Merced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Merced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycles are a common sight on California’s streets and highways. While motorcycles have often been associated with reckless behavior, the truth is that motorcyclists are often at far greater risk from car and truck drivers than vice versa. This should be common sense. After all, a motorcycle lacks the protection of these other motor vehicles, meaning the operator is highly susceptible to serious–if not fatal–injuries in the event of a collision.

Fortunately, motorcyclists are protected by the same personal injury laws as every other accident victim. So if you or someone in your family has been hurt, an experienced Merced motorcycle accident lawyer is here to help. At Heidari Law Group, P.C., we represent accident victims seeking compensation from negligent drivers. We can assist you in seeking damages for your medical bills, lost income, and even your ongoing pain and suffering.

How Negligence Can Lead to a Serious Motorcycle Accident

Anyone who has ever ridden a motorcycle knows there is some risk of injury or death. And even the most experienced and safety-conscious rider is still often at the mercy of other drivers on the road. Some common causes of motorcycle accidents in California include:

• a vehicle suddenly pulling in front of a motorcycle, leaving the rider no time to react and slow down;
• another vehicle suddenly merging into the motorcyclist’s lane of travel;
• another vehicle “tailgating” a motorcycle;
• another driver failing to keep a proper lookout for motorcycles behind them;
• a motorist speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
• poor road conditions, which are often the fault of improper maintenance by state and local authorities; and
• a malfunction in the motorcycle itself, which may be due to a design or manufacturing defect.

In any of these scenarios, if a motorcyclist can prove that another party’s negligence was to blame for their accident, that motorcyclist can legally recover damages. Of course, it is not always so simple. California is a “comparative negligence” state. This means a court must consider the relative fault of all parties involved in an accident, including the victim. With motorcycle accidents, it is common for negligent drivers to try and shift blame to the motorcyclist. For instance, whether or not the motorcyclist was obeying traffic laws or wearing a helmet may be cited as contributory factors. This is just one reason it is important to work with a personal injury attorney with experience in representing motorcycle accident victims.

How Damages Work in California Motorcycle Accident Cases

Without the protection afforded by a car or truck, a motorcyclist is far more likely to sustain serious injuries in an accident. Some of the more common injuries are road rash, broken bones and joints, concussions (i.e., traumatic brain injuries), and facial disfigurement. In the most serious cases, the motorcyclist may experience internal bleeding, neck and spinal injuries causing paralysis, and even death.

If a motorcyclist is killed in an accident, the surviving family members–usually a spouse or children–can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the negligent parties. Such lawsuits can recover burial and funeral expenses, the expected future earnings of the victim, and compensation for the family’s loss of the victim’s companionship and support.

Even in non-fatal accidents, the motorcyclist can seek damages not just for their current and ongoing medical expenses, but also compensation for their lost wages and future earning potential, as well as their own pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. In rare cases, a California court can even award punitive damages to punish intentional or despicable conduct.

Nearby Heidari Law Locations

• Elk Grove Lawyers
• Fresno Lawyers
• Madera Lawyers
• Modesto Lawyers
• Pleasanton Lawyers
• Rancho Cordova Lawyers
• Sacramento Lawyers
• San Jose Lawyers
• Stockton Lawyers
• Turlock Lawyers