Fellow motorcyclists understand the exhilarating feeling when traveling on backroads in the open country. Even when you maintain your vehicle, wear a helmet and other protective gear, and pay attention to weather reports and others on the road. However, the precautions you take may not be enough if you share the road with a reckless driver.
When you are injured in an accident caused by someone else, get in touch with a Palm Desert motorcycle accident lawyer today. We know responsible motorcyclists suffer horrific injuries and need help paying for medical care and lost wages. After a motorcycle wreck, it is crucial to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your options for compensation.
Motorcycle Accidents Cause Catastrophic Injuries
Because motorcycle crashes frequently cause traumatic head injuries, the California Vehicle Code §27803 requires all motorcyclists and passengers to wear helmets compliant with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 218 and certified by the manufacturer. However, although helmets help reduce deaths, injuries can still be severe. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in crashes than auto passengers. Other common injuries among motorcycle crash victims include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Multiple broken bones
- Severe road rash
- Sprained and torn muscles and ligaments
- Damage to internal organs
- Death
A compassionate motorcycle wreck attorney in Palm Desert knows that recovering from a crash can take many years and be incredibly costly. Fortunately, a legal representative can collect the necessary evidence proving a negligent driver directly caused a victim’s injuries and fight to get them payment for their harm.
How Do You Prove Negligence in a Motorcycle Crash?
Motorcycle accidents typically occur when a negligent driver shares the road with a rider. When bringing a claim against the at-fault party, the injured party must prove four elements: duty, breach, causation, and damages.
For example, an impaired driver exceeding the speed limit is breaching the duty to drive safely. If they hit a biker and cause injuries, they are liable and must compensate the victim for their damages.
To prove these damages, a Palm Desert motorcycle crash lawyer will examine medical and police records, cell phone logs, surveillance videos, and eyewitness testimony recounting the motorcycle collision.
Insurance Company Settlements
When a reckless driver has insurance coverage, the insurer will try to pressure the injured motorcyclist with a lowball offer. After all, insurers are not in business to throw money at claims; they want to make a profit and count on injured people to take the first offer out of desperation. However, our legal representatives will fight for the best settlement, and if insurers try to cheat an injured motorcyclist, an attorney will meet them in court.
How Long Do You Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Plaintiffs have limited time to file personal injury lawsuits. The law reasons that evidence disappears over time, and defendants should not have the threat of a lawsuit over their heads indefinitely. In most Palm Desert cases, the statute of limitations is two years from when the motorcycle accident occurred. However, as an attorney can explain, exceptions to this rule may apply.
A Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Palm Desert Can Help
Unfortunately, your chances of a severe accident are more likely when riding a motorcycle than driving in a car. That said, when a motorcycle accident happens, and someone else causes it, you must consider what to do after receiving emergency medical attention. You need legal help.
That is where we step in. When a reckless motorist smashes into you, a Palm Desert motorcycle accident lawyer will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you need for your rehabilitation, financial losses, and the emotional angst you are going through. Call today to schedule your initial consultation.