Skilled Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Los Angeles, California
California has more motorcycles on its roads than any other state, with approximately 800,000. Because of the high number, the chances of riders being involved in a vehicle collision are higher than in most states. Unfortunately, that means motorcycle accident injuries and fatalities also increase.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, nearly 12,000 people are injured yearly, and over 550 people are killed in motorcycle accidents in California. Los Angeles County had the most motorcycle accidents last year with 2,803.
Our Los Angeles motorcycle accident and injury attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto successfully represent California riders who are being met with resistance from the insurance company that should openly provide financial restitution for their medical bills, lost wages, and the additional expenses they face after an injury.
During a free consultation, we can provide a free case assessment based on the details of your accident and injury circumstances. Contact us to learn more.
What are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents, Injuries, and Fatalities in Los Angeles, California?
Motorists can crash into motorcyclists for various reasons, often due to negligent factors that affect their ability to detect and respond to motorcycles on the road. When they do, motorcycle riders are four times as likely to be injured and 24 times more likely to die in an accident.
Some of the most common causes of motorists crashing into motorcyclists include:
- Failure to See Motorcycles
One of the most prevalent reasons for accidents involving motorcyclists is that motorists fail to see them. Motorcycles are smaller and less conspicuous than cars and trucks, making them easier to overlook, especially when changing lanes, merging onto highways, or making left-hand turns at intersections.
- Left-Turn Accidents
Accidents often occur when a motorist makes a left-hand turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. This type of collision typically happens when the motorist misjudges the motorcyclist’s speed or fails to see them approaching.
- Right-of-Way Violations
Motorists may violate a motorcyclist’s right of way at intersections or during lane changes, leading to collisions. This can happen when drivers fail to yield, run red lights or stop signs, or ignore traffic signals.
- Distracted Driving
Using a mobile phone, adjusting the radio, eating, or engaging in other distractions while driving can reduce a motorist’s attention to the road and increase the risk of colliding with a motorcyclist.
- Driver Fatigue
Fatigued drivers are less alert and may have slower reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents involving motorcyclists.
- Driving Under the Influence
Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, can impair a motorist’s judgment, reaction time, and ability to detect motorcycles.
- Unsafe Lane Changes
When motorists change lanes without properly checking their blind spots, they may inadvertently merge into a motorcyclist’s path, causing a collision.
- Tailgating
Following too closely behind a motorcycle does not provide enough reaction time to avoid a collision if the motorcyclist suddenly slows down or stops.
- Aggressive Driving
Aggressive behaviors, such as aggressive passing, road rage, and weaving in and out of traffic, can put motorcyclists at risk.
To reduce the risk of accidents involving motorcyclists, motorists should always be attentive, avoid distractions, check blind spots before changing lanes, maintain a safe following distance, and be aware of the presence of motorcycles on the road.
- Failure to Use Turn Signals
Motorists who do not use their turn signals or misuse them can confuse motorcyclists and make it difficult to anticipate the driver’s intentions.
- Inattention to Traffic Conditions
Failing to adapt to changing traffic conditions, such as sudden stops in congested traffic, can lead to rear-end collisions with motorcyclists.
When drivers negligently operate their vehicles and collide with a motorcyclist, the rider pays the price. We want to help all California riders hold the motorists who caused their crash injuries or the loss of their loved ones liable for their entire financial recovery, starting with a free consultation.
We Also Focus on the Following Practice Areas in Los Angeles:
Contact Our Accomplished Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles, California Today
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident caused by negligence in California, contact our experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorneys at Hanning & Sacchetto in Los Angeles at (562)-698-6446 to schedule a free consultation and learn how our experience can help you and your family recover financially.