Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorney

What is California Law Concerning Motorcycle Accidents?

An accident involving a motorcycle is considered to be a motor vehicle accident in the state of California. If an accident involving a motorcycle occurred due to another person’s negligence, the injured party has up to two years from the accident date to file a motorcycle accident claim. Regarding motorcycle accidents, California follows an at-fault system in which the victim must file their claim with the other party’s insurance provider to pursue financial compensation. 

What Are Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Sacramento?

An accident may occur when you least expect it. There are countless ways an accident may occur, but some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Left turning cars: When a motorcyclist is driving straight through an intersection or attempting to pass another vehicle, a left-turning car may not see the motorcycle. While this is a common cause for all types of motor vehicle accidents, it is hazardous for drivers of motorcycles due to the sheer size and impact of a larger vehicle like a car or truck. 
• Inexperienced riders: Just because someone knows how to operate another motor vehicle like a car or truck does not mean that they can drive a motorcycle. Motorcycles are a type of vehicle that takes skill and practice to operate safely. 
• Lane splitting: A motorcyclist may drive between two lanes to avoid traffic or move around a vehicle, but lane splitting can be dangerous if another driver does not notice the motorcyclist and hits them when attempting to change lanes. 
• Blind spot: Due to the size of a motorcycle, they are less visible when in another driver’s blind spot. It is essential for other drivers to do their best to pay attention to the location of a motorcyclist and thoroughly check their blind spot before changing lanes. 
• Speeding: Speeding may cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle and cause an accident.
• Distracted driving: If drivers are distracted by texting or changing a song, they may not notice a motorcyclist and hit them. 
• Driving under the influence: Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not only illegal, but dangerous. It is crucial that you do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle if you plan to drink. 

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to another person’s negligence, you may want to partner with a trusted motorcycle accident lawyer who may be able to help you build a strong injury claim. 

Common Injuries Suffered by Victims of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents tend to leave victims with severe injuries due to the lack of protection with which the vehicle provides drivers. If you have suffered any of the following injuries due to a motorcycle accident, you should immediately seek medical attention and get in touch with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer:

• Head injuries or traumatic brain injuries
• Neck, back, or spine injuries
• Paralysis
• Broken or fractured bones
• Sprains
• Cuts or lacerations
• Internal bleeding
• Burns
• Post-traumatic stress disorder
• Death

No matter the severity of your injuries, you deserve to be compensated for the losses you have suffered due to the other person’s negligent acts. 

Damages You May Be Eligible to Receive

Following a motorcycle accident in Sacramento, you may be eligible to receive damages for the losses you may have suffered:

• Medical expenses
• Property damage
• Lost pay
• Lost earning potential
• Pain and suffering

Attorney Winter has the knowledge and experience to help you understand what damages you may be eligible to receive.