Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Pleasanton, CA
Learn How Our Bay Area Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help
Riding motorcycles is one of California’s favorite pastimes. However, as most riders are aware, this favorite activity can also be a dangerous one. Given their small size and build, motorcycles pose unique risks to riders. Introducing a negligent driver into the mix can quickly turn deadly. Our Pleasanton motorcycle accident attorneys have helped many clients after a serious motorcycle crash.
We represent clients in Alameda County, Contra Costa County, San Francisco County, Santa Clara County, and San Joaquin County who are dealing with serious injuries following a motorcycle accident. If you or a loved one suffered a personal injury or wrongful death because of another person’s negligence, contact one of our personal injury law offices today. We may be able to help you secure the compensation you need to deal with the aftermath of a motorcycle crash.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in The Bay Area
Motorcycles are relatively small compared to other vehicles on the road. This makes motorcyclists difficult to see, especially if a driver is driving distracted or negligently. When another motorist fails to notice a motorcyclist on the road, the outcome can be serious or even deadly. Below, our motorcycle accident attorneys discuss common causes of motorcycle accidents.
Driver Negligence
General negligence is a common cause shared by many vehicle accidents. Examples of driver negligence may include:
- Distracted driving. Distracted driving can involve any behavior that takes your eyes or attention off the road. This can include, for example, texting, eating, talking to passengers, or fiddling with the radio.
- Running a stoplight or stop sign. Failing to obey traffic signals and signs is a common cause of many auto accidents. However, they can prove especially dangerous for motorcyclists.
- Failing to yield the right of way. Failing to yield the right of way when making a left turn is a common cause of motorcycle accidents. This is usually the result of failing to notice an oncoming motorcyclist.
- Lane splitting. Lane splitting is legal in California. This means motorists must share the lane with motorcyclists. Drivers who change lanes or turn without looking can cause serious harm to motorcyclists who may be sharing the lane.
- Speeding. Speeding significantly shortens a driver’s response time for making emergency stops. Additionally, greater speeds increase the force of impact in a collision.
- Driving under the influence. Any driver who operates a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol puts other people at risk. Impaired driving increases the chances of a serious accident.
Motorcyclists are not alone in dealing with these everyday occurrences. However, motorcyclists may face increased risks because of them.
Roadway Hazards
Potholes and roadway debris may be frustrating for other drivers, but they are serious dangers for motorcyclists. Road hazards can throw a motorcyclist from his or her bike. Making contact with the pavement can cause serious or even fatal injuries.
Depending on the situation, an individual, private company or government agency may have a duty to clear the road of these hazards. Failure to do so may make one of these parties liable for a resultant crash. Our Pleasanton motorcycle accident attorneys can help you determine whether one of these entities is responsible for your crash.
Common Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles provide no metal frame or cabin to protect their riders. When accidents occur, the only thing protecting a motorcyclist is his or her helmet and gear.
As you can imagine, motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries. Common types of motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Broken limbs, bones, and fractures
- Road rash and burns
- Internal bleeding
- Cuts and scrapes
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Pleasanton, Oakland, or Fremont, CA
Immediately following a motorcycle accident, assess yourself and others for injuries that may need immediate attention. Then, if you can, call the police.
The police will conduct a preliminary investigation, record statements, and document the scene of the crash. This information will be later compiled into an official report. You want to obtain this report.
After an accident, you should also take steps to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if you feel fine following a crash, some injuries take time to fully appear. Seeking medical attention early will help you avoid dormant injuries and will establish a clear link between your injuries and the accident.
You will also want to contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. Suffering an injury after a motorcycle crash will not only be physically demanding but financially demanding as well. Medical bills and lost wages can quickly add up. Our attorneys can help you secure the compensation you need to cope with these realities through the legal system.
Need a Pleasanton Motorcycle Accident Lawyer? Contact Our Office Today
The personal injury attorneys of Bonjour, Thorman, Burns & Dahm, PC represent clients throughout Alameda County, Contra Costa County, San Francisco County, Santa Clara County, and San Joaquin County. Our goal is to help real people with real problems by providing excellent legal services.
Learn more about how we may be able to help you after a motorcycle accident. Contact our offices in Pleasanton, Oakland, or Fremont today at (925) 460-8484 or fill out our online form and we will reach out to you. We can discuss your situation and concerns during a free initial consultation.