Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Lawyers CA

Most Common Causes for Motorcycle Accidents

There are several factors that may lead to a motorcycle accident. It is helpful to be aware of these factors so that drivers can be more vigilant on the road. Our Sacramento motorcycle accident attorneys have outlined the most common reasons for motorcycle accidents below:

Distracted Driving

Distracted drivers play a large role in motorcycle accidents. In 2020, 3,142 individuals were killed in traffic accidents that involved a distracted driver.

Speeding

One of the most common causes of road accidents is speeding. A speeding motorist has less time to react to hazards on the road. This can lead to serious bodily injury due to high speeds.

Lane Splitting

Despite being illegal in most states, lane splitting is still permitted in California. Some researchers claim that lane splitting improves roadway safety and reduces traffic congestion. However, lane splitting can still cause traffic collisions, especially in areas with heavy traffic.

Dangerous Road Conditions

The likelihood of motorcycle accidents is increased by the presence of uneven roads, lack of signages, bad lighting, and other road hazards. These poor road conditions can cause motorists to make dangerous last-minute decisions.

Inexperienced Riders

Motorcycle riders who lack experience on the road are more likely to make risky decisions. It is essential to teach all new riders road safety habits and responsible driving.

Cars Making a Left-Hand Turn

When drivers fail to see motorcyclists, they are often involved in accidents. If a driver is careless and makes a turn without noticing an oncoming motorcyclist, it could lead to a head-on collision. Misjudging distance, right-of-way violations, and negligent drivers are some common reasons for these types of accidents.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is another factor that causes motorcycle accidents. A report by the National Security Council (NSC) states that 1,526 motorcycle accident deaths occurred caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol.

Tailgating

Rear-end collisions often occur when one vehicle tails or follows too closely behind another vehicle, and the leading car suddenly stops. Such accidents often cause serious physical injuries or property damage to motorcyclists.

Motorcycle Defects

Some motorcycle accidents may be caused by motorcycle defects. If an accident was caused by a defective part, the manufacturer of the part may be held liable for the accident. Motorcyclists are also encouraged to keep their motorcycles properly maintained to avoid accidents.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle riders are more vulnerable to injuries in motor vehicle accidents than individuals in passenger cars. This is because motorcyclists have less protection. Although wearing a helmet can help reduce the severity of a head injury, other parts of the body may still be severely injured.

Knowing the most common types of injuries that may be sustained in a motorcycle accident is a good step toward getting the right medical care.

1. Traumatic brain injury – Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur when the head is suddenly and violently jolted or hit. This can cause mild symptoms like nausea and vomiting, dizziness, or loss of balance. More severe symptoms include losing consciousness, having seizures, and experiencing mood swings. California has a mandatory helmet law stating that it is unlawful to operate a motorcycle if the driver or passenger does not have a properly fitted helmet.
2. Broken bones – The most common bones that fracture in a car accident are the legs, arms, ribs, and collarbone. With treatment such as surgery and casting, some of these fractures may heal over time.
3. Road rash – Road rash is caused by the friction of the skin scraping against a rough surface, such as the road. This can be more likely to happen if the motorcyclist does not have much protection from the road surface.
4. Loss of limbs – There are several factors that can contribute to the loss of a limb in a car accident. Upper or lower extremity limbs can be severed if they are impinged during the accident. A limb may also need amputation if it is shattered beyond repair.
5. Spinal cord injury – Motorcycle accidents can often result in injuries to the spinal cord, which can be extremely painful and may cause partial or total paralysis. Spinal injuries can be very debilitating, causing missed days of work and increasing medical bills.

Safety Tips for Motorcycle Riding

Motorcyclists are more likely to be involved in accidents than other motorists. Therefore, they should take extra care when traveling. The following safety tips can help motorcyclists avoid accidents:

• Refrain from going over the speed limit
• Don’t be overly confident when traveling
• Keep a reasonable distance between other vehicles
• Do not travel when under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Also, be on the lookout for poor road conditions
• Always wear a properly fitted helmet and protective gear
• Enhance your riding skills in a safe setting
• Conduct regular maintenance checks

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be a very frightening experience and a stressful time, especially if you sustain catastrophic injuries. If you have been in a motorcycle accident in Sacramento, it is important that you take action quickly to improve your chances of ensuring your rights are preserved and you receive the maximum compensation possible.

Some of the steps one must take after a motorcycle accident are:

1. Call the police. Contact the police immediately. Ensure that the police are at the accident scene and file a police report. Make sure to procure the number of the accident report. Your Sacramento motorcycle accident lawyer may use this as evidence to strengthen your claim.
2. Seek medical attention. Regardless of whether you suspect you may only have minor injuries, it is still crucial that you see a medical professional ensure that you are clear of any internal injuries that do not present themselves outwardly.
3. Document the accident scene. Take as many photos of the accident scene as possible. Document the accident details from different angles and include certain elements that may be important to your cases, such as skid marks, signages, lighting, and road conditions. Take pictures of your property damage as well. This may also be beneficial evidence to your case.
4. Collect the information of the at-fault driver. Remember to procure the at-fault driver’s information, such as their full name, ID, contact number, license plate, and if possible, their insurance company information.
5. Contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. Do not hesitate to contact our Sacramento motorcycle accident lawyers immediately after your accident.

What Kind of Compensation Can You Recover in a Motorcycle Accident Claim

As the injured party, you may be entitled to recover a compensation award for your injuries and economic damages. You may be compensated for the following:

• Medical expenses
• Future medical costs
• Wage loss
• Loss of future income
• Motorcycle property damage repair or replacement costs
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of quality of life
• And more

If a motorcycle accident caused by an at-fault party caused the wrongful death of your loved one, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. Although no amount of money is enough to make up for the loss of a loved one, this compensation is meant to help aid the family financially. Covering costs such as funeral and burial expenses, or any other out-of-pocket expenses incurred due to the accident.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Farahi Law Firm Today

At Farahi Law Firm, APC, our Sacramento motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to providing aggressive legal representation to victims of motorcycle accidents.

Our team of lawyers, doctors, and case handlers will ensure that your needs are met and that you are protected in you receive the fair compensation you deserve.

If you have questions about your motorcycle injury claim, our motorcycle injury lawyers are here to help guide you through the legal process. Contact us today for a free consultation at (916) 471-4797.