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There are numerous advantages to riding a motorcycle, including easier parking and reduced fuel costs. However, motorcyclists also face an increased risk from reckless and negligent drivers. When another driver’s poor decisions result in a serious crash, a Fallbrook motorcycle accident lawyer could help you recover your losses through a personal injury lawsuit.
The roadway can be dangerous for any driver, but motorcyclists face specific hazards due to the size of their vehicle, their lack of visibility to other drivers, and their relative lack of protection during a crash. Nevertheless, several of the common causes of Fallbrook motorcycle accidents result from negligence.
Unfortunately, many motorists are primed to look for full-size vehicles when making a turn, leading to a mental blind spot in noticing motorcycles. This becomes particularly risky during left turns. If a motorist fails to yield when turning left in front of a motorcyclist, a crash is likely. This violation of California Vehicle Code § 21801 can result in serious injuries and totaled motorcycles.
Motorcyclists take up less room on the road, but are therefore easier for merging drivers to overlook. When a driver fails to fully check their mirrors and blind spots before making a lane change, they put motorcyclists, themselves, and other drivers and passengers on the road at risk.
Distracted drivers are likely to cause accidents of all kinds, but collisions with motorcyclists often cause more serious damage. Due to the lack of physical protection offered by a motorcycle, injuries tend to be more severe for riders involved in these wrecks.
Potholes, loose gravel, and other road hazards can pose significant challenges for motorcyclists. If a municipality or contractor has failed to keep the roadways safe or provide adequate warning signs, there may be grounds for a lawsuit to receive compensation for resulting injuries.
Following an accident, there are multiple steps involved in filing a personal injury lawsuit to receive compensation for your injuries. First, evidence must be collected and presented to demonstrate fault. This will likely include the initial police report, and additional evidence such as forensics from the scene (skidmarks, vehicle damage, etc.), witness statements, and any video feeds that captured the crash.
Once fault has been established, a Fallbrook lawyer could help you fully account for all the losses you suffered as a result of your motorcycle wreck. The total dollar amount will be used to negotiate with the at-fault driver, typically through their insurance company, in order to get a fair settlement offer.
If a settlement agreement cannot be reached, a personal injury lawsuit may be taken to court, where the evidence will be presented before a jury.
Following an accident, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps. Before you accept any settlement offers, reach out to a Fallbrook motorcycle accident lawyer who could ensure you are getting fair and thorough compensation for your losses. At Lathrop Law Firm, we are here to answer your questions so you can move forward with confidence.