Fountain Valley Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Fountain Valley, CA
Motorcyclists are uniquely vulnerable every time they ride on Orange County roadways. Whether you’re traveling down Brookhurst Street or riding through traffic on Magnolia Street near Interstate 405, a crash can quickly leave you seriously injured with limited ability to protect yourself from harm. A Fountain Valley motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand the legal issues following a motorcycle crash.
Why Choose Bentley & More LLP
At Bentley & More LLP, we take the time to learn each person’s story. Whether we represent consumers or employees, our attorneys serve clients throughout California by creating custom legal plans based on your specific situation. We care about how an injury affects not only your life, but your family’s as well. That’s why we strive to reach meaningful results that allow you to move forward from difficult circumstances.
Understanding California Motorcycle Accident Laws
Motorcycle accidents fall under many of the same laws that apply to other types of motor vehicle accidents. Motorcyclists may face specific challenges when seeking compensation after an accident because insurers and opposing parties may blame riders for motorcycle collisions even when other drivers were clearly at fault.
California is a comparative negligence state as described in California Civil Code § 1714. The statute explains that more than one party can be responsible for an accident. Therefore, if you are found to be partially at fault, you may be entitled to compensation from the other driver. However, your recovery would be reduced by your percentage of fault.
California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1 also outlines that an injured party generally has two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file a personal injury claim. Although motorbikes account for only 3% of all registered cars and 0.6% of total vehicle miles traveled in the United States, they account for 16.2% of all road fatalities and 3.6% of all injuries in 2024.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Are Often More Severe
Motorcycles offer drivers and their passengers far less protection than passenger vehicles. Riders do not have seat belts, airbags, or a protective frame surrounding them. For this reason, even low-speed impacts can cause serious injury.
Motorcycle accidents are common along busy Fountain Valley streets like Warner Avenue and Euclid Street. The areas surrounding the Fountain Valley Promenade shopping center also see their fair share of motorcycle collisions. With vehicles entering and exiting Interstate 405 nearby, traffic can often be heavy, contributing to dangerous conditions for motorcyclists. Motorcycle accidents can cause a variety of injuries, including:
- Internal damage
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Road rash
Because motorcycle accidents can lead to life-altering injuries, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention following a crash and keep detailed documentation of your treatment.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Drivers who fail to see motorcyclists can cause some of the most common types of motorcycle accidents. Because motorcycles have smaller profiles than cars and trucks, it can be easier for a driver to simply look right through them. Some causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Left-turn into traffic
- Driving distracted
- Tailgating
- Failing to yield
- Speeding
- Reckless driving
Road hazards present unique challenges to motorcyclists as well. Things like uneven pavement, potholes, roadway debris, and construction zones can all cause motorcycle accidents.
California’s Motorcycle Helmet Law
According to California Vehicle Code § 27903, California law requires motorcyclists and their passengers to wear an approved safety helmet. The helmet law applies to all motorcycle riders in the state, regardless of age or experience level. Safety helmets help protect riders from traumatic brain injuries if they’re in an accident. Even if you sustained injuries while following California’s helmet law, you could still experience serious injury during a motorcycle accident.
Helmet use can come into question during litigation. For motorcycle accidents that result in head or facial injuries, the attorneys for each party may look more closely at whether the helmet contributed to or reduced injury.
Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, it is recommended that you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer to learn about your rights. Motorcycle accident claims can involve serious injuries and disputed facts. Contact a Fountain Valley motorcycle accident attorney to learn what evidence may be important for your motorcycle accident case.
FAQs
What Is the 12-Second Rule on a Motorcycle?
The 12-second rule is a defensive driving technique that teaches motorcyclists to focus their eyes twelve seconds down the road. Looking ahead gives the rider additional time to identify problems with traffic flow, hazards, intersections, or potential danger. This increased awareness may allow more time to respond and make appropriate riding decisions.
Who Is at Fault in Motorcycle Accidents?
Determining fault in a motorcycle accident depends on the facts surrounding the crash. Drivers who didn’t yield, changed lanes improperly, tailgated, or were distracted can be liable. California has a comparative negligence law, so more than one party can be at fault. Typically, liability is established after investigating the facts, including witness statements, police reports, and photos.
What Do You Do After a Motorcycle Accident in California?
Get medical care following a motorcycle accident promptly, even for minor injuries. Take photographs of the accident scene, get witness information, and request a copy of the police report if it is safe. Quickly seeking medical care and carefully documenting what happened can help establish an objective record of the accident and injuries.
How Do Insurers Determine Who Was at Fault?
Insurers conduct accident investigations based on police reports, photos of the vehicles involved, vehicle damage, witness statements, medical reports, and any video footage they can find. Investigators may also look into applicable traffic laws and driver statements. The adjuster is tasked with finding out how the crash happened and if anyone was responsible for causing the crash due to negligent or unsafe driving.
Get Trusted Legal Guidance
At Bentley & More LLP, we know how serious a motorcycle accident can be. We can help you seek compensation for your damages. Contact us immediately for next steps.
Client Testimonials
“I can’t thank Bentley & More enough, especially Steve. After my dad’s passing in a car accident, they secured a settlement we are so grateful for. From the start, they made sure we were taken care of, handling everything so we didn’t have to worry. Steve went above and beyond, always there when we needed support, and it was such a relief knowing we were in good hands. If you’re looking for a firm that truly cares, Bentley & More is the one. Highly recommend them!” – Kevin Jimenez ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bentley & More LLP Office
Address: 4931 Birch Street Newport Beach, CA 92660
Phone: (949) 870-3800
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