Hawthorne Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Hawthorne, CA
Motorcycles can be a great way to travel, but they leave you at risk of deadly injuries in the case of an accident. If another driver caused an accident, a Hawthorne motorcycle accident lawyer can pursue compensation for your recovery.
Shaffer Law: Skilled Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
With over 30 years of experience, Shaffer Law can handle even the most complex or catastrophic motorcycle accident claim. We understand how challenging recovery is, and we can work tirelessly to pursue a full recovery for your case. Our lead attorney, Douglas D. Shaffer, has secured fair compensation for accident victims in Hawthorne and the surrounding area. Our knowledge of motorcycle accident laws and the claims process can guide you toward the recovery you need.
The Dangers of a Motorcycle Accident in California
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are not uncommon in California. In 2023, 583 motorcyclists were killed in accidents, making California the third-highest state for motorcyclist fatalities. Hawthorne motorcyclists face a higher risk around certain intersections, such as Crenshaw Boulevard & El Segundo Boulevard, where high speeds and improper turns can easily become deadly.
Motorcycle accident laws generally treat motorcyclists as other drivers. While they are subject to certain laws, such as helmet and license requirements, motorcyclists and other drivers must adhere to the same traffic laws. Common examples of traffic violations or negligent driving behavior that can cause a motorcycle accident include:
- Distracted driving
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Failing to make proper lane changes and check blind spots
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Opening car doors without checking for oncoming motorcyclists
Receiving Compensation in a Motorcycle Accident Claim
Receiving compensation is one of the biggest reasons to file a motorcycle accident claim. Compensation can help you recover from the losses an accident causes, allowing you to receive necessary care and avoid financial challenges. Some factors that may be included in your compensation are:
- Medical costs: The cost of medical treatments is one of the highest expenses after a crash. Emergency medical services, hospital stays, medication, and ongoing care are all examples of medical treatments that can be covered by compensation.
- Property damage: Personal belongings are often damaged during a motorcycle crash. While compensation can cover the cost of repairing your motorcycle, it can also cover repairs or replacements for other belongings, such as clothing or personal electronics.
- Lost wages: Many accident victims take time off from work to recover. While this can be medically necessary, it can also result in lost wages. Compensation can include lost income to mitigate financial hardship.
- Emotional distress: A motorcycle accident is one of the most mentally challenging events to recover from. Compensation can be increased to include the extreme stress, psychological disorders, and loss of quality of life from an accident.
- Punitive damages: Punitive damages are awarded in cases where the at-fault driver exhibited extreme recklessness rather than being awarded to reflect the certain damage you have faced.
Why You Should Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
When preparing to file a claim, a lawyer can gather evidence to prove who is at fault for an accident and what damages you have suffered. To determine liability, they may collect evidence such as police reports, video footage, witness statements, and photographs of the accident scene. A lawyer can make certain your claim is filed against the right party, highlighting how their traffic violations or reckless behavior caused the crash.
A Hawthorne motorcycle accident attorney can also prove what damages you sustained and negotiate for fair compensation. They can evaluate medical records, repair invoices, and pay stubs to determine what losses you have suffered. A lawyer can work to achieve an award that covers all of your damages, preventing you from settling for an award that is too low.
FAQs
Is California an At-Fault State for Motorcycle Accidents?
Yes, California is an at-fault state for motorcycle accidents. This means crash victims can file a claim against the at-fault driver to receive compensation rather than through their own insurance provider. Being an at-fault state also allows victims to file for a greater number of damages, such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress. A lawyer can identify who to file a claim against and build a comprehensive claim that covers each one of your damages.
Can a Motorcyclist Share Fault for an Accident in California?
Yes, a motorcyclist can share fault for an accident in California. California follows a pure comparative negligence system, which allows you to recover damages even if you are partially at fault. However, your compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault you have. Common examples of a motorcyclist having partial fault include if they were speeding, making improper lane changes, or recklessly lane splitting.
What if the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Does Not Cover Your Damages?
If the at-fault driver’s insurance does not cover all of your damages or is under California’s minimum coverage, you should hire a motorcycle accident lawyer to help you file a personal injury claim. California’s minimum coverage requirements are $30,000 per person for bodily injury, $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $15,000 per accident for property damage. A lawyer can help you file a claim directly against the driver or through your own insurance.
What Is the Time Limit for a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Hawthorne, CA?
In Hawthorne, CA, a motorcycle accident claim must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may not be able to file or receive compensation. To meet this deadline, contact a Hawthorne motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer can work swiftly to gather evidence, build a legal strategy, and get your claim filed within the time limit.
Contact a Hawthorne Motorcycle Accident Attorney
The impacts of a motorcycle accident can be painful, long-lasting, and financially devastating. During this difficult recovery, filing a motorcycle crash claim compounds your stress. At Shaffer Law, we seek to make this process easier by managing the legal requirements, pursuing the compensation you deserve, and minimizing the negative repercussions of a crash on your life. Contact us today for a free case consultation to learn how filing a claim can help you recover.
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