Thousand Oaks Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Southern California is beautiful. It also bolsters an incredible climate all year. That’s why it is home to the greatest number of licensed motorcycle riders in the US. That may also be the reason why California leads with the most motorcycle rider accidents each year.

California has no shortage of incredible scenic routes that make it one of the best places for motorcycle riding. However, if you’ve been involved in a Thousand Oaks motorcycle accident because of a negligent driver, they could be held responsible if you suffered a serious injury. Accident victims are entitled to damages under California law.

A Ventura County Personal Injury Attorney can protect those involved in a motorcycle crash. If you’re in need of legal help or want to explore your legal options, contact Maki Law Offices and take the first steps towards recovering your medical bills and lost wages. Call us for a free consultation.

What Are the Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle crashes with other vehicles can cause catastrophic accidents. Understanding the causes of motorcycle accidents can mitigate risk. If you or a loved one is involved in a collision, speak with a Thousand Oaks personal injury attorney in your community today. Read on for the most likely causes of a motorcycle collision.

Reckless Driving

Motorcycle accidents can be caused when a driver breaches their duty of care. Liability in motorcycle collisions with other vehicles comes down to who was driving recklessly — the motorcyclist or the motorist. If you can prove negligence by demonstrating how reckless driving occurred, then you may be able to recover financial compensation from the insurance provider.

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol

Operating a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol or drugs is incredibly dangerous, against the law, and can contribute to a motorcycle and car accident. According to the data on impaired accidents, a higher percentage of motorcycle riders are involved in fatal alcohol-related crashes than drivers of passenger vehicles, light trucks, or large trucks.

Speeding

Crash severity generally increases with speed. Especially when other drivers are involved, speeding accidents can be fatal. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, a Thousand Oaks personal injury law firm can be of assistance.

Head-On Collisions

A head-on collision can occur when a vehicle departs its lane and travels into the path of an oncoming vehicle. The lack of collision protection on motorcycles contributes to a high proportion of fatalities and devastating injuries.

Lane Splitting

California allows riding a motorcycle between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. The American Motorcyclist Association and other motorcycle advocacy groups endorse lane splitting and argue that it reduces motorcyclists’ exposure. However, some states have chosen to make it illegal.

Sudden Stops

Sudden stops do not cause collisions at a higher rate for motorcycle operators than for passenger vehicle operators. However, they can be more fatal. Since motorcycles are not equipped with seat belts, a sudden stop can cause a motorcyclist to be thrown from their bike, either into another vehicle or into traffic, which can cause a wrongful death.

Dangerous Road Conditions

Unsafe road conditions can kill a motorcyclist. That’s why government agencies have a responsibility to address hazards once they’re aware. Failing to do so could mean they’re liable for your accident. Dangerous road conditions may include:

• Cracks
• Failure to cover speed limit signs in construction zones
• Lack of guardrails
• Non-functioning traffic signals
• Poor lighting
• Construction debris
• Slippery road surfaces
• Uneven pavement

Recovering compensation in cases against government agencies can be challenging, but the right attorney can help. You can increase your chances of a positive outcome for your case by hiring a knowledgeable Thousand Oaks personal injury or wrongful death attorney who has experience going against government agencies.

Motorcycle Defects

When a design or manufacturing defect causes an accident, the damages can be substantial. Parts manufacturers have been found liable for their fair share of accidents in the past. If you’ve suffered serious injuries because of faulty equipment, a personal injury attorney at Maki Law Firm may be of assistance.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Thousand Oaks

Common injuries suffered in motorcycle crashes include road rash, facial fractures and disfigurement, broken bones, and burns. Injuries can range from minor to disabling, such as limb amputations, spinal cord injuries, paralysis, and traumatic brain injuries (TBI).

These are life-threatening personal injuries. When you suffer these injuries, you could face circumstances detrimental to your quality of life. These injuries can lead to disability and long-term or assisted care.

Protecting Riders’ Rights After Accidents on the Road

Contacting an experienced lawyer can help you protect your rights after a motorcycle crash. A Thousand Oaks attorney who understands personal injury laws and how to handle a motorcycle accident case can be beneficial to your claim.

An experienced lawyer can help you build and file a strong insurance claim, prevent you from being mistreated by the insurance company, and protect your legal rights every step of the way. A motorcycle accident lawyer will understand your rights, and they will know how to handle your case with your best interests in mind.

Contact a Thousand Oaks Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, Maki Law Firm can make sure your legal rights are protected. We have been helping injured motorcyclists win the compensation they deserve for years, and we can help you recover what you deserve from insurance companies.