Motorcycle Accidents Lawyer Santa Monica, CA

When a motorcyclist is in a collision with another vehicle, they almost always lose; and when negligence is present, victims should reach out to a motorcycle accidents lawyer in Santa Monica, CA. There are several reasons motorcycle enthusiasts enjoy riding, and most skilled riders know the importance of safety on the road. Because of this and the risks associated with motorcycle accidents, putting safety at the forefront should be a top priority. However, despite these efforts, motorcycle accidents still happen, often producing devastating results. When faced with a collision, riders will have nothing to protect them from the impact, often resulting in significant damages. 

While it may be evident to the victim that the other party should be held responsible at times, it may be challenging to know how to move forward. Amidst the injuries and the pain, victims are likely to wonder about the value of their case and whether it’s worth pursuing a legal claim. Cohen Injury Firm knows that the road forward will be difficult for victims recovering from their injuries and suffering extreme hardship, which is why legal representation is imperative. Not only can our team provide essential representation, but we will also provide support and guidance aimed at strengthening the legal claim. 

Safety on the Open Road

The odds of suffering severe injuries, even death, when facing an accident are not in their favor for motorcycle riders. Despite this, enthusiastic motorcycle riders shouldn’t hang up their keys forever; but they should take every step necessary to ensure their safety while on their bike by:

• Always wear a helmet; not only is it the law, but it can also mitigate the severity of injuries
• Wear protective gear such as a jacket, long pants, eyewear, and boots
• Refrain from driving in inclement weather
• Make sure the motorcycle is in good working order
• Gain the necessary skills by engaging in motorcycle safety courses
• Only drive when alert, paying particular attention to road hazards and other vehicles on the road

Motorcycles are much smaller than cars and often are overlooked by other drivers on the road. Accidents involving motorcycles have a profound impact, and the injuries they may experience can include spinal cord injuries, head injuries, road rash, lacerations, broken bones, and more. These injuries can change a victim’s life forever, and the road ahead is sure to be full of trials and tribulations. When a motorcycle rider is injured due to another driver’s negligence, the support of our Santa Monica, CA motorcycle accidents lawyer is an appropriate next step. 

Damages from Motorcycle Accidents

Losses from motorcycle accidents can be severe for motorcycle accident victims. In a moment, their entire lives will change. Damages are a way of assigning a monetary value to those losses when victims take legal action. While nothing can change the events that transpired or the impactful injuries victims face, compensation in the form of a settlement is a way of helping them to get back on their feet and be made “whole” again. Determining what damages a victim may be entitled to is difficult to quantify without a lawyer, so their assistance is critical when pursuing a legal case. After reviewing the case, the circumstances surrounding the accident, and the injuries the victim is facing, victims may be entitled to damages that include:

• Property Damage
• Medical Expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost Wages
• Loss of Earning Capacity
• Pain and Suffering
• Punitive Damages

Damages from motorcycle accident cases can be significant; the case’s value will vary based on the extent of these damages. While some cases may settle for tens of thousands, others can be worth much more. However, to learn the total value of potential compensation, a victim should consult with a Santa Monica, CA motorcycle accidents lawyer from Cohen Injury Law Group, as soon as possible. 

Pursuing a Legal Claim

Taking legal action begins with seeking a consultation from a lawyer with experience in representing motorcycle accident cases. Once it is determined that negligence was a factor in the accident and that the damages are extensive enough to warrant legal action, victims and their lawyer can begin gathering evidence. Evidence is substantial because it proves that there was a breach of duty of care and that the accident caused the losses faced by the victim. There are two options for legal recourse, filing an insurance claim and pursuing a settlement or filing a lawsuit. In most cases, victims seek damages with an insurance claim to negotiate a fair settlement offer. Statistically speaking, most personal injury accident cases are settled outside the courtroom. Insurance claims can provide several advantages. They are likely to settle faster than in a court case, and there is a possibility that victims will be able to walk away with fair compensation for their losses. If parties cannot reach an agreement through negotiations, pursuing a lawsuit may be the appropriate option. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that while a successful outcome may result in a higher award, cases often take longer, and victims risk walking away empty-handed.  

Tips to Keep in Mind for Strengthening the Case

Taking legal action can be a rather stressful process, especially for victims who are in the process of recovery from the injuries and physical pain they have experienced as a result of the accident. A lawyer can help shoulder the burden by taking the lead in strategizing and representing the case. For the best possible outcome, it’s vital to keep the following in mind: 

• Contacting law enforcement at the scene of the accident (if able)
• Seeking medical care immediately
• Taking photos/videos of the accident scene and injuries
• Gathering as much evidence as possible
• Refraining from posting to social media
• Contacting an experienced lawyer

Keeping these tips at the forefront will help support the case and play a key role in the recovery process. Cohen Injury Firm has the necessary experience for victims who have suffered catastrophic injuries from motorcycle accidents. Timing is of the essence, and victims have a specific timeframe to take legal action for their losses. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in California is two years, and acting quickly will be imperative. Reach out to our motorcycle accidents lawyer in Santa Monica, CA, and schedule a consultation to get started.