Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Salinas, CA

FAQs

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

  (831) 758-7321 is the non-emergency contact number for the Salinas Police Department.

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

  You can request a copy of the accident report virtually, either through BuyCrash or https://secure.coplogic.com/rar/en/filing/showdisclaimer?dynparam=1617309153627. You may also contact the Salinas Police Department's Records Unit at (831) 758-7090 (option 2 for Police Services Group).

• What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Salinas?

  Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Salinas are drivers changing lanes without noticing a motorcycle in the lane next to their vehicle, failing to yield the right-of-way, and turning right when a motorcyclist is traveling straight ahead with traffic. Other causes include driving in dangerous road conditions or under the influence of substances. Additionally, rear-end crashes happen when a driver follows too closely behind the motorcycle in front.

• Is it required to wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle in Salinas?

  Yes, not wearing a helmet when riding a motorcycle in Salinas is illegal. According to California law, all riders and passengers should wear a safety helmet when riding motorcycles, motorized bicycles, or motor-driven cycles. The helmet should meet U.S. DOT safety standards and have DOT lettering applied by the manufacturer on the back. It should also fit the rider's head properly while fastened with straps. There should be no defects, such as frayed straps, loose padding, or cracks.

• How long after a motorcycle accident in Salinas can you sue the at-fault party?

  In Salinas, you should file a motorcycle accident claim within two years from the date of the crash. If your loved one died in a motorcycle wreck, you have two years to file a wrongful death claim from the date of death. However, if you are suing a government entity or the State of California, you only have six months to file for compensation. Another exception is when the victim of the motorcycle accident is a minor.

• What are the most dangerous intersections in Salinas?

  Some of the most dangerous intersections in Salinas are:

  • East Laurel Drive & Natividad Road
  • Boronda Road & Natividad Road
  • Boronda Road & McKinnon Street
  • East Alisal Street & Sanborn Road
  • West Alisal Street & Salinas Street
  • Garner Avenue & Sanborn Road
  • North Main Street & Boronda Road
  • North Main Street & Laurel Drive
  • Constitution Boulevard & Laurel Drive
  • North Main Street & Iris Drive

• What are the common types of injuries in a motorcycle accident in Salinas?

  The common types of injuries sustained by individuals involved in a motorcycle accident in Salinas are:

  • broken bones with multiple fractures
  • burns that result in disfigurement and permanent scarring
  • lacerations and cuts that potentially result in limb loss
  • head injuries such as skull fractures and concussions
  • spinal cord or column injuries resulting in permanent paralysis
  • road rash
  • back and neck injuries, including whiplash

• 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.