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Merced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Motorcycle riders understand there are numerous risks associated with riding a bike, but that doesn’t give other motorists the right to treat them differently. All motorists are required to look out for motorcycles and follow the rules of the road. However, many drivers fail to take the proper precautions when it comes to motorcycle riders, which can lead to deadly consequences. If you sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident caused by another party’s negligence, you have rights. The Merced motorcycle accident lawyers at Silva Injury Law can help you pursue a personal injury claim.
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What Is the Average Settlement for Motorcycle Accidents?
Factors that impact your potential case value include your injury type and severity. The more serious your injuries are, the more your case could be worth. Someone with permanent injuries will typically have a higher value than someone with soft tissue injuries that healed in three months. Your overall damages also impact your value. The more financial losses you have, the more compensation you could be entitled to receive.
Liability plays a significant role in determining case value. California is a pure comparative negligence state. That means you might still receive compensation, even if you were partially to blame for the crash. However, any payment would be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if a jury finds you 20% at fault, you could collect 80% of your damages.
Common Causes of a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle crashes can happen for many reasons. However, some causes are more common than others. Common causes of a motorcycle accident include:
- Distracted driving;
- Opening a car door into a motorcycle rider;
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
- Speeding;
- Stopping suddenly;
- Turning left in front of a motorcycle;
- Inexperienced riders;
- Road hazards;
- Inclement weather; and
- Defective motorcycle parts.
Splitting lanes can also contribute to motorcycle accidents. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean the motorcyclist is at fault. California is one of the few states where splitting lanes is legal. Unfortunately, drivers may not be aware of that. When lane splitting, it’s illegal for a driver to impede a motorcyclist or block them in any way that could result in an injury.
Common Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident
Unfortunately, motorcycle accident injuries are often severe. Motorcycle riders lack the protection of other motor vehicles. Even a rider who wears all the proper safety gear can’t be fully protected against a direct impact with a moving car. Some of the more common injuries we see include:
- Broken bones;
- Traumatic brain injuries;
- Other head injuries;
- Lacerations, cuts, and road rash;
- Burns;
- Internal injuries;
- Fractured ribs;
- Facial injuries;
- Crushed or severed limbs; and
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis.
California has a universal helmet law. Anyone riding a motorcycle must wear a Department of Transportation approved helmet regardless of age. If you were not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, assume the other driver’s insurance company will use that information against you. If you sustained a head injury while not wearing a helmet, they would likely claim that you contributed to your own injuries by not following the law. You need a solid legal advocate on your side to argue for the maximum compensation.
How a Merced Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help
When you hire Silva Injury Law to represent you, we work tirelessly to build the strongest case possible. Our job is to protect your rights and help you receive the most compensation. Your attorney will start by gathering all documentation and preserving evidence. That could require an independent investigation, taking scene photos, hiring experts, speaking with witnesses, and more.
Your attorney will also handle all communication with the insurance company, including settlement negotiations. It’s best to have someone on your side who can handle complex legal tasks while you concentrate on recovery. Should the defendant’s insurance company not engage in productive settlement negotiations, we will prepare to file a lawsuit on your behalf.
Contact Our Merced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If you sustained injuries in a California motorcycle accident, you need an assertive legal advocate on your side. At Silva Injury Law, our Merced motorcycle accident attorneys have years of experience assisting injured victims like you. We understand the importance of building a solid case and not backing down during challenging negotiations. Our legal team also has the skills and experience to take your case to trial if required.
Don’t attempt to negotiate a motorcycle accident on your own. Let Silva Injury Law assist you. Contact our office today to schedule an initial consultation and learn how we can help you fight for the maximum compensation possible.
Our experienced legal team also handles other types of injury cases, including:
Promoting Healing Through Compassionate Advocacy
We believe that our duty goes beyond achieving large monetary awards for our clients. We strive first to be decent human beings who seek not to stir up fights, but to solve problems.