Due to the beautiful scenery and mild weather, California leads in the number of bikers residing in the country. In California alone, there are more than 950k motorcycles registered, according to IIHS (Insurance for Highway Safety) report.
Riding a motorcycle is also a very popular recreational pursuit, not to mention a very convenient commuting option in the state. But it is also among the riskiest forms of motorized transportation.
Statistics from OTS (California Office of Traffic Safety) show that there are hundreds of motorcycle accidents yearly in this state. And while there are fewer bikers on the road compared to passenger cars, considering the lack of motorcyclist protection and weight disparity, the rate of fatality for bikers is higher.
Risk Factors
Every motorcycle passenger and rider is at risk of death or injury while on the road. Even the most experienced motorcyclists could be at a greater risk of a serious accident.
But there are a couple of factors, which can place some motorcyclists at risk of death and motorcycle injuries, like the following:
- Time of the year
- Engine size
- Alcohol impairment
- Unlicensed riders
- Sex
- Age
- Helmet
Motorcycle Accident Laws in the State
Traffic laws in the state define all the consequences of unlawful or negligent actions in a motorcycle accident. These laws lay out the expectations every motorcycle operator should adhere to. Though they as well lay out what injured bikers may do when the fault is theirs.
For instance, traffic laws in California require every car, passenger vehicles included, to yield the right of way to the oncoming traffic while making left turns. If automobile operators fail to do so and end up injuring motorcyclists, those operators may face jail time, criminal charges, civil action, and fines, to mention a few.
Unfortunately, a left-turn motorcycle accident is among the most common accidents at present. It also represents more than 40% of accidents involving automobiles.
Motorcycle Accident Injuries
The compensation you will receive following a motorcycle accident may make a great difference in the future and now. The injuries could be so serious that healthcare would be required in the weeks and months down the road.
Serious injuries may lead to disfigurement or disabilities for victims, and the settlement provided must factor in the physical therapies, surgeries, and medical equipment required in the future. Some of these injuries may include:
- Chest injuries
- Road rash
- Fractures
- Brain injury or concussion
- Blunt force trauma
Filing a Motorcycle Accident Case
A couple of factors affect bikers’ potential claims after a fatal motorcycle accident. One of these is insurance & motor vehicle regulations in the state, compliance with traffic laws, liability, crashworthiness of motorcycles, and medical treatment issues.
Based on the causes of a motorcycle accident, proving who is at fault can be challenging, especially if the riders’ actions resulted in the accident. This is why you might want to hire an attorney to guide you through accordingly.
Closing Remarks!
Motorcycle cases can be more challenging to settle compared to accidents between vehicles. Whether or not you realize it, you can up against a motorcycle bias. This is why it is best to hire a professional motorcycle accident in California to advocate and fight for your rights.
