Rear-End Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles, CA
You love riding your motorcycle, but every time you get on your bike, you take a risk. You know that you could get seriously injured in an accident, especially if a vehicle strikes your bike from behind. Get the facts about rear-end motorcycle accidents. Also, if you’ve been injured in such an accident, contact a Los Angeles rear-end motorcycle accident attorney for help.
Why Are Rear-End Accidents More Deadly for Motorcyclists?
Motorcyclists are always at greater risk when they get into accidents. The risk increases when the motorcyclist is involved in a rear-end motorcycle accident. The force of the vehicle can cause the motorcycle’s back wheel to lift off the pavement. When this happens, the motorcycle can pitch forward, depositing the driver onto the road.
Depending on how fast the driver was going when the collision occurred, he or she might not have time to stop the vehicle after the motorcyclist flies off the bike. Then, the driver could run over the motorcyclist. This is one reason why so many motorcycle accidents are fatal.
When a motorcycle is rear-ended, the force can also push it into the vehicle in front of it. The motorcycle and driver can get crushed between the two vehicles. This can cause serious internal injuries and can be fatal.
What Are The Common Causes of Rear-End Motorcycle Accidents?
A motorcycle can be rear-ended by a car for a variety of reasons:
- Often, it comes down to distracted driving. Many people contact a rear-end motorcycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles after getting hit by someone who was distracted by a cellphone, kids, or something else. When people take their eyes off the road to attend to something else, it puts other drivers at risk. Some of the deadliest rear-end motorcycle accidents occur due to distracted driving.
- Following too closely can also cause a motorcycle to be rear-ended by a car. Motorcycles don’t require as much space and time to come to a full stop. If a vehicle follows too closely behind, the driver might not have time to react if the motorcycle comes to a stop. Then, the driver collides with the motorcycle.
- Impaired driving is also a cause for concern. Alcohol and drugs impact the driver’s reaction time. If someone is under the influence, he or she is less likely to stop in time. Anyone who has been hit by an intoxicated driver should contact a rear-end motorcycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles for immediate help. Speeding can also lead to a rear-end motorcycle accident. Like drugs and alcohol, speeding impacts your ability to react. The faster a driver goes, the less time he or she has to hit the brakes and avoid a rear-end collision. Unfortunately, the consequences can be fatal.
How to Avoid a Rear-End Collision?
Rear-end collisions can be deadly, so take some steps to avoid an accident. These steps can save your life. First, don’t tailgate other vehicles. Your motorcycle could run into the back of a car if you tailgate too closely. Also, you might have to slam on the brakes if you’re following too closely. Then, the vehicle behind you might rear-end you. Avoid these problems by maintaining a safe distance at all times.
You also need to make sure other drivers can see you. Upgrade your motorcycle’s lights so they are bright and visible. Check them before each trip so you are sure they are in working order.
Also, take out your earplugs when you’re driving in traffic. As nice as it is to block out the noise, that noise can save your life. If your earplugs are in, you won’t hear the sound of screeching brakes behind you. You’ll have more time to react if you can hear an impending collision.
Finally, use your rearview mirrors when driving. Position the mirrors so you can see what is going on behind you. Keep your eyes open, and if you notice that someone is getting too close, move into the other lane when possible. Defensive driving is an excellent way to avoid a collision.
What Steps to Take If You Get Injured?
If your motorcycle has been rear-ended by a car and you’ve been injured, you need to take certain steps. First, seek immediate medical attention for your injuries. If you have a back or neck injury, you should be transported by ambulance. Do not try to move unless the EMTs tell you to do so.
Next, you should:
- Call law enforcement to the scene.
- Get contact information from the other party.
- Take photos from different angles.
- Get witness statements.
- File an insurance claim.
- Document your injuries.
- Contact a rear-end collision lawyer.
California has a two-year statute of limitations for car accidents. Don’t delay when contacting a rear-end motorcycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles. Your lawyer needs ample time to investigate the case and file the paperwork before the statute of limitations is up.
What Compensation Can a Motorcyclist Seek?
Your Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer will assess your injuries and the evidence to help you determine the damages you can collect. Each case is different, but many motorcyclists are eligible for economic and non-economic damages.
Economic damages refer to the compensation you can receive for the money you’ve lost as a result of the accident. This includes medical expenses and lost wages.
Noneconomic damages are subjective in nature and include:
- Pain and Suffering
- Emotional Distress
- Punitive Damages
Also, if you are suing on behalf of a loved one that passed away as a result of the accident, you can get damages related to wrongful death.
Contact the Best Rear-End Motorcycle Injury Lawyers
If your motorcycle was rear-ended, you’ve suffered through a traumatic event. It’s both mentally and physically traumatizing, and you probably feel like you’re out of control.
You can get some control back by contacting the best rear-end motorcycle injury lawyers in Los Angeles. Your legal team will assess your case and help you make a claim.
If you are owed damages, get the ball rolling by contacting an attorney today.