Motorcycle Accident Attorney in West Covina, CA
Whether your motorcycle is a part of your commute to work or a fun hobby, it should be a safe transportation option. Unfortunately, this is not always the case, as reckless or negligent drivers can quickly cause devastating accidents. These can leave you with catastrophic injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma. A Covina motorcycle accident lawyer can explain your legal options for recovering after a motorcycle crash.
Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor, A Professional Corporation: Experienced Accident Lawyers
Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor, A Professional Corporation, has 40 years of experience in advocating for the rights of accident victims under California’s motorcycle accident laws. Our experienced personal injury attorney in Covina are passionate about building personalized cases tailored to the details of our clients’ accidents and their experiences during their recovery. Through relentless advocacy and strategic claims, we represent our clients in seeking the full recovery they deserve.
Motorcycle Accidents in Covina
Whether you are riding along Azusa Canyon or toward Bert’s Mega Mall, there is a risk of a motorcycle accident. In 2023, there were 6,335 motorcyclist fatalities in the United States, making up 15% of all motor vehicle accident fatalities.
Typically, motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligent actions of the motorcycle rider or another driver. If another driver’s negligence led to your damages, a Covina motorcycle accident attorney can represent you in a claim against them.
While every crash is unique, some of the most common reasons for an accident include:
- Distracted driving. Distractions, such as cell phones, eating, drinking, or speaking with other passengers, can prevent a driver from noticing a motorcyclist, leading to a crash.
- Speeding. High speeds reduce a driver’s ability to quickly react to a motorcyclist. Beyond increasing the likelihood of an accident, speeding also increases the force of the collision, leading to more serious damage.
- Alcohol. Alcohol-impaired drivers were involved in 25.94% of all motorcyclist fatalities, making it one of the most significant risk factors.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
It can be difficult to know what to do after an accident in Covina, especially with the high stress and adrenaline rush from the crash. Some steps to take, if you are able, include:
- Contacting the police. Move to a location away from the accident scene and traffic, and call the police. Contacting the police is a good idea, even if you are not severely injured, as it creates an official record of the accident.
- Seek medical attention. Professional medical attention is essential after suffering from a crash, especially since injuries may not be obvious due to adrenaline or the symptoms may take time to develop. Beyond protecting your health, medical records are valuable evidence to prove that your injuries were caused in the crash.
- Exchange information with the driver. Collect their name, address, contact information, insurance provider, insurance policy number, and any other relevant information. While gathering insurance information is important, do not talk to their provider until you have spoken with a lawyer.
- Document the accident scene. Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries can be valuable evidence in a claim. Take multiple photos from different angles and distances.
When it is safe and practical to do so, you should hire a motorcycle accident lawyer. Right after a crash, a lawyer can gather evidence and speak with the driver and insurance companies for you. That way, you can prioritize your health and recovery.
Recovering Compensation in a Motorcycle Accident Claim
Filing a claim can help you move forward after an accident by minimizing the financial hardship an accident may bring. A Covina motorcycle accident attorney can include a comprehensive list of your damages to include in your claim. Then, they can press for the full compensation you need. Some of the most common damages in a motorcycle accident claim include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
FAQs
How Much Is a Motorcycle Accident Settlement in California?
The settlement in a motorcycle accident case varies in Covina, CA, depending on the details of the accident as well as your damages. More severe damages, such as expensive medical bills or permanent disability, can result in a higher settlement. If you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer, they can calculate what settlement covers your damages. That way, you can avoid feeling pressured into accepting a settlement that leaves you with lingering losses.
Should You Hire a Covina Lawyer After a Motorcycle Accident?
Yes, working with a Covina motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash can allow you to focus on your recovery while also preparing you for a successful claim. Immediately after the crash, a lawyer can gather evidence and communicate with the at-fault driver and insurance company on your behalf. Throughout the case, your lawyer can manage the legal and procedural requirements of a claim. A lawyer can also negotiate for fair compensation.
What Injuries Can You Seek Compensation for in a Motorcycle Accident in Covina?
You can seek compensation for any injuries in Covina, so long as they were sustained or worsened due to the motorcycle accident. Some common injuries in motorcycle accident cases are whiplash, soft tissue injuries, traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and lacerations. Damages relating to an injury often include physical pain and suffering, lost wages due to the injury, and medical bills.
Can You File a Claim in Covina If You Are Partially at Fault for a Motorcycle Accident?
Yes, California’s motorcycle accident laws allow you to file a claim, even if you are partially at fault. California follows a pure comparative negligence system, so you can recover damages as long as you are not completely at fault. However, your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to have 40% of the responsibility for the accident, the amount of compensation you may receive can be reduced by 40%.
Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer to Pursue All You Deserve
Filing a claim can be a great way to hold the negligent driver accountable while also recovering compensation for your losses. Contact Thon Beck Vanni Callahan & O’Connor, A Professional Corporation, to set up a consultation. Then, you can learn how our team of skilled lawyers can file a claim to support your recovery.