Being on the roads of California requires a plan no matter the circumstance. Adding a motorcycle to the mix, unfortunately, increases your chances of being injured if you are involved in an accident. Prepare yourself on the road by answering a few questions you might have about motorcycle accidents in California:
What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in California?
The combination of road and weather conditions with negligent drivers is a disaster waiting to happen. The most common causes of motorcycle accidents are typically a combination of negligence and exterior factors such as poor visibility or hazardous road conditions. The following factors often contribute to motorcycle accidents in California:
- Texting while driving
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Reckless driving
- Drivers who are inattentive
- Dangerous weather conditions
- Poor visibility
- Hazardous road conditions
What are California’s helmet laws?
California has a strict helmet law to protect motorcyclists from serious head injuries. California’s helmet law requires all motorcyclists to wear a helmet at all times while riding. Protect yourself by wearing a helmet on the roads of California.
What should I do after being involved in a motorcycle accident?
There are five steps to take after being involved in a motorcycle accident. Having a plan in place in case of a worst-case scenario is important to protect yourself, especially if you receive injuries due to the accident. Follow these steps directly following a motorcycle accident:
- Call the authorities. Having the police and an ambulance on the scene of the accident will allow the authorities to conduct a police report and for the medical professionals to treat any injuries. The police will redirect traffic to create a safe environment. Seek medical attention immediately for your injuries and be sure to collect all medical documents that should include the date, time, and severity of your injuries.
- Have a quick and polite conversation with the other driver to collect their insurance information and their name, address, and contact information.
- Collect any witnesses’ information. This will be helpful if you decide to open a personal injury claim. Witnesses will be able to support your claim.
- Take photos and/or videos of the scene. Photos should include any damage to the property and vehicles. Also, photograph any injuries.
- Contact a California personal injury lawyer that will take you through each step necessary to submit a claim. A personal injury lawyer will help you recover any compensation you may be entitled to. This could include compensation for any of the following: medical expenses, lost earning potential, lost wages, emotional distress.
What is the statute of limitations for motorcycle accidents in California?
The statute of limitations for motorcycle accidents is two years in California. This means that from the date you received your injuries, you will have two years to take legal action against the other driver. This is important to know because if you wait too long, you may be barred from suing. Contact a California personal injury attorney today to discuss your options. A common mistake many make is waiting to see if injuries heal on their own. Be sure to take legal action within the statute of limitations to recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact our experienced California firm
Whether you’ve been injured in an accident due to negligence or you’ve been charged with a DUI, you cannot afford to proceed without strong legal representation at your side. Here at The Law Offices of Dale R. Gomes, we are dedicated to helping all those in need of an attorney who can efficiently fight for their rights. Contact our firm today so we can discuss your case.