Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Determining fault in these accidents is crucial for securing compensation, but liability isn’t always clear-cut. Many factors contribute to crashes, including road hazards, negligent drivers, and poor infrastructure. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, consulting our Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand your legal rights.
Road Hazards That Put Motorcyclists at Risk
Due to their smaller size and two-wheel structure, motorcycles are more vulnerable to road hazards than cars. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 30% of motorcycle crashes are linked to hazardous road conditions. Common dangers include potholes, debris, and slippery surfaces, which can cause riders to lose control.
Motorcyclists injured due to these hazards may be able to hold the government or property owners accountable for failing to maintain safe road conditions. Our best Los Angeles personal injury attorney can assess the circumstances and determine whether negligence played a role.
How Driver Negligence Leads to Motorcycle Crashes
Many motorcycle accidents occur because of careless or reckless drivers. Some of the most common forms of driver negligence include failure to yield, distracted driving, speeding, impaired driving, and sudden lane changes.
- Speeding and reckless driving: Studies show that over 40% of fatal motorcycle crashes involve speeding by either the rider or another driver.
- Distracted driving: The rise of smartphone use has significantly contributed to accidents, with thousands of motorcycle-related crashes linked to driver inattention each year.
When a driver’s negligence causes a motorcycle crash, they can be held liable for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A skilled Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney can help victims pursue compensation.
Unseen Dangers: Poor Road Design & Maintenance
Sometimes, the government or municipal agencies may be responsible for accidents due to unsafe road conditions. Poorly designed or maintained roads contribute to crashes through lack of proper lighting, defective traffic signals, dangerous road curves, and improper drainage.
Victims injured by defective road designs or lack of maintenance may have grounds for a claim against the responsible entity. Consulting a Los Angeles personal injury attorney can help determine whether a government agency or contractor can be held accountable.
Proving Fault in a Motorcycle Accident Claim
To recover compensation after a motorcycle accident, it is essential to establish liability. This process often requires strong evidence, including:
- Police reports and eyewitness statements – can provide key details about faults and contributing factors.
- Surveillance or dashcam footage – Video evidence can clearly show what led to the crash.
An experienced Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney can gather and present this evidence effectively, ensuring victims receive the compensation they deserve.
Conclusion: Seek Legal Help Today
Motorcycle accidents often involve multiple factors, from negligent drivers to unsafe road conditions. Identifying the responsible party is key to securing fair compensation. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, contact the Law Offices of Howard Kornberg at 310-997-0904 for a free initial consultation. An experienced Los Angeles personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and fight for the justice you deserve.
