Motorcycle accidents often result in devastating injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. In Corona, where motorcyclists frequently navigate busy highways like the 91 and I-15, accidents are unfortunately all too common. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, our experienced Corona motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help. We’ll fight to secure the compensation you need to recover and rebuild your life.
Motorcycle Accidents in Corona: The Unique Risks Riders Face
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable on the road due to their smaller size, limited visibility to other drivers, and lack of safety features like seat belts or airbags. Accidents often occur at intersections, on highways, or due to unsafe road conditions. Understanding the causes of these accidents can help establish liability in your claim.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result from negligence by other drivers or hazardous conditions. Here are some of the leading causes:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, using GPS, or otherwise distracted often fail to notice motorcycles, leading to collisions. Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of accidents, as discussed in our guide on the impact of distractions on accident liability.
- Left-Turn Collisions: Many motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle makes a left turn across the rider’s path. This type of collision is particularly dangerous and frequently results in severe injuries.
- Lane-Splitting: While legal in California, lane-splitting can lead to accidents if drivers fail to check their blind spots. For more on legal complexities involving motorcycles, see our post on high-risk road behaviors.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Speeding by either the motorcyclist or other drivers can increase the severity of an accident. Learn about the risks of reckless driving in our blog on common vehicle accident causes.
- Dangerous Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, and poor signage can make riding hazardous. Liability for such conditions may rest with the city or state agency responsible for road maintenance.
- Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of drugs or alcohol have reduced reaction times, increasing the risk of collisions. DUI-related accidents often involve severe consequences, as explained in our blog on liability in DUI cases.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of physical protection. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even with helmets, riders may sustain head injuries that cause long-term cognitive and emotional challenges.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, requiring lifelong medical care.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Motorcyclists frequently suffer broken legs, arms, ribs, and other fractures due to the impact.
- Road Rash: Abrasions caused by sliding across the pavement can lead to infections and permanent scarring. For insight into injury recovery, see our guide on managing personal injury claims.
- Internal Injuries: Damage to internal organs or internal bleeding may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening.
Liability in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Establishing liability is crucial to recovering compensation in a motorcycle accident claim. Responsible parties may include:
- Other Drivers: Negligent actions such as speeding, distracted driving, or failure to yield can make drivers liable.
- Government Agencies: Poorly maintained roads or lack of proper signage may place liability on public agencies.
- Manufacturers: If a defect in the motorcycle or a vehicle involved caused the accident, the manufacturer may be held responsible.
For more on navigating liability in accidents, read our post on understanding complex injury claims.
Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims
Motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation for various damages, including:
- Medical Expenses: Covers current and future medical costs, including surgeries, physical therapy, and medications.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation for time missed from work and reduced earning potential due to injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for the physical and emotional pain caused by the accident.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for repairs or replacement of the damaged motorcycle and gear.
- Punitive Damages: In cases involving egregious negligence, such as DUI accidents, punitive damages may apply.
Why You Need an Experienced Corona Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Motorcycle accident claims often involve unique challenges, including bias against motorcyclists and the complexity of proving liability. Here’s how we can help:
- Thorough Investigation: We collect police reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a strong case. Learn about evidence collection in our post on proving fault in accident claims.
- Maximizing Compensation: Our attorneys work with medical and economic experts to ensure all current and future damages are accounted for.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: We handle communications with insurance adjusters who often try to minimize payouts.
- Court Representation: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Claims
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. If a government agency is involved, such as in cases of poor road maintenance, the deadline may be shorter. Acting promptly is essential to protecting your rights.
Contact Our Corona Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, our Corona attorneys are here to help. We’ll fight for the compensation you need to cover medical bills, lost wages, and more, so you can focus on recovery.
Call us today at (877) 659-9223 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing.
