If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, CA, you probably have a lot of emotions going through your mind. Crashes can be life-changing and can lead to various physical injuries ranging from bone fractures to traumatic brain injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, we understand the frustration and pain that you’re likely experiencing. This article will explain what a personal injury attorney does and whether you should hire one to assist you after a motorcycle crash.
Who Could Be Liable for a Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident?
California law states that any at-fault party may be held liable for damages in motorcycle accident lawsuits or claims by the motorcyclist or their heirs if the rider passes away from their injuries.
Cities and municipalities that fail to appropriately signal road construction or other hazardous circumstances on public land are among the potential at-fault parties (lack of necessary traffic signals, inadequate lighting, missing guardrails, potholes, etc.).
California is a pure comparative fault state. Therefore, the motorcycle rider has the right to file a lawsuit even if they partially contributed to the collision.
Hiring a lawyer after a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles is not required by California law. However, doing so should be considered so that they can help you identify all liable parties and protect you from allegations that you share fault for the crash.
What Should You Do After You’ve Been Injured in a Motorcycle Accident?
If someone else caused a motorcycle accident, you have the right to hold them responsible for your injuries if you file your case before the statute of limitations runs out. Most people settle their cases out of court, but others litigate their cases.
If you decide to file a claim, there are several steps that you must follow, including:
- Investigating your accident and determining what went wrong
- Gathering relevant evidence to substantiate your claims, including photos of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, and any other relevant information
- Drafting your insurance demand letter or hiring an attorney to prepare it for you
At this point, you may receive a settlement offer, or the insurance company may try to avoid responsibility and force you to settle for less money than your case is worth. Remember that insurance companies are not your friends. They are in the business of saving money, so never take the first offer.
Instead, negotiate for a higher settlement amount or ask an experienced attorney to do so. If you can’t reach a fair settlement, your attorney can negotiate on your behalf, or they can file a lawsuit for damages. Either way, an experienced attorney can assist with the claim or litigation process.
Always keep a record of your losses throughout the case, including property damage, medical injuries, lost wages, etc. You should also keep track of mental health expenses, such as visits to a counselor for help dealing with emotional distress after a motorcycle accident.
Ways a Lawyer Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Los Angeles, CA
It is best to hire an attorney after a fatality or serious motorcycle accident in which someone was injured.
Here is what an experienced personal injury attorney can do:
- Evaluate the value of your case or determine a precise estimate and then enter discussions on your behalf using that figure
- Draft an effective demand letter
- Negotiate with the insurance company and protect you from tactics that serve to undervalue your damages
- Monitor the statute of limitations
- Gather additional evidence for trial if you can’t reach an equitable settlement
- Advocate for you in court hearings
A lawyer can help in many other ways, such as consulting leading experts if there are complex issues in your Los Angeles motorcycle accident case.
A Lawyer Will Help You Calculate Your Damages
A personal injury lawyer is beneficial because they can help you find, catalog, and calculate all your damages (economic and non-economic), including:
- All previous and projected medical costs
- Losses of income
- Expenses related to disability
- Motorcycle replacement or repairs
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Car rental fees
- Distress and suffering
- Emotional harm
- Loss of quality of life
- Punitive damages
A professional attorney can evaluate your legal options and provide assistance in litigation-related matters to ensure you get the amount you deserve.
Contact a Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Attorney After Your Collision
Being in a motorcycle accident isn’t easy and can be a life-changing experience. Since California is a pure comparative negligence state, you might not receive the total amount of damages you are entitled to if the opposing party tries to partially blame you.
However, a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney can help you with your insurance claim and maximize the amount you can recover by using their legal expertise and knowledge. They can negotiate for an equitable settlement with your insurance company, or they can take the case to trial.
If you were injured in an accident in Los Angeles, CA or you lost a loved one and you need legal assistance, please contact us to schedule a free consultation. One of our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers at M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers will get in touch with you soon.
M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers – Los Angeles Office
4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 960,
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(877) 300-4535