Motorcycle accidents are sadly not uncommon, and they can result in very serious injuries for everyone involved. If you are involved in a motorcycle crash, you could require surgery or hospitalization to repair your injuries, and you may need long-term follow-up care. These accidents can also be deeply upsetting events, resulting in severe emotional distress or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

If another person was responsible for your motorcycle collision, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your losses. This could include coverage for medical bills, rehabilitation, physical therapy, lost income, and other costs that you incur due to your injuries. A Monterey motorcycle accident lawyer will have the experience to help you file a claim and fight for the compensation you deserve. Reach out to a personal injury attorney at Dunnion Law today.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Many different factors can contribute to a motorcycle collision. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:

  • Drug and alcohol use
  • Speeding
  • Reckless driving
  • Distracted driving
  • Mechanical failure
  • Weather conditions

Regardless of the cause, motorcycle accidents can be some of the most devastating types of accidents on the road, resulting in severe injuries and perhaps even death. If you suffer injuries in a crash, you could be dealing with the physical and emotional consequences for the rest of your life and need the assistance of a motorcycle crash attorney in Monterey to seek compensation.

How Long Do I Have To File a Claim?

How long you have to file a claim is largely dependent on the laws in your state. This is known as the statute of limitations, and it varies based on the type of claim and the state laws. According to California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim.

This may seem daunting, especially if you are also dealing with the physical injuries and emotional distress from the accident. Fortunately, you do not have to navigate the process alone. Our Monterey attorneys are familiar with the statute of limitations and can help ensure you have everything you need to file a motorcycle wreck claim in time.

What if I Am Also at Fault?

As with many motor vehicle accidents, motorcycle collisions are not always clear in terms of responsibility. In some cases, both drivers are partially responsible for the collision, making it difficult to determine liability and assess compensation. In some states, if a plaintiff is even one percent responsible for the accident, the law may bar them from seeking compensation.

Fortunately, California follows a “pure comparative negligence” law. This means that even if a plaintiff is partially responsible for the accident, they are still able to seek compensation, although courts will reduce the dollar amount according to the plaintiff’s percentage of fault. For instance, if a plaintiff was 99 percent at fault for the accident, they can still recover 1 percent of the damages awarded against the defendant.

If you are involved in a motorcycle collision, our Monterey lawyers can help you seek compensation even if you are also at fault.

Contact a Monterey Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

Motorcycle accidents can be some of the most dangerous and scariest collisions on the road, for both the motorcyclist and the others involved. They can result in serious injuries that require extensive, costly medical care. Additionally, the trauma of these accidents can lead to long-term mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

If someone was responsible (even partially) for the accident, you may be able to seek financial compensation to cover your financial and emotional losses. Even if you are somewhat at fault in the accident, you may still be able to get compensation. A Monterey motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process and work to protect your right to compensation. At Dunnion Law, we have been representing injured clients since 1975, bringing decades of experience to motorcycle accident cases. Contact our firm today to discuss your situation and learn how we can help.