Glendale Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
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Glendale Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Get Compensation For Your Injuries
A motorcycle accident in Glendale can change someone’s life in an instant. If you or your loved one is suffering injuries from a motorcycle crash caused by another person, Arash Law is here to provide legal support. Call our Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 to protect your rights.
Glendale is currently the fourth-largest city in Los Angeles County after Los Angeles, Long Beach, and Santa Clarita. According to the 2023 United States Census, Glendale had a population of 187,050 on July 1, 2023, with 68.6% of that population being white alone, 18.9% being Hispanic or Latino, 13.7% being Asian alone, 7.1% being two or more races, and 1.8% being Black or African American alone.
The city is located in the Verdugo Mountains, south of the San Gabriel Mountains. The San Gabriel Mountain Range’s southern side is almost completely urbanized and includes cities like Pasadena and La Cañada Flintridge and unincorporated communities like Altadena, La Crescenta-Montrose, and Sunland-Tujunga in Los Angeles. Glendale is predominantly a land area, as only 0.43% of the total land area is water.
While motorcycle riding is a popular mode of transportation in Glendale and the rest of California, it also carries inherent risks. Motorcycle accidents can turn people’s lives upside down. If you’ve been seriously injured in this type of incident, you need someone who will fight to protect your rights and ensure you can recover all the financial compensation you are entitled to. Do not risk underestimating your injuries or compensation. Ensure you have skilled attorneys handling your case.
At Arash Law, we are committed to helping injured motorcyclists obtain the compensation they need and deserve. Expert legal representation can make a world of difference in these types of cases. Contact us today!
How Motorcycle Accident Attorneys In Glendale Can Help
Arash Law is one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California. That means you’ll benefit from our industry-recognized attorneys’ experience and skills. We also have abundant resources, including a network of experts we can tap to prepare your claim. Here’s what we do to help and support motorcycle accident victims:
- Protect Your Rights — As soon as you hire us, we commit to protecting your rights and seeking justice. We won’t settle for anything less than full and fair compensation.
- Build A Compelling Case — Our legal team will thoroughly investigate your accident to determine what actually happened. If needed, we’ll hire accident reconstructionists to help us better understand the incident. We’ll identify all liable parties and gather evidence to present a compelling case to the insurer, judge, or jury.
- Manage All Communications — We’ll handle all communication pertinent to the case so you can focus on your healing and recovery. Our Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers will negotiate with the insurance providers and discuss with the at-fault driver and other parties.
- Meet All Deadlines — California implements strict deadlines for personal injury and wrongful death claims after a traffic accident. The Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) 335.1 states that you only have two years to file these types of claims. Otherwise, you’re forfeiting your right to claim for damages.
- Navigate, Negotiate, And Litigate — You can count on our motorcycle accident attorneys in Glendale to handle the process of obtaining compensation for your damages. We can expertly negotiate with the insurance companies and litigate if we fail to reach a fair settlement agreement. Call us today at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
Largest motorcycle settlement in Tulare County in 2021; client suffered spinal and wrist injuries.– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Many variables are at play in motorcycle accidents, and some of them will be much easier to prove than others. The most common causes of motorcycle accidents our Glendale lawyers have encountered include:
Dangerous Left-Hand Turns
A left turn is always one of the most dangerous maneuvers a motor vehicle can perform because it often requires crossing two opposing lanes of traffic. When a driver does not correctly gauge the speed or distance of a motorcycle, a left-turn collision is more likely to happen.
Poor Road Conditions
California roads are not always professionally maintained, so motorcyclists may encounter various road issues that may impact their ability to control their vehicles. Among the most dangerous types of road conditions are pavements in disrepair (like on La Crescenta Avenue), fallen trees, poorly lit roads, dangerous intersections, improperly marked curves, unsafe curbs, loose gravel, wheel ruts, potholes, construction, and other road conditions.
Head-On Crashes
Head-on accidents are less common but more deadly because they involve two vehicles colliding head-on. Such accidents are often the result of one driver going the wrong way, but there may be other possible causes.
Lane-Splitting Accidents
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) notes that lane-splitting by motorcyclists is legal in California, but intentionally blocking or impeding a motorcyclist in ways that can cause harm to the rider is illegal. Opening a vehicle door on the side of moving traffic or “dooring” is also illegal.
Lane-splitting remains a risk for motorcyclists and can result in fatal accidents. It occurs when a lane-splitting motorcycle gets too close to vehicles beside it, a car suddenly tries to shift lanes and does not notice a motorcyclist, or a car suddenly opens one of its doors into the motorcyclist’s path.
Reckless Driving And Intoxication
Drugs and alcohol remain a common factor in too many California motorcycle accidents, and it may be the motorcyclist or another driver who was under the influence. Reckless driving under California Vehicle Code § 23103 involves a person driving a vehicle on a highway in willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.
Deadly Intersections
While motorcycle crashes may happen anywhere in Glendale, certain roadways in the city are more often the location for collisions than others. Some of the intersections that are well-known for being more accident-prone include:
- Brand Boulevard and Goode Avenue.
- Sanchez Drive and North Brand Boulevard.
- East Colorado Street and South Brand Boulevard.
- West Glenoaks Boulevard and Western Avenue.
- North Glendale Avenue and East Wilson Avenue.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you shouldn’t get overly focused on the cause. Take the time to find Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers as soon as possible. Our Glendale injury law firm will work on investigating your accident and determining your best options for recovering compensation.
Common Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents In Glendale, California
The significance of motorcycle accident injuries continuously varies by case. Therefore, some people will deal with their injuries for only a few days, while others might experience years of recovery.
While statistics show that motorcycles make up only 3% of all registered vehicles in the United States and 0.7% of all vehicle miles traveled, motorcyclists still account for 14.6% of all traffic fatalities and 3.5% of all injuries in 2022.
Frequent injuries motorcyclists suffer in Glendale motorcycle accidents include the following:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken Bones Or Fractures
- Severe Lacerations
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Internal Organ Damage
- Facial Trauma
- Significant Disfigurement
- Road Rash
- Wrongful Death
Injuries Due To Motorcycle Helmet Defects
Amputations, burns, broken limbs, and burn injuries are the most common motorcycle accident injuries. However, spinal cord injuries and brain injuries are usually the most severe. Defects on motorcycle helmets may result in grave facial injuries and brain damage.
These injuries often result in massive hospital costs and long-term or permanent disabilities, including permanent brain damage, paralysis, and paraplegia. The hospital bill for motorcyclists with facial or brain injuries can reach upwards of $75,000. Many victims are unable to pay such mounting bills, leaving them with escalating debt.
With the help of experienced Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers, you may be able to receive compensation from the negligent party, including the helmet manufacturer and others. Contact us today at (888) 488-1391.
Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident?
Possible Liable Parties In A Motorcycle Accident Case
The following are some of the most common examples of parties who can be liable in a motorcycle accident:
- Other drivers involved in a crash are the most common liable parties in motorcycle cases.
- It is also possible for the owners of the other vehicles, when they are different from the drivers, to be liable for damages.
- Trucking companies or truck owners can be liable for truck accidents caused by their drivers.
- Manufacturers of motorcycles may be liable for accidents stemming from defective motorcycle parts.
- Mechanics of motorcycles can be liable when a motorcycle accident results from a failed repair.
- Government entities responsible for maintaining a road may be liable in a motorcycle or car accident caused by dangerous conditions like potholes.
Determining Liability In A Motorcycle Accident
Liability related to a motor vehicle accident does not need to be overly complicated. Still, insurance companies usually penalize motorcyclists simply based on the type of vehicle they are driving. The result is that motorcyclists’ actions on the road are often called into question, leading investigators to incorrectly assume that a particular action was taken for no good reason.
At Arash Law, we know how hard it can be for riders to get a fair deal after a motorcycle accident. This is why we also work closely with our clients to ensure they understand our progress on their cases. Our Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers firm will check the initial police report, but we also know how flawed these initial assessments can be. We will work with experts to get real answers when they prove to be elusive.
Most of our work will be time spent convincing an insurance company that its client was at fault for a motorcycle accident. We will use facts, evidence, and expert testimony to prove the driver was to blame for the collision. If we can’t reach a settlement, we won’t hesitate to take your case to court.
Make no mistake: when a person says they are moving toward a trial, an insurance company will become much more willing to negotiate a more lucrative settlement for an injured person. The idea of comparative negligence in California complicates calculations in these situations because an insurance company might think that it has sufficient evidence to allocate a sizable percentage to a motorcycle accident victim. However, a judge or jury usually makes the ultimate determination.
Most motorcycle accident cases involve only one wrong decision by other drivers, and that one choice can be enough to cause an entire crash. Work with well-known Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers who will take the time to get to the bottom of what happened in your accident. We will help you prove that another party was at fault should your case end up in court.
Types Of Damages You Can Recover After A Motorcycle Accident
Helmets are generally the first thing that many people, including insurance companies, think of when inquiring about injuries in connection with a motorcycle accident. California Vehicle Code § 27803 requires all riders and passengers to wear a United States Department of Transportation (DOT) compliant helmet when riding a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle.
If a person was not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, an insurance company is more likely to deny compensation. However, keep in mind that everyone can file injury claims in California, regardless of whether they were wearing a helmet.
Victims can recover various forms of damages in a motorcycle accident case. With Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers on your side, you are assured that your claim will include all damages you sustained due to the incident. Call us today at (888) 488-1391 so we can discuss your case.
Some of the most common kinds of damages people can receive may include, but are not limited to:
- Medical Expenses — After an accident, you should be able to seek medical help without worrying about the bills. You may be compensated for the costs of medication, treatments, hospitalization, doctor visits, rehabilitation, and other medical expenses.
- Property Damage — If your motorcycle or any other property, such as a helmet or cellphone, was broken due to the accident, you may recover the costs of repairing or replacing them.
- Lost Income — You may get compensated for the wages you lost if the injuries you sustained prevent you from working. This will help you maintain financial stability as you recuperate from your injuries.
- Loss Of Enjoyment Of Life — If your injuries from the accident prevent you from participating in activities or hobbies that interest you, you may seek compensation for diminished quality of life.
- Pain And Suffering — You may claim damages for the emotional pain and mental suffering you experience due to the accident.
Understanding The Statute Of Limitations For A Glendale Motorcycle Accident
All personal injury actions involve time limits for how long people can file their cases. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations. California has a two-year statute of limitations for claims resulting from motor vehicle accidents, meaning that people cannot file claims after two years have passed.
California does allow for certain exceptions to the statute of limitations. For example, an injured minor will have two years to file once they turn 18 years of age, and a person who is unable to file their claim because of a medical condition (such as being in a coma) may have their deadline tolled until they recover.
Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers can help calculate the exact deadline for filing your claim. They will also ensure your claim is filed within the statute of limitations.
What Riders Need To Do After Being In A Glendale Motorcycle Accident
Victims should take certain steps at the scene of motorcycle crashes to help protect their rights and make the claims process go more smoothly. Among the things you should do are the following:
Check For Injuries And Call 911
If you can, find a safe place, possibly by the side of the road, to check yourself for injuries. Observe for bruises, wounds, or other signs of injury. Be prepared to describe any injury to the emergency dispatcher.
If you need emergency assistance, call 911 to report the accident. Calling this number will dispatch authorities to the scene of your crash to compile a report. The police report often proves invaluable in these cases because it is the independent view of a third party not connected to a crash.
Preserve Evidence
Taking photos or videos of the accident scene from varying angles and distances will greatly help your Glendale motorcycle accident attorney. Be sure to get pictures of your injuries while they are at their worst, but also look for skid marks on the street, road defects, traffic signals, and any other circumstances that might help prove how an accident happened.
Exchange Information
All parties involved in any motor vehicle accident in California will want to be sure they exchange their personal information with all other drivers. You need to obtain people’s names, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance information.
When you are exchanging this information with another driver, do not comment on your accident or make any kind of admission of fault. Try to limit your comments to only the information you are exchanging.
Gather Witnesses’ Contact Details
If other people witness the accident, get the contact information of these parties. Witnesses are extremely invaluable to personal injury cases because they can offer unbiased views of what occurred.
When witnesses are uncomfortable giving you their information, ask police officers for assistance. A witness may be more willing to give their name and phone number to a police officer.
Inform Your Insurance Provider
Your insurance policy may require you to report any accident immediately in order to file a claim. Keep it short and stick to the facts.
Many people feel the urge to talk about the accident they were just involved in, but you need to be especially cautious when it concerns social media. Many insurance companies will quickly investigate the social media profiles of people involved in motorcycle accidents. Anything you say that harms your case on a social media website can be used against you.
Seek Medical Attention
Everyone involved in motorcycle accidents should visit a hospital for a complete evaluation of their condition, even when people do not think they suffered an injury. It is important to remember that many serious injuries involve delayed symptoms, so people may not be aware of how hurt they are until several days later.
Medical treatment is also necessary for any claim you file because insurance companies usually demand proof that an injury was treated after an accident. Insurers will try to deny claims if you wait a few days or weeks before consulting a doctor, arguing that the injury may be related to an after-accident event.
Consult A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer In Glendale
If you suffered severe injuries from a motorcycle accident, it’s best to consult a lawyer in Glendale specializing in motorcycle accident claims. They will communicate and negotiate with insurance companies. Our Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers will handle all the legwork so you can focus on recovering. Call us today at (888) 488-1391.
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
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reported that motorcycle fatalities decreased by 9.4% in 2019, and motorcyclist deaths from not wearing a helmet decreased by 18% that year. In its 2023 Highway Safety Plan, the California Office of Traffic Safety reports that 539 motorcycle deaths occurred in 2020, a 9.8% increase from 491 in 2019.
OTS also reported the following facts:
- The counties with the highest fatal injuries among motorcyclists are Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Kern, and Sacramento.
- The counties of Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Orange, Kern, Sacramento, and Alameda County had the highest number of severe injuries among motorcyclists.
- The rural counties with the highest rates of fatal injuries per capita by county include Lassen, Colusa, Amador, Calaveras, Tuolumne, Napa, and San Benito.
- The counties with the highest rates of critical injuries per capita by county are Del Norte, Trinity, Sierra, Alpine, Calavera, Mono, Mariposa, and Inyo.
Furthermore, UC Berkeley’s Safe Transportation Research and Education Center (SafeTREC) reported that motorcyclists were 13% of the 4,285 traffic fatalities in California in 2021. There has also been an increasing trend in the number of motorcyclist fatalities in California from 2019 to 2021. Moreover, Los Angeles County recorded the most motorcycle accident fatalities (120) and serious injuries (821) in 2021 across California.
UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) recorded 22 motorcyclist fatalities and injuries in Glendale in 2023, the highest number for the past five years.
Statistics From The NHTSA
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) statistics show the following:
- In 2020, the 5,579 motorcyclists killed represented 14% of all traffic fatalities, the highest number of motorcyclists killed since the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) began in 1975.
- The number of motorcyclist fatalities in 2020 increased by 11% from 2019.
- Motorcyclist fatalities occurred nearly 28 times more frequently per vehicle miles traveled than passenger car occupant fatalities in traffic crashes.
- A greater percentage of motorcycle riders involved in fatal accidents in 2020 had alcohol impairment than other types of vehicle drivers.
- 57% of motorcyclists who died in 2020 in states without universal helmet laws didn’t wear helmets, compared to 11% in states with universal helmet laws.
The most recent report from the NHTSA showed the following:
- In 2022, 6,218 motorcyclists were killed, representing 15% of all traffic fatalities, representing an increase of 1% compared to the 6,143 in 2021.
- In 2022, motorcyclists (26.16) had a fatality rate almost 22 times higher than passenger car occupants (1.20) per vehicle miles traveled.
- In 2022, motorcycle riders had a significantly higher rate of alcohol impairment in fatal collisions (28%) compared to drivers of cars, trucks, or other vehicles.
- In states without universal helmet laws, 54% of motorcyclists who died in accidents in 2022 were not wearing helmets. Only 11% of fatalities involved helmetless riders in states with universal helmet laws.
Other Statistics
Bureau of Transportation statistics also show:
- In 2020, there were 5,620 motorcycle fatalities. In 2022, this increased to 6,218 deaths.
- In 2020, there were 82,662 injured people, less than in 2019.
- In 2020, 98,365 motorcycles were involved in crashes, the lowest number since 2015.
The OTS California Annual Report 2021 shows:
- In 2020, there were 35 unhelmeted motorcycle deaths compared to 28 in 2019.
- The percentage of motorcyclists at fault in injury crashes was 59% in 2020, higher than 54% in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019.
FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents
What If I’m Partially At Fault For The Motorcycle Accident?
If you are partially to blame for a motorcycle accident in Glendale, you can still file for a claim for your injuries. California has a pure comparative negligence law. Under this principle, a person who is 75% at fault for an accident can still recover 25% of the compensation. Even if you are 99% at fault, you can still get 1% of the compensation.
However, there is no getting around the simple fact that many insurance companies investigating motorcycle accidents are likely to conclude that motorcyclists were at fault for their crashes. Such a presumption is unfair. As a result, motorcyclists often have to fight insurers who believe motorcyclists were partially responsible for causing their injuries.
The bottom line remains that many insurance companies immediately assume that people being on motorcycles means they will also be more likely to operate recklessly. The facts do not support this belief, so it becomes even more critical for a victim to work with experienced Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers who know how to prove fault and minimize their liability.
What If I Wasn’t Wearing A Helmet During The Accident?
Not wearing a helmet while riding a motorcycle can lead to severe injuries and tragic deaths. However, if you’re concerned that not wearing a helmet during the accident can affect your claim, then the answer is that it does not have any bearing on the success of your case. The opposing counsel can, however, use this to decrease your settlement amount based on California’s comparative law. So you need the help of expert Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers to get the maximum compensation for your pain and suffering.
How Long Do I Have To File A Motorcycle Accident Claim?
The statute of limitations or the period of time a victim can file a claim is typically two years after the accident. However, certain factors may affect this time frame. In any case, hiring a lawyer as soon as possible will help you build a strong case against the negligent driver. Your motorcycle accident lawyers in Glendale can ensure your accident is investigated thoroughly, important evidence is collected before it is lost, and you file your claim way before the 2-year deadline.
What Is The Average Case Settlement Amount For Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accident settlements can range anywhere between a few thousand dollars to millions of dollars, depending on certain considerations. These factors include:
- Whether the injuries are minor, moderate, or severe
- Other losses caused by the accident
- Insurance coverage limits
- Whether the victim was partially at fault
Our Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers can review the facts of the case, help you calculate a fair settlement, and fight for your rights. Contact us to schedule a free case review.
How Much Compensation Do You Get For A Motorcycle Accident?
The total settlement amount depends on various factors, including the severity of the injuries sustained and the expertise of the Glendale motorcycle accident lawyer you’re working with. To give you a better idea of what to expect, in July 2021, Arash Law won the largest motorcycle settlement in Tulare. We obtained $1,550,000 for a client who suffered spinal and wrist injuries during a collision between a motorcycle and a rideshare vehicle.
How Long Does The Motorcycle Accident Claim Take To Settle?
Depending on the specifics of the case, the motorcycle accident claims process can be settled within a few months to several years. Cases involving large amounts of damages are more likely to have an extended timeline as the defendant may push back more, which may result in the case ending in court.
Furthermore, the medical treatment you need can also affect the duration of your settlement. You may be advised to wait to file a claim until your Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) has been reached. This will allow your Glendale motorcycle accident lawyer to prepare more accurate estimates of your financial damages.
How Can A Motorcycle Accident Attorney Help With An Insurance Claim?
Some victim believe that they can handle their claims on their own. They might think, “Do I really need a personal injury lawyer?” Although you are not legally required to hire one, a lawyer can significantly improve your chances of a successful claim.
Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers represent accident victims and their interests. They take the necessary steps — investigating, collecting evidence and witness statements, filing a claim, negotiating, and, if needed, taking the case to trial. As our firm focuses on maximizing the victim’s compensation, the injured party can focus on recovery and treatment.
How Much Does Hiring A Motorcycle Accident Attorney In Glendale Cost?
Our Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency basis. Under this arrangement, you don’t have to pay any upfront costs. You only pay once we have successfully obtained a settlement or court award. We usually charge between 33% to 40% of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t win, you don’t have to pay us anything.
Who Can File A Motorcycle Accident Claim In Glendale?
Any victim of a motorcycle accident in Glendale may file a claim for damages — whether they’re pedestrians, motorcyclists, or their passengers. Your age, gender, or immigration status does not affect your right to seek compensation.
I Can’t Speak English. Can I Still Hire A Glendale Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
You can still hire our Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers even if you can’t speak English. Our powerhouse team includes multilingual staff who can speak English, Korean, Arabic, Spanish, Farsi, and others. They can interpret for you, whether in phone calls, meetings, depositions, or even court appearances. We provide these additional services since we believe that language shouldn’t be a hindrance in your quest for justice.
Speak With Our Aggressive Glendale Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., knows that motorcycle accidents are never easy to recover from and can be even more difficult for people to recover compensation. Victims should not have to try as hard as they do to get the money they deserve to pay their bills. We work tirelessly to ensure that everyone we represent can achieve some measure of justice in their motorcycle accident case.
You can call (888) 488-1391 right now to schedule your initial consultation to let us review your case and discuss everything you need to do. Our Glendale motorcycle accident lawyers will be sure to take the time to thoroughly evaluate all the details of your case and help you understand all of the legal options that will be available to you.
Our Glendale accident lawyers offer comprehensive legal support and representation to injured victims. We handle cases involving slip-and-fall accidents, pedestrian accidents, bike accidents, and dog bites. Our car accident lawyers also help victims of Uber and Lyft collisions, hit-and-run accidents, and DUI accidents.
Arash Law also serves many surrounding areas of Glendale, including La Canada Flintridge, Burbank, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Pasadena, Alhambra, Altadena, San Gabriel, San Marino, Beverly Hills, Monterey Park, Commerce, East Los Angeles, and Rosemead.
