California personal injury law surrounding motorcycle and bicycle accidents can be complex. Fortunately, our frequently asked questions articles can demystify some of the process.

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  • The insurance adjuster has been easy to work with following my motorcycle accident. The motorist was to blame and my claim seems pretty straightforward. Should I still hire a lawyer?

    The insurance adjuster may act like your friend.  He may even stop by your house to talk to you about your case.  However, don’t be confused.  The insurance adjuster is not your friend and when the time comes to offer you a settlement, don’t be surprised if the amount is lower than you expected.

    There are many reasons why you should consider talking with a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney.  First, an experienced lawyer will be able to give you an idea as to how much your case is worth.  He or she will also be able to advise you on your options and ensure that your best interests are being protected.  Plus, studies have shown that people who are represented by lawyers tend to obtain larger settlements than those who are not.

    At Steinberg Injury Lawyers, we offer a free consultation and will meet with you at a convenient location.  Since the consultation is free, you have nothing to lose by simply talking with a knowledgeable attorney from our office.

  • What is the number one cause of death in motorcycle accidents?

    Brain injury is the leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents.  Motorcyclists lack the same protection that motorists have in a crash.  A passenger vehicle, such as a sedan or minivan, acts as “armor” in a collision.  For motorcyclists, the main type of protection comes in the form of a helmet, which is believed to be the single most important factor in surviving a motorcycle crash.

    According to a report published by the Brain Injury Association of America, a motorcyclist not wearing a helmet is 40 percent more likely to sustain a fatal brain injury. Helmets are believed to be 37 percent effective in preventing death and it is estimated that these simple safety devices save about 1,500 lives every year.

    If you have been hurt in a motorcycle crash in Southern California, contact an experienced Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney at our office at (800) 989-6385 for a free case evaluation.

  • My husband was killed in a motorcycle crash in Los Angeles. He was riding his Harley when he was hit head-on by a semi truck. It appears as though the trucker caused the accident. Can I pursue compensation? If so, who would be liable, the trucker or the trucking company?

    We are so sorry to hear about your loss.  What a devastating time you are going through.

    Depending on the cause of the accident, you may be able to file a California wrongful death lawsuit to recover damages.  The trucker or trucking company could be liable, but we would need to review the details of your case to determine the cause of the collision.

    A successful wrongful death claim could entitle you to compensation for future financial support, funeral and burial expenses, reasonable value of household services, loss of the victim’s love, loss of the enjoyment of sexual relations and loss of gifts or benefits.

    For more information, contact an experienced Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer at our office at (800) 989-6385.

  • My wife was hurt in a bicycle accident in Irvine. The driver is trying to blame her, saying that she didnt signal that she was turning right in time. Who is at fault?

    There are definitely more details that would need to be reviewed before determining who was to blame, but it sounds like the driver could have been at fault.  When an accident, such as the one you described, is the result of the other person’s negligence, you can pursue compensation.

    Have your wife write down everything she can remember about the bicycle accident.  It would be wise to contact a bicycle accident lawyer who can help you investigate your case.  An attorney will be able to review witness testimony, the police report and other information pertaining to the collision to determine if you have a claim against the driver.

    An experienced Orange County bicycle accident attorney from our office will be more than happy to talk to you about your case.  We represent cases throughout California, including Irvine.

  • I was injured in a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles. The other driver and the insurance adjuster keeps calling. Should I talk to them?

    There is often a lot of confusion and uncertainty following a motorcycle crash, which is why you should limit whom you speak with.  You could end up saying something that will be used against you.

    Don’t be surprised if the insurance adjuster tries to pressure you into giving a recorded statement.  Adjusters are very skilled and they know the law and what questions to ask.  They also know techniques to lower your settlement.  Your recorded statement could hurt your motorcycle collision case.??

    When you are seriously injured in an accident, it is a good idea to seek legal help.  For more information, contact a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney at our office at (800) 989-6385.

  • Can I sue if I was injured in a Santa Monica pedestrian accident?

    In some cases, you can file an injury claim against the person who caused your injuries.  For example, if your accident involved a careless driver, you can sue that person in the state of California.  A successful case could entitle you to monetary damages that include lost income, medical expenses, property damage and more.

    Keep in mind, that you can be partially accountable, as a pedestrian, if you are found to have contributed to the accident.  Liability varies on a case-by-case basis, so it is important to contact an experienced Santa Monica accident lawyer for legal advice.

    Contact us today at (800) 989-6385 for a free legal consultation.

  • What are the proper ways to make a left turn on a bicycle?

    There are two methods for making left turns while on a bicycle.  You can use a traffic lane or crosswalk.

    When using a traffic lane, be observant for any possible dangers.  Make sure to clearly signal your intentions to turn and move to the left side of the lane or into the left or center turn lane.  You should place yourself in a position where other vehicles cannot pass you on the left.  If you are on a multiple lane road, you will need to signal every time you change lanes.  It is advised to avoid making a left turn from the right side of the lane, even if you are traveling in a bicycle lane.

    If you are going to use a crosswalk, you must stop and enter the crosswalk as a pedestrian or complete a 90-degree left turn and continue as if you were coming from the right.  You will need to yield to pedestrians.

    If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego or other area in California, contact Steinberg Injury Lawyers at 800-989-6385 for legal advice.

  • Could I be considered at fault for my bicycle accident?

    A bicyclist has some responsibilities under California law, which means you could be liable in an accident if you violated the vehicle code.  For example, if you were cycling under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you could be fined and may face other consequences.  Just because you were the one on the bicycle at the time of the accident, does not mean you are free from fault. 

    Contact our office at (800) 989-6385 for more information.  A Los Angeles bicycle accident lawyer from our law firm will review your case to determine what caused your bicycle collision. If it is determined that the other driver was to blame, you could be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

  • Am I entitled to compensation if I was injured in a bicycle accident?

    If a motorist caused your bicycle accident, then yes, you may be able to obtain compensation for your injuries.  When you are injured because of a driver’s negligent actions, you can pursue a legal action against that person.  If you are successful with your bicycle accident lawsuit, you could recover compensation, such as medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, mental anguish and other damages associated with your injuries.

    You can also seek compensation if your bicycle accident was the result of a defective bike or if there was an unsafe road condition that led to your accident.  You should talk with an experienced Los Angeles bicycle accident attorney from Steinberg Injury Lawyers for more information on your rights.  Contact us today at 800-350-8888.
     

  • What type of evidence and documentation is needed to support my motorcycle accident claim?

    When you file a motorcycle accident claim to obtain compensation for your injuries, you will need to be able to provide supporting information that shows the extent of your damages.  You can back up your version of the motorcycle collision by collecting documentation and evidence associated with the incident.

    The information you gather will help support your claim and improve your chances of recovering damages, for lost income, medical expenses, pain and suffering and other costs you have incurred.  The following is a list of some of the items you will need:

    • Police report
    • Witness statements
    • Medical bills
    • Medical records
    • Employer’s records showing your wage loss
    • Written description of your symptoms and difficulties
    This documentation is not only helpful when working with an insurance negotiator, but is also useful when contacting a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney to help you with your claim.

    For more information on what you need to do following a serious motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Riverside, Ventura or San Bernardino, contact Steinberg Injury Lawyers at 800-350-8888.