Working With Injured Riders For More Than 20 Years
The San Diego and San Francisco areas are popular for motorcycle riders. Unfortunately, they are also common locations for serious motorcycle accidents. These can cause not only physical harm but also psychological trauma.
Our team at Rencher Law Group, P.C., works with riders who have lived through severe motorcycle crashes. With more than 20 years of experience and knowledge, we work tirelessly to help survivors recover fair and just compensation for their damages. If you have lost a loved one to a motorcycle accident, we can also help you file a wrongful death claim.
The Main Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents In California
It’s no surprise that motorists are commonly at fault in motorcycle accidents. In fact, according to one study, roughly 60 percent of motorcycle accidents are caused by cars.
Common causes of motorcycle crashes in California include:
- Driver inattention, frequently due to texting while driving
- Driver failure to check their blind spots before changing lanes
- Drivers turning left in front of motorcycles, misjudging their speed or distance
- Drivers speeding or going too fast for the conditions
- Poor visibility, especially in bad weather conditions or at night
- Intoxicated driving involving alcohol or drugs
- Poorly designed roadways or intersections
- Defective vehicle components or dangerous motorcycle design
The cause of the accident isn’t always obvious. A detailed investigation can uncover contributing factors that would otherwise have gotten overlooked. At Rencher Law Group, P.C., we dig deep to uncover all the causes of each accident to hold the right parties accountable.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Tragically, motorcycle crashes often lead to life-altering injuries such as:
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Back and neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Severe road rash
- Burns
These catastrophic injuries come with a significant financial toll. Our lawyers will help you pursue the compensation you need to have the financial resources for coping with your injuries.
The Steps To Take After A California Motorcycle Accident
The complex nature of motor vehicle crashes makes it imperative to follow as many of the following steps as you can:
- Call the police to have them file an accident report.
- Get the contact information and insurance information of any drivers or riders involved.
- Get the contact information of any witnesses.
- Seek medical treatment; call an ambulance, if necessary.
- Contact a lawyer.
- Do not discuss the accident with insurance representatives.
You need an attorney on your side to make sure that the insurance companies do not take advantage of you by offering a too-low settlement. You may also need an attorney to help you manage the complicated issues of insurance and liability.
Does No-Fault Insurance Cover Motorcycle Accidents?
Bikers in California are required to carry motorcycle insurance, which is separate from other auto insurance. It’s important to note that the minimum coverages required by law will not cover your own injuries and losses for an accident in which you’re at fault. For that reason, it’s wise to purchase additional collision coverage and MedPay to cover your damages in that event.
What If I Was Not Wearing A Helmet?
California law requires all motorcycle riders to wear a helmet. If you did not have a helmet on during your accident, you might not receive as much compensation as if you had been wearing one. This is due to our state’s comparative negligence laws, which assign a percentage of negligence to each party and issue financial compensation proportionate to liability.
Contact Us To Get 20-Plus Years Of Experience On Your Side
As a rider, many people will automatically assume that you are to blame for the accident, even if you are not at fault at all. At RLG, we can get you back the benefit of the doubt. Contact us for a free initial consultation with one of our lawyers. To reach us, call 877-RENCHER or send us an email.