Weed Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Weed Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you or someone you know was injured in a motorcycle accident, having a Weed motorcycle accident lawyer is essential in seeking the compensation you need for your injuries and other losses. A Weed personal injury lawyer at Barr and Mudford can fight for your rights and future so you can focus on recovery.

About Barr and Mudford

Since 1967, Barr and Mudford has been fighting for injured Californians and standing up to powerful opponents to support our clients. Our firm has successfully gone head-to-head with major insurance companies, corporations like General Motors and Greyhound, and even government agencies. We have success in motorcycle accident cases and are knowledgeable about motorcycle accident laws.

We’re known as one of California’s top personal injury law firms because we get results, and we truly care about the people we represent. When you hire us, you get a team that’s committed to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

What Makes Motorcycle Riding Different

In 2021, 5,932 motorcyclists were involved in fatal crashes across the nation. In California, 565 motorcyclists were killed in the same year. The main factor that contributed to motorcycle crashes in California was unsafe speed, contributing to 29.1% of crashes.

Riding a motorcycle presents unique challenges that are not present when driving a car. Motorcycles have limited visibility. In addition, they lack the safety features that other vehicles have, such as airbags, seatbelts, and an enclosed space. If a motorcyclist gets into an accident, they risk getting thrown off their bike, something that isn’t such a high risk when driving other vehicles.

Additionally, road hazards pose more of a risk of accident and injury for motorcyclists than drivers of other vehicles. For instance, a pothole may go unnoticed if a car drives over it, but the same pothole can cause a motorcyclist to lose control of their vehicle.

Because of this, it is important to exercise safety measures while riding a motorcycle or if you are a motorist in close proximity to a motorcycle rider.

Riders often collide because another driver didn’t see them, especially when making a left turn, or because of hazards like debris or potholes.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can happen quickly. Many accidents happen due to negligence or road hazards. Understanding what typically leads to these accidents helps determine who is legally responsible and how to build a strong case. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Left-turn accidents. Left-turn accidents are one of the most common types of accidents. This typically happens at intersections when a driver misjudges the motorcycle’s speed or simply doesn’t see the bike at all. In many cases, the motorcyclist has the right of way but is struck due to the other driver’s inattention.
• Unsafe lane changes. Drivers sometimes fail to check their blind spots or signal properly before switching lanes, putting motorcyclists, who are smaller and harder to spot, directly in harm’s way. Weed, California’s rural highways and winding roads, especially around U.S. Route 97 and Interstate 5, are high-risk areas for these types of collisions.
• Rear-end collisions. While rear-end crashes between cars are often minor, they can be catastrophic for riders. A sudden stop by a motorcyclist, especially in traffic or near a stoplight, can lead to the rider being thrown from the bike if the car behind them doesn’t slow down in time.
• Road hazards. Potholes, loose gravel, fallen branches, and uneven pavement are far more dangerous for motorcycles than for cars. A rider who hits a small object or road imperfection at highway speed may lose control instantly. Local agencies can be held responsible for these situations, such as the California Department of Transportation or the Siskiyou County Public Works.
• Distracted driving. Distracted driving, including texting, using a GPS, or even eating while driving, remains one of the top contributors to accidents. Drivers not fully focused on the road are more likely to overlook motorcycles, which are harder to spot than other vehicles.
• Lane splitting. Lane splitting, which is riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic, is legal in California, but it must be done safely. If a crash occurs while lane splitting, liability can be complex.

Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle collisions can involve a mix of mechanical, environmental, and human factors, but in nearly every case, the key to recovering damages lies in proving negligence. At Barr and Mudford, we can conduct thorough investigations to uncover the exact cause of your crash.

FAQs

Q: What Is the Average Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident in California?

A: There is no average settlement for a motorcycle accident in California. Each settlement for a motorcycle accident is different and depends on the specific circumstances of your case. Factors that influence settlement amounts include medical bills, the severity of your injuries, lost income, and who was at fault. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help estimate your case’s potential value.

Q: Should I Get a Lawyer After a Motorcycle Accident?

A: It is not legally required, but it is highly recommended that you get a lawyer after a motorcycle accident, especially if you have been seriously injured or have had significant property damage. A skilled attorney can protect your rights, handle insurance negotiations, and work to maximize your compensation. They can also guide you through legal procedures and ensure crucial evidence is preserved early in the process.

Q: How Much Do Accident Lawyers Charge in California?

A: The amount an accident lawyer charges in California will vary. Each attorney charges differently. Many of them work on a contingency fee basis, which means that they only charge if you win your case. Their fee will be a percentage of your earnings. If there’s no recovery, you typically owe nothing. This arrangement makes it possible for injured clients to access high-quality legal help without financial risk.

Q: How Long Does It Take To Receive a Settlement From a Motorcycle Accident?

A: The timeline for a motorcycle accident settlement can range from a few months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the case. Factors include the extent of your injuries, ongoing medical treatment, insurance company cooperation, and whether the case goes to trial. A lawyer can help streamline the process and avoid unnecessary delays.

Contact Barr and Mudford Today

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Weed, a Weed motorcycle accident attorney at Barr and Mudford can help you seek the justice you deserve. Contact us today for more information.