Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Oxnard, Ventura County

Written by: Chad M. Prentice

Motorcyclists have a high risk of death when they get into a motorcycle accident because their injuries are often more severe than passenger vehicle driver accidents. One of the main reasons motorcycle accidents happen is distracted driving. That is why receiving compensation for an accident you didn’t cause is fair. After you’ve been in an accident, you should seek counsel with a proven attorney. An Oxnard motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you on the steps to obtaining compensation from the party responsible for your injuries. They can review your case and determine whether you are owed compensation since they are well-versed in motorcycle crashes and what damages may be due. Call Maho Prentice LLC for a free consultation to find out more information.

Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accident injuries can happen for a wide variety of reasons, including the following: 

Left Turn Accidents

One of the most frequent causes of motorcycle crashes is left-turn accidents. They happen when a driver turns left without realizing that a motorcycle is in the oncoming traffic or in an adjacent lane. Motorcycles are smaller vehicles and sometimes more difficult to see. The driver may think the road is empty and crash into a motorcycle. 

Blind Spot Accidents

Riders might not know if they are in a driver’s blind spot when motorcycle riding. Drivers may find it difficult to see you because you are in their blind spot. When this happens, they can change lanes and collide with your motorcycle without realizing you’re there.

Distracted Driving

Many accidents are often the result of distracted driving. This is when the driver’s behavior is careless because they are texting or doing other activities on their cellphone. They also may be distracted by other passengers in their vehicle. When they don’t pay attention to the road, they can cause a serious motorcycle accident. 

Poor Weather

Heavy rain, snow, or other inclement weather can be the cause of a serious crash. Slippery streets are one of the most common causes of accidents because they can reduce the traction of motorcycle wheels. When the roads are slick, stopping distances are longer and it is easier for vehicles to lose control. It is recommended to reduce your speed by one-third of the speed limit if it is raining and one-half if it is snowing. 

Road Obstacles

Objects on the road can create hazards for motorcyclists and drivers alike. For example, an animal may cross the road unexpectedly. There may also be dangerous debris lying in the road. In some parts of California, mudslides and other events can create problems for motorcyclists and drivers. 

Drunk Driving

Substance abuse can lead to fatal accidents and often leaves the families of accident victims devastated when they are the cause of wrongful death. This can happen when the other party is under the influence while operating their vehicle. 

Open Car Doors

Motorcyclists may get injured when a driver carelessly leaves their door open, creating an unavoidable road hazard. If the motorcyclist doesn’t swerve quickly enough or slow down in time, they can collide with the car door and get serious injuries.

Improper Lane Changes

Drivers don’t always follow the rules of the road and may cut off other drivers without giving them enough room. Aggressive drivers may swerve in and out of traffic and switch lanes without signaling, resulting in a crash. 

Not Yielding or Ignoring Traffic Signs

Motorcycle crashes can also happen when a driver doesn’t yield or stop when they are supposed to. They may also pass red lights without stopping and ignore traffic signals because of their impatience. 

Who Is At Fault?

Motorcycle accidents can be the driver’s fault; however, it is important to get advice from motorcycle accident attorneys before you pursue compensation. A reliable law firm can review your case and find out if you are eligible for maximum compensation based on the evidence and the factors surrounding your accident. If you are partially at fault, accident lawyers can determine your percentage of fault and help you obtain a fair settlement. This is because of the Comparative Fault Law in Oxnard, California, which states that you can still receive compensation even if you contributed to the motor vehicle accident. 

Should I See A Doctor?

Once you’ve been in a collision, you must see a doctor. Traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, deep lacerations, internal organ damage, and other forms of personal injury can likely happen. Your doctor can discover your injuries and help you recover with proper medical care. When you know all of your damages, you can recover the maximum amount with the help of your motorcycle accident attorney. If you wait too long, this can weaken your settlement claim. The other party’s insurance company may argue that some of your wounds weren’t caused by the crash or they weren’t serious enough to be treated immediately. 

Medical bills can be expensive, but even if they are unaffordable, you will receive help once your Ventura County attorney helps you by initiating a settlement claim. They can also provide other resources, such as helping you find pre-settlement funding to make life easier while you wait for your compensation. 

What Damages Can I Claim?

In addition to medical bills, you can also claim future and present lost wages, pain and suffering damages, and property damage if your bike was totaled. In the case of wrongful death, there are additional damages you can claim, such as loss of consortium, funeral bills, and more. Motorcycle accident lawyers can provide legal advice on the specific damages you can include in your settlement. 

What Should I Do If the Oxnard Motorcycle Accident Wasn’t My Fault?

Before you consider filing a personal injury lawsuit, you will want to consult with Oxnard motorcycle accident lawyers first. Most motorcycle crash cases are settled with insurance companies before you go to court. Oxnard motorcycle accident lawyers can reach out to the other party responsible for your motorcycle crash injuries and negotiate a settlement on your behalf. Your law firm will investigate your case and accurately calculate what types of damages you are owed. Work with a dedicated law firm that understands your needs and the struggle you are experiencing. Once our attorneys are involved, you can expect professionalism and expedient results. You can learn more about how to move forward by contacting Maho Prentice LLC today for a free consultation.