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Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Newport Beach
Know Your Legal Rights When You Have Been Injured in a Newport Beach Motorcycle Accident
The feeling of being on two wheels on the open road is unlike any other mode of transportation and the only way to travel for motorcycle enthusiasts.
However, the openness of motorcycles leaves their riders at risk of serious and catastrophic injury in an accident. The Newport Beach motorcycle accident lawyers at Manning Law, APC help people injured in accidents caused by another person's negligence or inattentiveness.
If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident in California, contact our firm online or by phone at (800) 783-5006 to learn about your legal rights. Consultations are free.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Newport Beach
Even the safest and most experienced riders are still at risk in an accident. Motorcycle accidents are often caused by inattentive drivers, who aren’t paying attention to their surroundings and don’t see the motorcycle.
Accidents may also be caused by road hazards, such as loose gravel and potholes, which result from the failure of state and local agencies to maintain safe road conditions.
Some of the many causes of motorcycle accidents in Newport Beach include:
- Driver intoxication
- Speeding
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failing to yield
- Distracted driving
In addition, drivers who engage in aggressive or reckless driving behaviors significantly increase the risk for motorcyclists. Tailgating, swerving, and weaving in and out of traffic are perilous actions that can easily result in collisions with motorcycles.
Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries
California’s universal helmet law requires riders to wear helmets to reduce the risk of serious head injury or death. However, motorcycles do not offer the protection of the frame of a car, seatbelts, or airbags.
This lack of protection is the main reason riders are at higher risk of serious injury in an accident, compared with drivers and passengers in cars. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycle riders are six times more likely to be injured in an accident.
Injured motorcyclists in Newport Beach often suffer:
- Road rash, cuts and scrapes
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Amputation
- Permanent disfigurement
In addition to the listed injuries, motorcyclists may also suffer from psychological trauma following an accident. This can include conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Emotional and psychological health is as critical as physical recovery, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support and resources for both physical and mental healing.
Motorcycle Accident Compensation in Newport Beach
Your compensation amount can vary significantly based on the specifics of your incident, such as the severity of injuries and the impact on your quality of life. Seeking thorough legal counsel helps navigate these complexities.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Physical and rehabilitative therapy
- Future medical care and ongoing costs
- Lost wages
- Future lost wages due to decreased earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death (if a loved one was killed)
Establishing fault is essential to prevailing in your claim. Our Newport Beach motorcycle accident attorneys gather evidence to show that the accident was the fault of the other driver or another entity that failed to maintain roads or correct defective equipment. We investigate your accident thoroughly, preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and obtain all records and police reports to establish fault and maximize your damages.
Understanding Local Motorcycle Laws in Newport Beach
Newport Beach, as part of California, adheres to specific state motorcycle laws designed to protect both riders and other motorists. California's strict helmet law demands that all riders, regardless of age, wear a DOT-compliant helmet while on their bikes. This regulation is vital as it significantly reduces the risks of head injuries in the event of accidents. Familiarity with the local and state traffic laws, such as lane splitting, which is legal in California, can also affect the outcome of a legal process following an accident.
Additionally, motorcyclists must ensure their bikes meet the necessary equipment standards, such as adequate lighting, mirrors, and other safety gear. Being informed of these requirements not only keeps riders safe but also ensures compliance with legal obligations that can impact insurance claims and legal proceedings. It's crucial for riders to stay updated on any changes in motorcycling laws, which can impact their safety and legal standing if an accident occurs.
The Importance of Local Knowledge & Representation
Being familiar with Newport Beach's specific road conditions, traffic patterns, and common accident hotspots can significantly affect the outcome of a motorcycle accident case. Our local motorcycle accident lawyers in Newport Beach bring invaluable insights into how these factors play a role in accident cases. Our understanding of Newport Beach’s legal environment allows us to provide comprehensive representation based on local experiences and challenges faced by riders.
Our approach considers local traffic laws and cultural attitudes towards motorcyclists, which can influence jury perceptions and settlement opportunities. Additionally, our relationship with local law enforcement and medical professionals means we can efficiently collect and evaluate evidence, ensuring all nuances of a case are understood. This thorough local knowledge is critical in crafting effective legal strategies aimed at achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Call Manning Law, APC today at (800) 783-5006 to discuss your case online with our skilled Newport Beach, CA, motorcycle accident attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Newport Beach
What Should I Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident?
After a motorcycle accident, prioritize your safety and get medical help right away, even if injuries seem minor. Move out of traffic if possible, call the police, and obtain an official accident report. Document the scene by taking photos and collecting witness information, but avoid discussing fault with anyone at the scene. Once your immediate medical needs are addressed, contact a Newport Beach motorcycle accident attorney at Manning Law, APC to understand your rights and get help dealing with insurance companies and potential claims.
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in California?
In California, you generally have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. Cases involving government entities may have shorter deadlines, making it important to act quickly. Speaking with a Newport Beach motorcycle accident attorney at Manning Law, APC ensures you understand the correct timeline and take action before your right to compensation expires.
How Is Compensation Determined in Motorcycle Accident Claims?
Compensation depends on the severity of your injuries, the impact on your daily life, and financial losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages like pain and suffering may also apply. Insurance companies often push for quick, low settlements, so having experienced representation matters. At Manning Law, APC, we investigate thoroughly, build strong evidence, and fight for full and fair compensation.
Can I Still File a Claim If I Was Partially at Fault?
Yes. Under California’s comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages even if you share some responsibility. Your compensation is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. Our motorcycle accident attorney in Newport Beach can help challenge unfair fault assessments and ensure you aren’t blamed more than necessary.
What Makes Newport Beach a Common Site for Motorcycle Accidents?
Newport Beach’s scenic routes, heavy traffic, and seasonal tourism make motorcycle accidents more likely. Congested roads, complex intersections, and distracted drivers all increase risks. Manning Law, APC understands these local factors and uses that knowledge to build stronger cases for injured riders.
Manning Law FAQ
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What Damages Can I Receive Compensation For?When your injury is caused by the actions or negligence of another person, you can take legal action to recover costs resulting from your injury. We represent clients seeking damages for the following:
Past and future medical bills:
Oftentimes medical bills can extend far beyond the individual's initial accident. The victim may require extended hospital stays, operations, and even regular checkups during their recovery process. If you were injured due to someone else's negligence, we will fight to ensure that you receive compensation for these expenses.Rehabilitation:
For injuries resulting in long-term side effects, it is important for the victim to be able to focus on their recovery and rehabilitation, rather than worrying about how they will pay for their recovery process.Lost income:
Most serious accidents will be accompanied by significant amount of time off of work. If someone else's negligence has rendered you unable to work, they should be held responsible for your loss of income during that time.Mental anguish:
Mental anguish can include various forms of depression and anxiety that someone may experience as a result of their accident, or even the loss of someone close to them.Physical pain and suffering:
This type of compensation can be pursued in regards to the physical injuries a victim has experienced and the pain and suffering that those injuries have caused them.General inconvenience
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How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Claim?Under California’s personal injury statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a civil lawsuit in court against the responsible party. If the at-fault party is a government agency, you have an even tighter deadline of six months. If you do not seek legal action within this timeframe, the court will likely refuse to hear your case at any time to the future and you will lose your right to seek compensation. These deadlines can sometimes be extended under specific circumstances, such as if the injured party is a minor, the injury or the cause of the injury was not immediately apparent, or the injured individual suffers mental or physical incapacitation due to the injury. Regardless, if you are unsure how the statute of limitations applies to your case, it is important that you get an attorney involved promptly to guard your legal rights.
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If I Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer, Will I Have to Go to Court?While going to court is certainly a possibility, many personal injury claims are settled out of court through negotiations between your attorney and the responsible party’s insurance company. A trial may only be necessary if these negotiations should fail, such as in circumstances where fault is disputed or if there is a disagreement over the value of your claim. Our attorneys prepare each case as if it were going to trial to give us the best positioning possible during settlement negotiations.
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How Long Will My Personal Injury Case Take?Your case could take several months or even years to settle depending on the situation. The timeline of your case will vary depending on factors such as the severity of your injuries, the amount of medical treatment you need, complications of liability, and the level of cooperation of the responsible party’s insurance company.
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How Much Is My Personal Injury Case Worth?Your case’s value will be based on factors such as the severity and long-term impact of your injuries, the amount of medical treatment you need, the strength of evidence proving the other party’s liability, and the amount of insurance coverage available in your case. It is best to discuss your case with a skilled attorney to get a more accurate picture of your case’s potential value.
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How Much Does It Cost to Hire Manning Law, APC?Manning Law, APC accepts all personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no up-front costs for you. We only get paid if we are successful in your case.
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How Do I Know Manning Law, Apc Is Right for My Case?Manning Law, APC offers free consultations, works on contingency, and has recovered millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements on behalf of past clients. With more than 100 years of combined legal experience, we have what it takes to maximize your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
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Incredible individuals who are approachable, excellent communicators, empathetic to my situation, and accessible when required. Bobby and Joanna have been exceptional, easing the stress and fear from this experience. I am deeply grateful for all your assistance. A heartfelt thank you for all your assistance.- Stephanie L. -
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