Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Burbank

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Burbank, California?

  +1 818-238-3000 is the non-emergency contact number for the Burbank Police Department.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Burbank, California?

  You can obtain a copy of the police report for a motorcycle accident in the Burbank Records Bureau or online. You can request a copy of the Burbank accident report at least four days following the collision.

• What should you do if you are a victim of a motorcycle accident in Burbank?

  Seek medical assistance first. Remain at the accident scene. Photograph your injuries and the accident scene immediately before the Burbank highway patrol cleans up the wreckage. Collect information from the people involved, including contact information for witnesses. Minimize your statements, especially on your health, driving, or role in the accident.

• Why do you need a Burbank motorcycle accident attorney for the investigation?

  A Burbank lawyer with experience in motorcycle accident law knows what to look for throughout the investigation and what to expect from the defense and insurance providers. The accident scene may not be adequately described in police reports, and they may even be biased in favor of the motorist.

• What happens if you file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Burbank?

  Several results are possible if you decide to file a lawsuit following a motorcycle collision. The matter may proceed to trial or be resolved through arbitration or settlement. Hiring an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Burbank is typically your best protection against insurance companies' attempts to settle your claim for less.

• What injuries are usually suffered by Burbank motorcycle accident victims?

  Burbank motorcycle accident victims often suffer road rash, broken bones, disfigurement, and spinal cord and brain injuries. The head and face are the parts of the body most commonly injured in traffic accidents involving motorcycle riders, as the rider tends to strike the asphalt directly upon impact. Therefore, it is imperative that motorcycle riders wear safety helmets to prevent injuries resulting from an accident or fall.

• How do you mentally recover after a motorcycle accident in Burbank?

  Some motorcycle accident victims recover through mental health counseling. You can also join a support group in Burbank and prioritize rest to heal from traumatic motorcycle collisions. Many victims of motorcycle accidents take comfort in conversing with other motorcyclists who have been in accidents. While your relatives and friends may not fully get the dread and anxiety you felt after your accident, other riders are often able to sympathize.

• What does a motorcycle accident attorney do?

  Motorcycle accident attorneys provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent accident victims in and out of court. They investigate the cause of collisions, establish fault, value claims, prepare legal documents, and fight to recover adequate compensation for their clients. Most lawyers in this practice area also handle car and truck accidents and other personal injury claims.

• What is my motorcycle accident injury claim worth?

  Injured motorcyclists may be eligible for several types of compensation depending on their losses, state of residence, and level of fault. Whether or not they were wearing a helmet may also come into play. A lawyer can help to evaluate claims based on medical expenses, property damage, past and future lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

• How long after a motorcycle accident can you claim an injury?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, each state has its own rules. In Tennessee and Louisiana, for example, victims of motorcycle accidents have just one year to file a lawsuit. In Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, individuals have up to six years to initiate a claim.

• What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident injury?

  Based on eight years of national data, the average verdict in motorcycle accident cases ranges from $74,000 to $560,000. Also note that the majority of claims are settled out of court. Riders may receive compensatory damages for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, as well as general damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Additionally, in states that follow a comparative negligence model, the plaintiff’s claim may be reduced according to his or her level of fault.

• What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?

  The steps that you take immediately after a collision can be instrumental in proving an accident or injury claim. In general, you should follow these guidelines:

  • Gather insurance and contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact law enforcement to report the collision and complete an accident report.
  • Document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
  • Visit a doctor or hospital within 24 hours.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

  
  

• How does the motorcycle injury claim process work?

  Motorcycle accident cases typically start with an insurance claim. After documenting their client’s losses and establishing fault, attorneys generally prepare a demand letter requesting compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. It can take anywhere from one to six months for insurance adjusters to make a settlement offer. If the company denies the claim or the parties can’t reach an agreement, the lawyer can prepare a notice of intent to sue and file a formal lawsuit with the appropriate court.

• How do many motorcycle crashes happen?

  The most common causes for motorcycle collisions are drunk driving, exceeding the speed limit, and left turns. In 42% of all motorcycle collision fatalities, another vehicle turned left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by dangerous road conditions, such as crumbling pavement, debris in the road, and potholes. Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, lane splitting, inexperienced drivers, motorcycle defects, and car doors opened in the path of a motorcycle.

• How many motorcyclists get into accidents?

  In 2017, of the over 8 million motorcycle riders that year, approximately 89,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents and over 5,000 motorcycle collisions resulted in fatalities. The fatality rate for 100 million miles driven is 25.67, which is largely attributed to the lack of helmet use. Most fatal crashes involving motorcycles happened during the heaviest traffic times between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

• Are motorcycles more dangerous than cars?

  Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because they lack any protection for the rider in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash and more than five times more likely to be injured than those riding in enclosed vehicles. Because of their small size, motorcycles’ lack of visibility is a major contributing factor in collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are also more vulnerable to weather conditions and road hazards than other automobiles.

• How do you check a motorcycle after a crash?

  For a minor crash with no injuries, the immediate danger is being struck again by oncoming traffic, so moving your bike off of the road as soon as possible is imperative. Check your mirrors, brake lights, headlight, and controls. You should also check to make sure there is no leaking fluid, such as fuel or oil.