personal injury attorneys have years of experience in the industry, helping clients pursue compensation for their losses.
- Compassion — Arash Law believes in compassionate service for all our clients and accepts cases on a contingency fee basis. Our lawyers don’t get paid unless we obtain compensation on your behalf. Nevertheless, certain case costs may apply regardless of the outcome, and we will clarify this to you during our meeting.
- Transparency & Commitment — We are committed to advocating for your rights and helping you pursue compensation. Our team will keep you informed about the progress of your case, helping you fully understand your situation and what to expect moving forward.
During your free initial consultation, our attorneys will answer any questions you may have about your motorcycle accidents in Bakersfield. We will guide you on your potential options for moving forward.
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists often get into traffic accidents because of the other driver’s negligence on the road. Motorcycle incidents might also involve pedestrians. Here are the common causes of motorcycle accidents that our injury lawyers in Bakersfield can handle:
Driving Under The Influence (DUI)
Alcohol consumption and drug use can significantly impair judgment and motor coordination. While under the influence of these substances, drivers might find it difficult to operate their vehicles and react to traffic events safely. Whether they’re driving passenger cars, trucks, or motorcycles, they pose a serious risk on the road.
If a drunk driver injures you, our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers can help. We can gather evidence to establish their wrongful actions.
Speeding Vehicles
Drivers who are going too fast cannot stop in time to avoid a collision. They could also lose control of their vehicles and collide with cars, motorcycles, pedestrians, and property. Because higher speed equates to greater impact, a speeding vehicle crashing into a motorcycle could result in devastating injuries for the rider.
Improper Or Illegal Turning
While speeding causes the majority of road accidents, improper turning causes the majority of fatalities. A motorcyclist can be severely injured or killed if a car cuts them off during an illegal U-turn or improper left-hand turn. The NHTSA also reported that 43% of fatal motorcycle-vehicle accidents in 2021 happened while the vehicles were turning left and the motorcycles were going straight.
Failure To Yield The Right-Of-Way
Drivers fail to give way to motorcyclists for three main reasons: negligence, ignorance of the law, or inability to see them. They might misjudge how far a motorcycle is ahead of them when turning or forget to look closely enough.
Arash Law’s motorcycle accident attorneys in Bakersfield also handle failure-to-yield injury claims. We will look into the other driver’s traffic law violations to build your case.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Other vehicles can drive around and avoid roadway defects such as potholes, loose gravel, uneven shoulders, debris, and fallen trees. Motorcyclists, regrettably, are unable to do so as quickly or easily. The government body responsible for maintaining these roads might face liability for these accidents. On private roads, the property owner could also be at fault.
Driving Distractions
Drivers need to give their full attention to the road at all times. The chances of causing a motorcycle accident increase when drivers engage in distractions other than driving. Such common behaviors include:
- Texting and driving
- Eating or drinking
- Chatting with passengers
- Fiddling with the radio
- Personal grooming
Distracted drivers may fail to hit the brakes or make an effort to avoid a collision with a motorcycle. They might not notice motorcyclists at all, even those who are lawfully following the traffic rules.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
In a motorcycle accident, the victim may suffer a range of injuries, from road rash and fractures to brain and spinal cord injuries or even death. According to a report by the NHTSA, motorcyclists are five times more likely to sustain injuries in a collision than vehicle occupants. One major reason is the lack of a metal structure to protect them. This is why our motorbike accident lawyers in Bakersfield emphasize the importance of seeking immediate medical care after such incidents.
Here are some common injuries our motorbike accident victims sustain:
Road Rash
Victims of minor motorcycle accidents may develop road rash, which occurs when the skin’s outermost layer is scraped against the road or other surfaces. Some injuries heal completely in a few weeks, but more serious cases may need surgery.
Regardless of the severity of your injuries, you may be able to seek compensation for any medical expenses and inconveniences. Speak with our motorcycle accident lawyer in Bakersfield to understand your options.
Bone Fractures
Fractures in the lower extremities are common injuries among motorcyclists. Broken wrists or arms are also prevalent, as the riders frequently use them to break a fall. Severe fractures, like those of the spine or skull, are also possible.
Head And Brain Injuries
High-impact collisions can knock riders off their bikes, potentially injuring their heads if they hit the ground or another hard object badly. The brain and skull may sustain severe or irreversible damage, which could result in long-term or lifetime disabilities. Ideally, your claim must reflect these factors.
Neck And Back Injuries
The neck and back also commonly incur damage upon impact with another vehicle. Victims may sustain injuries like:
- Whiplash
- Sprains
- Fractures
- Herniated discs
Spinal cord injuries are among the serious consequences of accidents, especially for riders and pedestrians. For example, the victim’s spine may be severed if a car runs over them or pins them to another vehicle. Even minor cases can cause chronic pain, while some severe conditions may lead to paralysis below the site of injury.
Wrongful Death Claims
Motorcycle crashes can have devastating effects, including death. The NHTSA report also revealed that in 2021, they were about 24 times more likely than passenger car occupants to be involved in fatal accidents. That year, the fatality rate for motorcyclists was 60.03 per 100,000 registered vehicles nationwide. This is the highest among all vehicle types, which means riding a motorcycle is riskier than driving a car.
If you lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, our wrongful death lawyers can help explore your legal options in pursuing compensation.
Potential Compensation For Motorcycle Accident Victims
As a victim, your claim can include compensatory damages if another driver’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident. Our lawyers will help you pursue payment for your current and future economic and non-economic losses.
Here are the things you could pursue after a motorcycle accident in Bakersfield:
- Hospital bills and other medical costs
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Physical pain
- Emotional suffering
In very rare cases, the court might also award punitive damages. These serve both as punishment and a preventive measure to avoid similar cases from happening again. Talk to our motorcycle accident attorneys in Bakersfield to learn what you may be able to pursue.
Who Is At Fault In A Motorcycle Accident?
Multiple parties can be at fault in a motorcycle accident in Bakersfield. Examples are:
- Passenger Car or Truck Drivers — These drivers are more often liable in multi-vehicle accidents, especially in cases of improper or illegal turns. They could also be held liable if they are distracted or intoxicated while driving.
- The Motorcycle Rider — If the motorcyclist does not exercise due diligence while driving, they might collide with other vehicles or hit pedestrians.
- The Bike Manufacturer and Dealership — A vehicular defect or malfunction can also cause accidents involving motorcycles. The manufacturer can be held responsible for injuries or fatalities suffered due to a faulty part. Dealerships that sell defective units can also be held liable.
- The Government — The government shares liability in a motorcycle accident if it happens on damaged or defective public roads. The responsible agency might also be held liable if it failed to provide adequate measures, like working traffic lights.
- Other Third Parties — A motorcycle crash could also involve another individual or company, such as the landowner of the property where an accident occurred because of a hazard. If an at-fault driver was on the job when the collision happened, their employer might also be held liable.
If you don’t know whether another party is to blame for your losses, our personal injury lawyers, who handle cases involving motorcycle accidents in Bakersfield, can help. We can assist you in identifying potentially liable parties and pursuing compensation for your damages. Fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form, and we’ll reach out to you to discuss your case.
Comparative Negligence Law In California
The state of California follows pure comparative negligence. Under this premise, all victims have the right to claim compensation, even if they are up to 99% at fault. Under this legal doctrine, all parties who contributed to the accident will be responsible for compensating the victim. The court will review the cases and assign a percentage of fault to each one.
In motorcycle accident claims, you have to gather enough evidence to prove that another party is negligent. Cases get more complicated when the defendant, who is responsible for the accident, counterclaims that you are also partially responsible. And when the other party succeeds, your compensation will be reduced.
For example, if the court decides that you are 20% liable, you may only be able to pursue 80% of the total damages. Our Bakersfield attorneys can advocate for a fair assessment of liability by gathering crucial evidence to support your motorcycle accident case.
How Much Do I Need To Hire A Lawyer For My Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Arash Law takes on cases on a contingency fee basis. We will not get paid unless we obtain compensation for you in a settlement or court award. Our legal fees will depend on several factors, such as the complexity of the case. However, certain case-related costs may still apply regardless of the outcome. We’ll discuss this arrangement during our onboarding process.
Auto v. Motorcycle – At first glance, the evidence seemed to be unfavorable to our severely injured client. The police report had placed him at fault for the crash. He was alleged to have been under the influence and speeding on his motorcycle. And he lacked motorcycle insurance subjecting him to California’s Prop 213, barring him from recovering damages for pain and suffering. Benny and his team, however, were able to prove that the truck driver violated his training and his company’s policies and procedures and made an exceptionally dangerous turn that contributed to the collision. Had the turn been made safely, the crash would not have occurred.– BENNY KHORSANDI
Statute Of Limitations For A Motorcycle Accident Case
Typically, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is two (2) years from the date of the accident. Motorcycle accident claims in Bakersfield also follow this rule. However, there are a few exceptions. For example, if the injury is not diagnosed right away, the deadline would be adjusted from the date of its discovery. If the claim is filed against a government agency, the timeframe is shortened to only six (6) months.
If you need help filing a claim within the deadline, speak with our Bakersfield lawyers after your motorcycle accident.
What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident In Bakersfield
To protect your well-being and rights after a motorcycle accident in Bakersfield, here’s what our lawyers recommend you do:
- Stay Calm and Check Your Injuries — Assess your condition first before checking on others. If possible, move away from traffic to avoid further incidents.
- Call 911 — Emergency responders will send the local authorities to help secure the scene. The police’s official report is a valuable piece of evidence for your case.
- Seek Medical Attention — When the paramedics arrive, allow them to give you a medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be immediately visible, but these medical professionals are trained to spot them.
- Gather Evidence — Take pictures and videos of the scene and collect information from the people involved, including witnesses. Note down their name, address, and contact number, as well as other relevant information.
- Go to the ER — Go to a hospital after your motorcycle accident. They have the equipment to assess the extent of your injuries properly. Even minor collisions could have severe consequences, even if they don’t present any initial symptoms.
- Consult With Our Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyers — We can assess the validity of your claim and communicate with insurance companies on your behalf. Our lawyers can help you understand what your legal options are based on the specifics of your case.
The Dangers Of Motorcycle Accidents In Bakersfield And Kern County
Kern County is mostly a safe place for motorcycles. However, there were 249 motorcycle accident injuries and fatalities in 2022, which accounts for 2% of all motorcyclist fatalities and injuries in California. In Bakersfield, there were 67 instances, accounting for 29% of all recorded incidents in the county.
Crash statistics from the NHTSA reveal that there were 5,932 people killed in motorcycle accidents in the United States in 2021. This number contributed to 14% of all traffic fatalities that year. It was also the highest number of deaths recorded since 1975. Around 24% of fatal collisions involved crashing into fixed objects.
The data also offers additional details about when and where motorcycle accidents happen:
- Motorcycle accidents happen more frequently on urban roads. Surprisingly, most of the recorded instances happened on non-intersection and non-interstate roads.
- The majority of the recorded accidents happened during the day (57%), in clear or cloudy weather (97%).
- Almost half (42%) of the motorcyclists who died in motorcycle crashes at night were alcohol-impaired.
- 51% of all U.S. motorcycle fatalities in 2021 occurred on a weekday, while 49% occurred on a weekend.
It is important to practice defensive driving at all times to avoid motorcycle accidents. Stay out of blind spots and take extra caution when lane splitting. If you are ever injured in an accident, don’t hesitate to use our online form to reach out to the Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers In Bakersfield
Let our team handle the legal complexities of your case so you can focus on healing. Our attorneys can help you pursue compensation based on your losses. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to get a free, no-obligation initial consultation with our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers.
We also serve motorcycle accident victims in Lost Hills, Lakeview, Stallion Springs, Molave, Reefer City, Shatter, Twin Oaks, Tehachapi, Golden Hills, Maricopa, Valley Acres, Grapevine, Bear Valley Springs, Fuller Acres, and McFarland.
