California Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Assist Injured Riders 

Respected Santa Barbara lawyers help motorcyclists navigate the claim filing process 

Motorcyclists have little to protect them in a crash, making them highly vulnerable to severe and sometimes catastrophic injuries. Recovering financial compensation can be difficult, since motorcycle riders are often seen as being at fault in accidents. The attorneys at Pulverman & Pulverman, LLP in Santa Barbara have over 40 years of experience holding other parties liable so that California motorcyclists can get the money damages they deserve. 

Motorcycle accidents in coastal California

The California Central Coast is renowned for its beautiful views, which makes Highway 1 and Highway 101 between Santa Barbara and Monterey among the most popular roads for motorcyclists. As these roads are also heavily traveled by cars and trucks, there is a greater likelihood of accidents, which can result in serious injuries and fatalities. Statistics from the California Office of Traffic Safety show that hundreds of motorcyclists are killed each year statewide and thousands more are injured. If you have been hurt or a family member has been killed in a motorcycle accident, an experienced personal injury lawyer from our law firm can determine if you have a claim for damages and if so can take the actions necessary to pursue it. 

Common causes of motorcycle accidents 

Motorcycle accidents occur for multiple reasons, include the following:

• Speeding —Excessive speed by motorcyclists or other vehicles is a leading cause of accidents. 
• Distracted driving —A vehicle driver who is texting or otherwise not paying attention to the road can easily fail to see a motorcycle ahead or to either side of them. 
• Lane changes —Drivers changing lanes often do not see motorcycles in their blind spots. 
• Left-turn and intersection crashes — It can be hard for drivers turning left to see motorcycles or to judge how quickly they are approaching. 
• Roadway debris —Hitting debris in the roadway can cause a motorcyclist to lose control or to be ejected from the bike. 
• Dooring —When a door of a parked car suddenly opens into a lane of traffic, a motorcyclist can crash into it. 
• Icy or slick roadways — Loss of traction can cause a motorcycle to skid into other vehicles or to fall over.

We thoroughly investigate each accident to determine the causes and the parties responsible. 

Lane splitting in California

Lane splitting occurs when a motorcycle travels between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic to bypass congestion. Although this practice is legal in California, the California Highway Patrol has issued guidelines for motorcyclists to help ensure safety. They include the following:

• Lane split only at slow speeds.
• Avoid lane splitting next to large vehicles.
• Be visible and keep out of the blind spots of other vehicles. 
• Wear bright clothing and reflective gear to help drivers see you. 
• Consider the total environment when lane splitting, such as the land width and roadway, lighting and weather conditions. 

Accidents can occur when other drivers do not check their mirrors, are distracted or are otherwise careless. If you were hit while lane splitting, you may be able to hold another driver accountable for your injuries, even if you were partially at fault. 

Types of injuries in motorcycle accidents

When motorcycle riders hit the ground or are hit by other vehicles, terrible injuries can result, including the following:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Head and neck injuries
• Whiplash
• Concussion
• Spinal cord damage
• Compound bone fractures
• Internal injuries
• Organ damage
• Road rash
• Bruising and lacerations

Some of these injuries are treatable but others require long-term rehabilitation. Even with good medical insurance, you will likely have large out-of-pocket costs. We know how to obtain the medical testimony and evidence needed to fully support the extent of treatment, rehabilitation and other care and accommodation necessary. 

Compensation for damages in motorcycle accident cases

Damages for injuries in motorcycle crashes can include: 

• Current and future medical bills related to your accident
• Lost wages and future lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Property damage
• Punitive damages for another driver’s gross negligence

Our motorcycle accident attorneys will assess your injuries and all relevant factors to make demands for damages appropriate in your case. 

Contact a Santa Barbara motorcycle accident lawyer for help with your claim

At Pulverman & Pulverman, LLP in Santa Barbara, we represent motorcyclists throughout the Central Coast of California who have been injured in accidents caused by negligent drivers. Call 805-962-0397 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.