Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Fullerton, CA

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency phone number of the Fullerton Police Department is 714-738-6700.

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

  You may get a copy of an accident report through the official website of the Fullerton Police Department's Public Records Center: https://fullerton.govqa.us/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(gwn4frvp3eil5xj1q2vrx1jk))/SupportHome.aspx.

• What are the usual causes of motorcycle accidents in Fullerton?

  The most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Fullerton include distracted driving, failing to check blind spots, driving too fast for the road conditions, failing to yield to the motorcyclist, and running a stop sign or traffic light. People also tend to drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and change or split lanes unsafely.

• What are the most dangerous intersections in Fullerton for motorcycle riders?

  Motorcyclists must remain careful and cautious at all times when operating their vehicles in Fullerton, especially when driving through any of the following intersections in the city:

  • Euclid St. and Orangethorpe Ave.
  • Chapman Ave. and Harbor Blvd.
  • Commonwealth Ave. and Harbor Blvd.
  • Harbor Blvd. and Orangethorpe Ave.
  • Chapman Ave. and Commonwealth Ave.
  • Acacia Ave. and Kimberly Ave.
  • Gilbert St. and Rosecrans Ave.

• Can you still recover damages if you are partly at fault for your motorcycle accident in Fullerton?

  Fullerton follows California’s comparative negligence rule regarding accidents wherein both parties share a degree of blame for the incident. Under this system, you may still be able to get compensation for your losses, but your total award will be proportionally reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident.

• Are you required to wear a helmet in Fullerton?

  According to California Vehicle Code 27803, motorcycle riders, including the passenger, in Fullerton must wear a safety helmet at all times while operating a motorcycle, a motor-driven cycle, or a motorized bicycle. Additionally, the helmet they choose to wear must conform to the standards set forth by the United States Department of Transportation under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard.

• Can teenagers legally operate a motorcycle in Fullerton?

  Teenagers at least 15 and a half can legally operate a motorcycle in Fullerton under a motorcycle permit. Still, they must adhere to the strict rules set by California’s DMV. To be issued a permit to drive a motorcycle, individuals under the age of 21 must first complete a motorcycle rider training course approved by the CHP and provide a DL 389 form. They then must hold the learner’s permit for a minimum of six months before being eligible to apply for a motorcycle license.

• 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.