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Motorcycle accident law in Los Angeles, California falls under personal injury law and addresses cases where motorcyclists are injured due to another party's negligence or reckless actions. This can be another motorist, a manufacturer of defective motorcycle parts, or a government entity failing to maintain safe road conditions. Victims may be entitled to compensations for medical expenses, lost income, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
If you're a motorcyclist involved in an accident, you often face an uphill battle. Many people carry biases towards motorcyclists, often blaming them for the accident regardless of the situation. It's also typically challenging to negotiate with insurance companies who aim to minimize payouts. Therefore, it's crucial to have a legal representative who can fight for your rights, help prove liability, accurately estimate the value of your damages, and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf. Additionally, if your case goes to court, having an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer is critical for presenting a strong case.
The key motorcycle laws in Los Angeles are similar to the rest of California. All riders are required to wear Department of Transportation-approved helmets. Lane splitting, riding between lanes or rows of slow traffic or stopped traffic, is legal in California but must be done safely. Regarding accident cases, California operates under a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages, although your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Under California law, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, how much work you've missed, the extent of your motorcycle damage, and other factors. Each case is unique.
Call the police to the scene, seek immediate medical attention even if you think you are fine, document the scene as much as you can, collect contact and insurance information, and do not admit any fault. Subsequently, consult a motorcycle accident lawyer.
Yes, under the pure comparative negligence rule, you can recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Having a lawyer greatly increases the chance of receiving a fair settlement. They can prove the other party's fault, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent you in court if necessary.
You may wish to contact the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for information on local motorcycle laws. The California Office of Traffic Safety also provides resources. Furthermore, Los Angeles has several local advocacy groups for motorcyclists that offer additional support and resources.
If you need legal assistance after a motorcycle accident, the first step is to consult a lawyer, preferably one specialized in motorcycle accidents. They can evaluate your case, guide you through your legal options, and help you draft a robust claim. Make sure to maintain all medical records, repair statements, and any other evidence related to the accident, as this will form the foundation of your case.
