Being in a motorcycle accident can shake you to your core, turning your world upside down in an instant. The moments following a crash are critical not just for your well-being, but also for protecting your legal rights.
This blog is your go-to resource, offering a step-by-step walkthrough for what to do after a Torrance motorcycle crash. We’ll cover everything from checking for injuries and getting medical help, to capturing the accident scene and grasping the legal implications.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a veteran on two wheels or just starting out; this guide is here to arm you with insights on filing a motorcycle accident claim in Torrance and the support you need to weather the storm post-accident.
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Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be severe or even life-threatening due to the exposed and vulnerable position of the rider. Here is a list of common motorcycle crash injuries:
Head Injuries
These can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Despite the protection offered by helmets, head injuries are common and can be serious.
Road Rash
When a rider is thrown from the motorcycle and slides across the pavement, it can cause abrasions or road rash. This can vary from minor scrapes to severe skin peeling that might require skin grafting.
Fractures and Broken Bones
The impact of a motorcycle crash can easily break bones. Common fractures include those to the legs, arms, collarbone, and ribs.
Spinal Cord Injuries
These injuries can result from the impact of a crash and may lead to paralysis (either partial or complete) or other long-term disabilities.
Lower Extremity Injuries
Injuries to the legs, knees, and feet are common because these parts of the body are more exposed. Such injuries can range from fractures, dislocations, to soft tissue damage.
Internal Injuries
The force of a motorcycle crash can cause internal bleeding and damage to internal organs, which might not be immediately apparent after the accident.
Neck Injuries
These can range from minor whiplash to more serious cervical spine injuries.
Soft Tissue Injuries
These are injuries to the muscles, ligaments, and tendons and can occur anywhere on the body as a result of the crash impact.
Facial Injuries
Riders who don’t wear full-face helmets are particularly at risk for facial injuries, which can include fractures, lacerations, and dental injuries.
Psychological Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can also lead to psychological issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety.
It’s important for riders to wear appropriate safety gear, including helmets, to mitigate the severity of injuries in case of a motorcycle collision. Helmets are especially crucial as they are highly effective in reducing the risk of head injuries, which are among the most serious consequences of crashes.
Suffered Motorcycle Crash Injuries Due to Someone’s Negligence? What To Do After a Motorcycle Wreck
Those who have been hurt by negligent drivers or motorcyclists have the right to seek compensation for their damages. If you have been injured in a motorcycle wreck, here are the steps you should take:
- Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries. Avoid moving if severely injured.
- Call 911: Report the accident to ensure it’s officially documented and request medical assistance if there are injuries.
- Exchange Information: Swap contact and insurance details with the other involved parties without discussing the accident details or admitting fault.
- Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your motorcycle, other vehicles, any visible injuries, and relevant road conditions.
- Seek Medical Attention: Get a medical evaluation to document any injuries, which is crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
- Consult a Torrance Motorcycle Accident Attorney: Before contacting your insurance or making any statements, consult with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in Torrance motorcycle crash cases to ensure your rights are protected.
- Communicate Through Your Lawyer: Have your attorney handle all communications with the insurance companies to avoid any statements that could be used against you. By prioritizing legal consultation, you ensure that your rights and interests are preserved from the outset, especially in communications that could impact your claim.
Insurance providers might not always have your best interests in mind and will try to downplay the impact of your pain and damages. Your motorcycle accident lawyer will make sure that all minor and serious injuries are noted and documented so you can file a personal injury claim that gets you the compensation you deserve.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim: Recoverable Damages from a Torrance Motorcycle Crash
In an accident claim, recoverable damages for motorcycle crash injuries typically include:
Economic Damages
- Medical Bills: Costs for past, current, and future medical care.
- Lost Wages: Income lost due to the inability to work, including future earning capacity.
- Property Damage: Costs to repair or replace your motorcycle and other damaged belongings.
- Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Costs incurred directly from the accident, like travel to medical appointments.
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical and emotional distress.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for the inability to engage in hobbies and activities.
- Emotional Distress: Compensation for psychological impacts like anxiety or depression.
- Loss of Consortium: Impact on the relationship with your spouse or partner.
Punitive Damages
- Awarded in cases of egregious conduct to punish the defendant and deter similar actions.
The exact damages depend on what caused the accident, who was at fault, the severity of your motorcycle crash injuries, and California laws. Witness statements, footage, photos, and accident reports will be critical in this case. Consulting with an experienced Torrance motorcycle accident attorney will help determine your eligible compensation.
Work With a Trusted Motorcycle Accident Lawyer After an Accident. Call RTM Law Firm for a Free Consultation on Your Legal Options.
Why should a motorcycle rider have a Torrance motorcycle accident lawyer on speed dial? The risks of getting into a crash while riding is high, and the consequences can be even more devastating if the collision was due to someone else’s negligence.
The Torrance motorcycle crash attorneys at RTM Law Firm know the local laws inside out and have extensive experience in negotiating with insurance companies. Whether it’s for out of court settlements or filing a lawsuit for damages, count on our legal team to have your back and fight for motorcycle accident victims.
Our Torrance personal injury attorneys and case specialists are ready to help 24/7.
Contact us through this form to schedule a free consultation, or call us at (424) 999-7553.
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