In California, the motorcycle is one of the most convenient and favored means of transportation. However, riding this two-wheel vehicle is also one of the riskiest ways to hang around. In fact, the state has numerous fatal road accidents involving motorcycles. Riders are at higher risk of sustaining severe injuries or could die in a disastrous crash.
California has the most motorcycle registrations reaching 785,424 than any state. It’s because the said state has the largest population among the American states. Additionally, motorcycle riders find the climate suitable. However, 88% of motorcycle accidents here result in fatal injuries or even death.
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident and suffer severe injuries, seeking medical treatment as soon as possible is the most important thing to do. But don’t forget that it’s also crucial to protect your rights. To do so, contact Big Ben Lawyers and speak with one of the best motorcycle accident lawyers in California to help and provide you with the most compelling coverage of legal representation.
Major Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in California
Motorcycle accidents can be prevented if not for the negligence of other people. If all drivers are sensible enough to practice their duty of care, no one will get hurt or even die. Here are the leading causes why motorcycle accidents occur on California roads and highways:
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving means the focus of the person behind the wheel is not on the road. The vehicle driver could be eating, drinking, texting, talking to someone on the phone, or navigating an app.
Intoxication by Drugs or Alcohol
This applies to both the motorcycle rider and other motorists. Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol impairs a driver’s reasoning and mental awareness. Intoxication can delay his reaction time, and before he knew it, he slammed another vehicle, tree, hydrant, wall, establishment, or anyone on the road, including pedestrians. A drunk or “high” driver can kill himself, his passengers, and other people on the road.
Lane Splitting
Some states don’t allow lane splitting, but California does and legalized it in 2017. There are different points of view regarding its safety. According to some motorists, it minimizes the risk of rear-end collisions. However, others think its the opposite due to these factors:
- The nearness of bigger vehicles to motorcycles
- Restricted space, which makes it difficult for motorcycle drivers to maneuver
- Larger vehicle drivers don’t expect riders to overtake in stopped or retarded traffic
Head-On Collisions
A majority of motorcycle accident casualties occur because of head-on collisions. It also happens when two vehicles approaching from opposite sides slam into each other. This circumstance usually involves cars or larger vehicles such as trucks smashing into motorcycles at intersections.
Road Hazards
Road construction or maintenance can be a real hazard to motorists, especially at night and when there are no sufficient warnings or lights to caution drivers. Open manholes, wet pavement, potholes, or asphalt cracks can pose danger to a motorcycle rider. The injured victim can file a lawsuit against the state or municipality for compensation.
Vehicles Turning Left
This accident occurs when a vehicle makes a left-hand turn in front of the motorcycle rider. It’s responsible for 42% of all accidents involving another vehicle and a motorcycle. Generally, this happens when the car hits the motorcycle when the rider is:
- Heading forward through an intersection
- Attempting to overtake a vehicle
- Passing the vehicle
When the Motorcycle Accident is a Hit-and-Run Case
More often than not, motorcycle accidents are hit-and-runs, especially when it happens at night. The driver might be drunk or speeding. Whatever is the reason, the liable driver who fled the accident scene should face the consequences of his negligent act. On your end, you need to protect your rights and do the following if possible:
- Take note of the vehicle’s model, make, and a license plate that hit you
- Call the authorities and get a copy of the police report
- Look for any witnesses to the scene and obtain their contact information
- Take some pictures and footage of the accident scene
- Contact Big Ben Lawyers and speak with one of their experienced motorcycle accident attorneys
Get the Justice and Compensation You Deserve. Contact Big Ben Lawyers.
When it comes to protecting your rights, getting justice, and the right compensation, you can count on Big Ben Lawyers for help. Our compassionate and skilled lawyers ensure to protect your rights and work harder to maximize your compensation.
Our lawyers have an interest and background in Medicine, giving us an edge to establish a successful case. Moreover, we’ll identify the proper treatment you’ll need and find the extent of your injuries.
Get in touch with Big Ben Lawyers. You may reach us at (818) 423-4878, we will serve you 24/7. You can also send your queries to their email. We work on a contingency fee basis so you can focus on your speedy healing.
Big Ben Lawyers
144 N Glendale Ave.
Suite 250
Glendale, CA 91206