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Motorcycle Accident Damages

Tue 26th Feb, 2019 Personal Injury

California leads the nation in registered bikers. Unfortunately, with so many riders on the road, motorcyclists are often the victims in accidents that result in serious and lasting injuries.

Motorcycle accidents can cause lifelong injuries, and they result in medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs. If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, a lawyer at McKinley, Conger, Jolley & Galarneau, LLP can provide legal assistance. We can help you file a claim to obtain motorcycle accident damages from the party at fault. Contact our Stockton, CA practice for a case review.

Determining Fault in a Motorcycle Collision

California is an at-fault state, meaning that liability for damages in a motorcycle accident hinges on who is responsible for the crash. Under the law of comparative negligence, the victim’s compensation is proportional to his or her degree of fault. That is why it is essential to prove that the defendant was at fault to the highest degree possible.

Many motorcycle accidents are the result of error on the part of the motor vehicle operator. If the car driver was disobeying the rules of the road by speeding, driving drunk, driving aggressively, tailgating, or acting negligently in another manner, he or she may be at fault and liable for damages. In some cases, a third party such as the motorcycle manufacturer may be responsible for a defective part.

Evaluating Damages after a Motorcycle Accident

The plaintiff in a motorcycle accident case must prove that the actions of the other driver – or another third party – led to the accident. Further, they must prove that the injuries they suffered were a direct result of the collision.

Because motorcycles do not have a protective frame enclosing the operator, these injuries are unfortunately often substantial: traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries, bone fractures, and loss of limbs, to name a few common traumas.

In addition to physical pain, the victim in a motorcycle accident will often have to cope with financial loss and emotional trauma. The motorcyclist might miss work for an extended period of time or be unable to return at all. The injuries they sustain might affect relationships and prevent them from doing things they love to do. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys understand how to evaluate and quantify all of these financial and non-financial losses.

How an Attorney Can Help You Collect Damages

A motorcycle accident lawsuit can help the victim cover his or her short- and long-term medical bills, property damage, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, and emotional trauma.

Our motorcycle accident attorneys will work to ensure that you receive the maximum damages possible. We will conduct a thorough investigation; this may include obtaining police reports, photos, videos, medical records, and other evidence. We will use that evidence to prove the other driver was at fault.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Comparative fault laws can be complicated and it is essential that you receive the full compensation you deserve. Our attorneys can handle motorcycle accident cases and help you secure compensation for damages. Contact our firm at 209-477-8171 today to schedule a consultation.

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