According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle accidents account for thirteen percent of all fatalities per year, although only three percent of the vehicles on the road are motorcycles. Motorcyclists are far more likely to be injured or killed in an accident than drivers or passengers in cars; in fact, the NHTSA estimates that the fatality rate for motorcyclists is 5.5 times that of victims of car accidents.

California Motorcycle Accidents

The bad news does not stop there. Most motorcycle accidents are not caused by a motorcyclist’s negligence; in fact, the majority of accidents with motorcycles, about 75 percent, involve collision with another vehicle. 78 percent of motorcyclists involved in accidents with cars were struck from the front, indicating that, in many cases, the driver of the car encroached on the motorcycle driver’s space. Helmets provide life-saving protecting in only 37 percent of motorcycle crashes.

These statistics are disturbing. What is even more troubling is the fact that, when a motorcyclist is injured or killed in a collision with a car, there is an unspoken assumption in many cases that the motorcyclist must have been driving dangerously. Many people have an inherent distrust of motorcycles, when in fact the statistics show that car drivers simply do not take the same care to avoid accidents with motorcycles that they do with other cars. Because of this unfair and untrue assumption, many injured motorcyclists receive little sympathy for their plight.

By turning to a Costa Mesa motorcycle accident lawyers, you are taking a step in the right direction to remedy this unfair situation. If you have been the victim of a motorcycle accident, through no fault of your own, you deserve a team of respected and professional personal injury attorney who can work to get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries, pain, and suffering.

Costa Mesa motorcycle accident lawyers are experts in the field of motorcycle lawsuits. Great attorneys have the experience and knowledge to bring your case to a successful close quickly, and get you a fair settlement. Do not be fooled; insurance companies and at-fault drivers will not be anxious to pay you the money you deserve for your injuries. It is up to you to seek professional help to move your case forward and collect the damages to which you are entitled.

Motorcycle Attorneys in Costa Mesa

Depending upon the circumstances and extent of your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, repairs to or replacement of your motorcycle, lost time at work, rehabilitation expenses such as physical or occupational therapy, and pain and suffering. Do not sign any settlements with a defendant or an insurance company before talking to an experienced motorcycle attorney.

Talk to a Bisnar and Chase Costa Mesa motorcycle attorney immediately after a motorcycle accident. No matter what the circumstances, these attorneys will work with you to get you the best settlement possible. Do not delay; it is important to claim your damages as soon as possible to protect and preserve your right to collect compensation. With a Bisnar and Chase motorcycle accident lawyers, you will be in the best hands to gain the compensation you need for your accident.

Call 1 (866) 990-8787 to get FREE LEGAL ADVICE

Costa Mesa Motorcycle Accident Statistics is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News

January 11, 2012--San Bernardino, CA--A San Bernardino woman who sued the county for the poorly-maintained roads she alleged were responsible for her motorcycle accident has settled for $3 million.

Lisa Marie Hermann filed suit against that county after riding on a motorcycle which crashed on Kelso-Cima Road in the Mojave Desert.  The operator of the motorcycle, Vanjaymes Tonies, claimed that the crash occurred due to a deep collapse in one area of the road which was unmarked.

The victim suffered traumatic injuries to the head as a result of the motorcycle crash.  San Bernardino County agreed to pay Hermann $1.9 million, plus almost $79,000 in medical costs.  The balance of the settlement will be paid over 25 years.

While I congratulate Ms. Hermann on a successful termination to her lawsuit, I am sorry for the permanent and disabling injuries she faces as a result of this crash.

Accident Statistics

Motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to be involved in fatal accidents than drivers of cars.  Passengers of motorcycles may be even more vulnerable as they have no control over the operation of the motorcycle.

The California Highway Patrol has instituted a motorcycle safety campaign which, as of 2009, has helped over 675,000 riders to become safer motorcyclists.

What Caused This Accident

It is clear from the actions of San Bernardino County that they feared that a court would find the county liable for Ms. Hermann’s injuries.  Failure to maintain a safe roadway for both cars and motorcycles can lead to verdicts against governmental agencies, which usually end up costing the taxpayers in increased taxes as these entities struggle to pay for their negligence.

In this case, it appears that the failure to maintain the roadway led to an unfortunate San Bernardino car accident in which an innocent passenger was severely injured.

Liability Issues

Since this case did not proceed to trial, we can only speculate as to the true liability in this matter.  However, it is clear that the county government believed it was safest to settle the case rather than risk a much larger verdict.

By settling, the county can pay for the damages and avoid a bigger judgment, without necessarily "admitting" liability.  This is often the case when a governmental body or its insurer feels that there is a fairly good chance that the case would be decided in favor of the plaintiff if it were to proceed to trial.  By refusing to admit liability, but by avoiding a judgment with a settlement, the defendant is able to prevent, in some cases, further lawsuits from appearing.  On the other hand, settling with a plaintiff can be considered in some respects to indicate an acceptance of liability, which may in turn lead to further actions against the defendant.

In this case, San Bernardino County and its lawyers most likely felt that settling the case was the economically sound thing to do, as a judge or jury might well rule against them.  In this way, they can also agree to spread the payments out over a period of time, allowing the county to slowly collect the money to pay this judgment.

San Bernardino County Settles for $3 Million after Motorcycle Crash is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News

Anaheim, California is located in central Orange County. Best known for Disneyland and the Angels Stadium and being the most populated city in Orange County and the 10th most populated in the country has proven to be somewhat unsafe, since motorcycle accidents have increased in recent years. Contact an Anaheim motorcycle accident attorney today if you were involved in a motorcycle related accident and are seeking compensation and justice.

Anaheim's vehicle accident statistics are saddening. According to the 2009 California Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), 23 people died and 1,970 were injured as a result of Anaheim car accidents. Also, 3 people were killed and 105 were injured due to motorcycle accidents in Anaheim. Many of these accidents are caused by distracted driving and drunk driving and sadly, some of these victims' lives could have been saved if other drivers had practiced safe driving techniques. If you are a victim of a severe motorcycle accident injury, you owe it to yourself to at least contact an Anaheim motorcycle accident attorney today to find out if you have a case.

The most recent motorcycle incident in Anaheim occurred on August of 2011, when a motorcyclist in Anaheim was struck by a vehicle at the intersection of Brookhurst and Orangethorpe Avenue. The victim, riding a Suzuki, was rushed to the hospital after being hit by a Toyota Camry. He survived the injury.

In 2008 5,290 people died in motorcycle accidents across the country – the highest number ever recorded. As these numbers rise up, we must do our part to help prevent future accidents. Safe driving techniques help, but a fundamental improvement of safety laws can also do much good to this longstanding problem.

Call the Anaheim motorcycle accident attorneys today if you think you have a case and would like to receive compensation and help improve future motorcycle safety laws. Call now for a free consultation. We are here to help.

Anaheim Motorcycle Accidents on the Rise is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News

A car accident in Chula Vista resulted in injuries for a motorcycle officer the morning of December 21, 2011. The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that the injury collision happened when the officer was riding his motorcycle south on Fourth Avenue. He was struck by a driver who made a left turn in front of the officer's motorcycle. The driver was turning into a private driveway mid-block, officials say. The officer was thrown off his cycle and on to the pavement. He was taken to an area medical center with injuries, but is expected to survive. An investigation is ongoing.

My thoughts and prayers are with this injured officer. I pray that he recovers swiftly and fully from whatever injuries he has sustained.

Motorcycle Accidents

There were 39 deaths and 989 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in San Diego County, according to California Highway Patrol's 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In the city of Chula Vista, one person died and 38 were injured due to motorcycle accidents in 2009.

Laws and Liability Issues

It appears from this news report that the driver made an unsafe left turn in front of the officer's motorcycle. A number of motorcycle accidents occur when a driver is making a left turn. This is primarily because drivers consciously look out for larger vehicles such as cars or trucks, but often not for smaller vehicles such as motorcycles or bicycles. California Vehicle Code Section 21801 (a) requires drivers making left turns or U-turns to yield the right of way to oncoming vehicles and not turn until it is reasonably safe to do so.

In this particular case, if the driver is determined to have been at fault, then, he or she can be held liable for the injuries and damages caused. A knowledgeable San Diego personal injury lawyer will be able to better advise injured victims in such cases about their legal rights and options.

San Diego Motorcycle Accident Injures Police Officer is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News

A car accident in Orange County, which officials say was caused by a driver who made an unsafe lane change, resulted in injuries for a Long Beach police officer. The Orange County Register reports that the injury collision happened the morning of December 15, 2011 on the 91 Freeway near Magnolia Avenue in Buena Park. California Highway Patrol officials say the collision occurred when a Toyota Corolla that was in the carpool lane crossed over the double yellow lines and hit the motorcycle. The officer suffered injuries to his arm and was taken to an area medical center for treatment. It is not clear if the driver will be cited.

I sympathize with the police officer who was injured. I'm relieved to hear that he did not suffer life-threatening injuries. I pray for his swift and full recovery.

Motorcycle Accidents

There were 17 deaths and 735 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Orange County, according to California Highway Patrol’s 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In the city of Buena Park, there were no fatalities, but 20 injuries reported as a result of motorcycle accidents, during the same year.

Unsafe Lane Change

It appears from this news report that the driver of the Toyota Corolla may have made an unsafe lane change. Under California Vehicle Code Section 21658 (a), motorists should change lanes only when "such a movement can be made with reasonable safety." It is not clear what caused the driver of the Toyota Corolla to cross over double yellow lanes. Was the driver intoxicated, inattentive, distracted, or driving recklessly at the time?

If the driver of the Corolla is determined to have been at fault, he or she can be held liable for the officer's injuries and damages. It would be in the best interests of injured victims in such cases to contact a skilled Orange County personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all aspects of the incident and ensure that the negligent parties are held liable.

Buena Park Car Accident Injures Police Officer is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News

A car accident in Escondido resulted in critical injuries for a motorcyclist the morning of December 9, 2011. The North County Times reports that the motorcycle accident happened at the intersection of Lincoln Avenue and Ash Street. Officials say the motorcycle was westbound on Lincoln when a pickup truck that was turning left on Ash Street struck the cycle. The motorcyclist was severely injured and taken to an area medical center in critical condition. Officials are investigating the cause of this major injury collision.

My heart goes out to this severely injured motorcyclist and his family members for what they are going through at this time. I pray for this victim's quick and full recovery.

Motorcycle Accidents

There were 39 fatalities and 989 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in San Diego County, according to California Highway Patrol's 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In the city of Escondido, four people died and 30 were injured due to motorcycle accidents in 2009.

Laws and Liability Issues

California law requires that the driver of any vehicle making a left turn or U-turn must exercise due care and caution before doing so. Vehicles making left turns or U-turns must first yield the right of way to oncoming vehicles and only make the turn when it is reasonably safe to so do, under California Vehicle Code Section 21801 (a). In this particular case, I trust officials are looking into whether the driver of the pickup was intoxicated, distracted or otherwise negligent at the time of the collision.

If it is determined that the driver of the pickup truck caused the crash, then, he or she can be held liable for the victim's injuries and damages. It would be in the best interests of injured victims to contact a skilled San Diego personal injury lawyer, who will fight hard to protect their rights and hold the negligent parties accountable.

San Diego Car Accident Injures Motorcyclist is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News

A motorcyclist and his passenger who suffered major injuries in a San Diego car accident the evening of December 7, 2011 were identified as Stuart Lessig and his wife Elizabeth. The husband and wife, both 24, were traveling on South Mission Road in their 2010 Kawasaki motorcycle when they were struck by a Mazda pickup truck that turned left in front of the motorcycle at the intersection of Almond Street. The driver of the pickup, 57-year-old Randall Arnold, was arrested on suspicion of DUI in connection with this incident. Stuart and Elizabeth Lessig suffered serious injuries and were taken to a local hospital for treatment.

I sympathize with the victims of this motorcycle accident. I truly hope they did not suffer life-threatening injuries and pray for their swift and full recovery.

Drunk Driving Collisions

There were 98 fatalities and 948 injuries involving alcohol-related crashes in San Diego County, according to California Highway Patrol's 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In the unincorporated areas of San Diego County, 39 people died and 364 were injured due to DUI collisions in 2009.

Left Turn Law

California Vehicle Code Section 21801 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety." In this case, the driver of the pickup is also suspected of driving under the influence, which is illegal under California Vehicle Code 23152 (a).

Victims' Claim for Compensation

If Arnold is determined to have been at fault, he could be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages. It would be in the best interests of DUI victims to retain the services of a skilled San Diego personal injury lawyer, who has a successful track record of holding drunk drivers financially responsible for the injuries and damages they cause. For more information about the dangers of driving under the influence, please visit the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) web site at www.madd.org.

San Diego Motorcycle Accident Injures Two is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News

A hit-and-run accident in Riverside the morning of October 26, 2011 proved fatal for 43-year-old motorcyclist John Michael King. The Press Enterprise reports that the fatal motorcycle accident happened in Cathedral City on East Palm Canyon Drive when a large commercial truck made a U-turn in front of King's motorcycle. The big rig left the scene while King lay fatally injured on the roadway. Officials later arrested 49-year-old Arnold Mejangos Beltran of Baldwin Park in connection with this fatal crash and charged with vehicular manslaughter and felony hit-and-run.

My heartfelt sympathies go out to everyone who knew and loved John Michael King for their untimely and devastating loss. This grieving family will be in my prayers.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

There were 31 deaths and 500 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Riverside County, according to California Highway Patrol’s 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In Cathedral City, there were no fatalities, but two injuries reported as a result of motorcycle accidents, during the same year.

Laws and Liability Issues

If the details of this news report are accurate, it appears that the truck driver, Beltran, struck and fatally injured the motorcyclist and then left him on the roadway without care or medical attention. Under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a), motorists are required to stop immediately and remain at the scene of a crash until authorities arrive. Most importantly, they are required to obtain assistance for the injured victim. It may be something as simple as calling 911. In this case, the truck driver did none of the above and instead drove away. Appalling!

In addition, it appears that the driver of the big rig may have also made an illegal U-turn. California Vehicle Code Section 21801 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety."

In this particular case, King's family can claim compensation from the at-fault driver and his employer. In such cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased accident victims would be well advised to contact a skilled Riverside personal injury lawyer, who will help hold the at-fault parties accountable.

Hit-and-Run Collision in Riverside Proves Fatal is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News

A motorcycle accident in Los Angeles resulted in fatal injuries for two people identified as Romarino Zeri and Julie Anne Cameron. NBC News reports that the fatal crash between a motorcycle and a large truck happened the morning of October 23, 2011 on the Interstate 5 at Branford Street in Pacoima. The motorcycle was part of the annual charity called the "Love Ride." It was traveling between two traffic lanes when it was struck by a big rig. The driver, Zeri, and his passenger, Cameron, were both pronounced dead at the scene. Officials are investigating the cause of this tragic accident.

I offer my heartfelt sympathies to everyone who knew and loved Romarino Zeri and Julie Anne Cameron for their terrible loss. Please keep these families in your thoughts and prayers.

Motorcycle Accidents

There were 83 deaths and 2,719 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Los Angeles County in 2009, according to California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). During the same year, 35 people were killed and 1,248 people were injured in Los Angeles motorcycle accidents.

Possible Accident Causes

Based on this news report, it is not clear who was at fault for this tragic truck accident. It is unclear as to whether the truck driver made a sudden or unsafe lane change or if the motorcyclist was not paying attention to the big rig and where it was on the roadway. California Vehicle Code section 21658 (a) states that whenever a roadway has been divided into two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic in one direction the vehicle "shall be driven as nearly as practical entirely within a single lane and shall not be moved from the lane until such movement can be made with reasonable safety."

Victims' Claim for Compensation

If it is determined that the truck driver’s negligence resulted in the accident, the driver and his or her employer may be held liable. It would be in the best interests of victims' families to seek the counsel of a reputed Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all aspects of the incident and ensure that the negligent parties are held accountable. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.

Motorcycle Accident in Los Angeles Proves Fatal is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News

A car accident in Orange County resulted in major injuries for a motorcyclist the night of October 18, 2011. The Orange County Register reports that the injury collision occurred on the 55 Freeway at La Veta Avenue when a motorcyclist crashed into a disabled vehicle in the northbound lanes. The motorcyclist suffered severe injuries and was taken to a local trauma center for treatment. Officials are investigating the cause of this crash.

My heart goes out to the injured motorcyclist. I hope he recovers quickly and completely from whatever injuries he has sustained. Please keep this victim in your thoughts and prayers.

Motorcycle Accidents

There were 17 deaths and 735 injuries involving motorcycle accidents in Orange County, according to CHP's 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In the unincorporated areas of the county, two people were killed and 44 were injured due to motorcycle accidents during the same year.

Possible Accident Causes

It is unclear from this report as to what caused the motorcyclist to collide with the stalled vehicle. It is not known what caused the car to stall in the first place. Since this accident occurred at night, it is likely that the motorcyclist was not able to see the vehicle. It is also not known if the stalled vehicle had its lights on to warn other motorists. I trust officials are looking into these and other issues in order to determine what led to this major injury collision.

Fault and Liability

In such cases, it would be in the best interests of injured victims to seek the counsel of a skilled Orange County personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that the negligent parties are held liable. Injured victims can seek compensation from the at-fault motorist to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, hospitalization, surgery, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

Orange County Motorcycle Accident Causes Injuries is a post from: Personal Injury Lawyers News