Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Sacramento

Serious Lawyers for Serious Accident Claims

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Authority, an astounding 80% of crashes involving a motorcycle result in injury or death, compared to the 20% injury rate for auto collisions. Victims of motorcycle collisions often suffer highly traumatic injuries, which leave a tidal wave of hospital bills, therapy bills, and other expenses in their wake. And, all too often, such crashes result in the wrongful death of the motorcycle rider, who leaves behind a grieving family.

Whatever the circumstances, at Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora, we understand that you need financial help to move forward after such an event. You need a strong ally to stand up against large insurance companies, national corporations, government entities, manufacturers, and other opposing parties. Our Sacramento motorcycle accident lawyers are here to champion your case and help you pursue the best results in your particular situation.

We handle catastrophic motorcycle injury cases throughout California and across the U.S. Call us at (916) 999-9132 or send us a message to schedule a free consultation with one of our motorcycle accident lawyers in Sacramento. We can help you seek fair compensation.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

When dealing with a motorcycle incident claim, it is helpful to have an attorney who understands the topic inside and out. Our attorneys have helped multiple motorcycle collision victims throughout the years. We know the factors that play a role in such cases. One thing we have learned: although motorcyclists can and do make errors, collisions often happen because drivers violate a biker’s right-of-way.

Bad driver conduct includes:

• Making a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle
• Pulling out from a driveway, alleyway, or side street into a motorcyclist’s path
• Changing lanes without double-checking blind spots
• Following or passing too closely
• Opening a car door without checking for approaching motorcyclists or bicyclists
• Just failing to see the motorcycle because of driver inattention or carelessness

As every motorcyclist knows, their bikes are more likely to slip under a driver’s radar or have their speed underestimated. We understand how these kinds of collisions happen and use this knowledge to build and support a client’s claim.

Seeking Compensation for Your Injuries

When a motorcycle and a car collide, it is obvious who is likely to lose.

Not only are vehicles much bigger, but they also provide more protection for drivers and passengers. Motorcyclists do not have that kind of protection and can be injured in a variety of ways, including from impact with the vehicle itself, when their bike lands on top of them, or when they are thrown from it. As a result, catastrophic injuries are common.

If you are filing a claim after being permanently disabled, including from a brain injury or spinal cord injury, you need a lawyer who understands how to ensure you receive the proper medical care for as long as it is required. Our team works with medical professionals and other experts to ensure we understand the full extent of injuries to inform claims of compensation.

Motorcycle collision victims will deal with the challenges and damages they sustained for years after the collision. Most insurers will not offer to compensate for such losses on their own, so your attorney must know where to look and how to advocate for you.

Our team can help you recover compensation for:

• Medical bills
• Future medical needs
• Rehabilitation/therapy
• Lost wages
• Lost earning capacity
• Disfigurement
• Accommodations and assistive devices
• Household or personal aid
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish

Often, the costs that arise right after a collision are a small percentage of the amount the victim will end up paying for their injuries. Therefore, even if a settlement offer seems generous, be sure you talk to an attorney before accepting a check or signing any documents. Our team at Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora can help you understand what a fair settlement looks like and build a strategy to advocate for you.

Millions Recovered for Injured Motorcyclists

Here are a few of the motorcycle accident cases we have handled:

• Kickstand catches on the ground — Our client was riding around a curve when the kickstand of his motorcycle snagged on the ground, causing him to lose control. He suffered an injury to his leg that required several surgeries to repair. Our law firm argued that a product defect and negligent maintenance led to the accident, and we obtained $2.8 million for our client.
• Crash on freeway — Our client was “lane splitting” on a freeway when an inattentive driver hit him, causing a partial loss of vision in one eye. We recovered over $1,000,0000 in the settlement of that case.
• Bike strikes hoses that fell from truck — Mr. Hernandez was riding his motorcycle in Sacramento when he suddenly encountered several concrete hoses that fell from the back of a truck. The crash injured his back, shoulder, and thumb, requiring several surgeries and six months off work. We obtained a $625,000 settlement for him.
• Crash involving right-of-way violation — In this case, the defendant violated our client’s right-of-way and collided with his motorcycle. Our law firm conducted an extensive liability investigation and efficiently settled the claim for $300,000.

Debunking Common Motorcycle Myths

Myth #1: Motorcyclists are always at fault for accidents

Contrary to popular belief, motorcyclists are not always at fault for accidents. In fact, according to a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study, the majority of motorcycle accidents involving other vehicles are caused by the other driver's failure to yield or recognize the motorcyclist. It is essential for both motorcyclists and other drivers to be aware of their surroundings and share the road responsibly to prevent accidents.

Myth #2: Wearing a helmet increases the risk of neck injuries

Some people believe that wearing a helmet can increase the risk of neck injuries in the event of an accident. However, this myth has been debunked by numerous studies, including one conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which found that helmets significantly reduce the risk of head and neck injuries. In California, wearing a helmet is also required by law under the California Vehicle Code Section 27803.

Myth #3: Lane splitting is always illegal and dangerous

Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is a common practice among motorcyclists. While it can be dangerous if done irresponsibly, it is not always illegal in California. In 2016, the state became the first in the U.S. to formally legalize lane splitting, as long as it is done safely and at a reasonable speed. Motorcyclists should familiarize themselves with the California Highway Patrol's guidelines for safe lane splitting to reduce the risk of accidents.

Myth #4: Most motorcycle accidents are caused by speeding

While speeding can contribute to accidents, it is not the leading cause of motorcycle accidents in California. According to the NHTSA, the most common cause of motorcycle accidents is the failure of other drivers to detect and recognize motorcyclists in traffic. This highlights the importance of both motorcyclists and drivers being vigilant and attentive on the road.

Myth #5: You don't need a lawyer if you're not at fault

Even if you believe you are not at fault for a motorcycle accident, it is still crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or deny it altogether, and a skilled lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

Let Us Help You Understand Your Options

If you reach out to Dreyer Babich Buccola Wood Campora after an accident, you will speak directly to an attorney rather than an intermediary. This is because we take your case seriously.

Our lawyers get to know each client individually because doing so allows us to craft personalized strategies that meet your goals. We also like to sit down with you to ensure you fully understand your rights and options. The law can be complex, but our Sacramento motorcycle accident attorneys know how to simplify legalese into language you can understand.

We are dedicated to fighting for the injured and have nearly 35 years of experience helping people like you secure compensation after an accident. We understand you have a lot happening in your life, which is why we take the lead on your claim. You can rest assured we will be your advocates while you tend to your personal needs.

Call us at (916) 999-9132 or send us a message to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.