When you are injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to know who can be held liable for your damages. This may include the drivers of other vehicles, motorcycle or parts manufacturers, and even government entities. Due to the complex nature of these cases, it is always best to discuss your accident with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can investigate the crash to determine who can be sued for compensation.
California is a pure comparative negligence state. This means that you may be entitled to take legal action following a motorcycle accident even if your own actions played a role in the crash. Compensation will, however, be diminished by whatever percentage it is deemed your actions contributed.
How Much Does a Motorcycle Accident Cost?
The cost of a motorcycle accident can vary widely depending on how severe it was. Common motorcycle accident costs include:
- Property damage
- Medical expenses
When an injury is mild, compensation for these damages can often be obtained through an insurance claim. It is when a serious or fatal injury is involved that an attorney is needed.
Compensation for serious injury in a motorcycle accident may include property damage and medical expenses, but may also include:
- Ongoing rehabilitation expenses
- Current and projected future lost wages
- Necessary home modifications
- Adaptive technology (wheelchairs, etc.)
- Loss of quality of life
- Physical and emotional suffering
These types of damages often result in large settlements that are intended to provide coverage for all of the damages related to an accident. It is highly unlikely that you will receive compensation for many of these damages without the assistance of a motorcycle accident attorney.
How Much is a Good Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident?
A good settlement for a motorcycle accident is one that includes coverage for both current and expected economic damages along with compensation for pain and suffering. In cases of wrongful death, a good settlement will include additional damages for things like:
- Lost retirement benefits
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of community
- End of life expenses
As with nonfatal motorcycle accident claims, it is best to speak to an attorney before accepting an insurance settlement to make sure you are not being cheated out of fair and full compensation.
We can Help
Kirtland & Packard has a long history of helping motorcyclists who have been injured get the compensation they need to carry on. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in the South Bay area, including the communities of Manhattan Beach and Torrance, we welcome an opportunity to review your case free of charge and help you decide on the best course of action.
It can be scary to seek compensation on your own. Worse still, this route often leads to inadequate settlements. Working with a skilled and experienced attorney is a good way to protect your best interests while seeking compensation that is in line with the severity of your injury.
To schedule a free consultation at our Redondo Beach office, please call (310) 536-1000 today.