Motorcycling is as popular as ever in California, but with so many bikers on the road, motorcycle accidents are common, often resulting in catastrophic and fatal injuries. If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, turn to BoyesLegal, APC.
Despite the public bias against motorcyclists, we believe you have a right to safe passage on the roads and freeways. When you work with us, your case will be handled by an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who will fight to protect your rights. Trust our legal team to provide you with aggressive legal representation and get you meaningful compensation. Contact us now for a free evaluation of your case.
Common Causes of a San Jose Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle are often caused by negligent drivers who may not have seen the motorcyclist. Although motorcycles can be difficult to see, all drivers have a duty to be aware of their surroundings at all times and avoid causing injuries to others on the road.
In most cases, motorcycle accidents in California are caused by driver errors such as:
- Distracted driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failing to yield at intersections
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
Motorcycle accidents can also be caused by road defects — potholes, gravel, oil spills, uneven pavement, and debris. In such cases, a personal injury lawsuit can be filed against the city, county, or state agency responsible for the maintenance of a particular road or highway. Finally, when motorcycle accidents result from mechanical defects, a product liability lawsuit can be filed against the manufacturer or distributor.
How Safety Laws Protect Riders From a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle safety laws are designed to reduce the risk of injury and death for motorcyclists. In California, all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet, as well as goggles or glasses, or a face shield that provides 100 percent coverage.
Other protective gear is optional, but highly recommended such as:
- Leather jackets
- Heavy pants
- Motorcycle boots
- Gloves
In addition, motorcycles must be equipped with the following safety features:
- Daytime running headlights
- Side-view mirrors
- Passenger seats
- Footrests for both the rider and a passenger
- Turn signals
- A muffler that conforms to maximum decibel restrictions
Despite these safety requirements, motorcycle accidents typically result in serious injuries that require ongoing, expensive medical care. For this reason, it is essential to have a skilled motorcycle accident attorney on your side.
Motorcycle Insurance Requirements in California
All motorcycle owners must carry the following minimum liability insurance coverage:
- $15,000 for death or bodily injury to one person
- $30,000 for death or bodily injury to two or more persons
- $10,000 for property damage
Motorcycle accidents can and do cause serious injuries, resulting in significant medical bills, lost wages, and other losses that far exceed these coverage amounts. With so much at stake, you need an adept personal injury attorney who will fight hard for every dollar you deserve.
How Our San Jose Firm Can Help
Our legal team is here to provide you with compassionate, effective representation and protect your rights. You can depend on us to understand all the circumstances surrounding your motorcycle accident, including:
- The time of day the accident occurred (e.g. morning, dusk, night)
- The road and weather conditions
- Whether the driver violated any traffic laws
By conducting a thorough investigation, we will show how the other driver was responsible for causing the motorcycle accident that resulted in your injuries. We will fight for damages such as:
- Medical expenses and rehabilitative costs
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability, disfigurement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
Above all, we will seek compensation that considers all of your future medical and financial needs. If you have tragically lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, we can help you file a wrongful death lawsuit to recover final medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, as well as the value of guidance and support they would have provided.
Although insurance companies often attempt to deny motorcycle accident claims or pay as little as possible, we have the negotiating skills and trial experience to get you just compensation. If the insurer fails to make a fair and reasonable offer, we will take them to court to achieve the best possible outcome.
Contact Our Experienced San Jose Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Being injured in a motorcycle accident is frightening, so don’t go it alone. At BoyesLegal, we have a well-deserved reputation as dedicated advocates of the injured who know their way around the bargaining table and the courtroom.
Regardless of the forum, we will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve. Because we understand your physical, emotional, and financial burdens, there is never a fee until we recover for you. Contact our office today to get started with a capable motorcycle accident attorney.
BoyesLegal assists motorcycle accident victims with their legal needs in San Jose and throughout the state of California.