Los Angeles Motorcycle Accidents Injuries Attorney
Although motorcycle riding is quite popular in California, it can also be dangerous. Because motorcycles provide little protection, bikers and their passengers can be seriously injured in motorcycle accidents. In order to protect themselves from cars and trucks around them, motorcyclists must constantly be aware of their surroundings and drive defensively. Riders should also observe safety rules and always wear protective gear — a helmet, eye protection, gloves and footwear. Despite these measures, motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, J&Y Law can help. We have extensive experience handling motorcycle accident claims. We know that being injured in a motorcycle accident is an overwhelming experience. Many personal injury victims need extensive medical care and are often unable to return to riding. Our attorneys aggressively fight to help our clients obtain the maximum compensation so that they can focus on recovering.
Common Motorcycle Accidents Injuries
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 80 percent of motorcycle accidents result in injuries or fatalities. Some common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Head Injuries — Motorcycle accidents often lead to head injuries and traumatic brain injuries. It is worth noting that the California Vehicle Code requires riders and their passengers to wear helmets that meet certain specifications. Helmets can reduce the number of motorcycle accident fatalities and the degree of head and brain injuries. However, a high impact collision with another vehicle or a fixed object such as light pole can still lead to a severe head injury. In motorcycle accidents at moderate speeds, wearing a helmet can mean the difference between life and death.
- Bone Fractures — In most motorcycle accidents, the bike will tip over. These accidents often happen so quickly that the rider’s leg is still underneath the motorcycle, resulting in a broken leg. In fact, broken legs are the most common injury for hospitalization of motorcycle accident victims. In addition, wrist and arm fractures are common in motorcycle accidents as riders instinctively react by putting a hand out to to break their fall. Finally, motorcycle accidents frequently lead to fractures of the shoulder and pelvis.
- Leg Injuries — In addition to fractured or broken legs, motorcycle accidents can also cause other injuries to the lower extremities, such as fractured or shattered knees and feet. Riders and their passengers should wear protective leather clothing, motorcycle boots and knee pads to reduce the risk of such leg injuries. Even with these precautions, legs injuries are common in motorcycle accidents.
- Road Rash — Because motorcycles are not equipped with a cage like other motor vehicles, riders of motorcycles typically make contact with the road surface in a motorcycle accident. Without protective clothing such as a leather jacket and gloves, bikers are vulnerable to skin injuries referred to as road rash –a skin abrasion that can range from mild to severe. When the surface of the skin appears red, the injury is classified as first degree road rash. Second degree road rash, on the other hand, occurs when the skin’s surface is broken, but the inner layers remain intact. The most serious skin injury is third degree road rash, which involves the skin being completely removed, exposing underlying layers of tissue and fat.
- Muscle Damage — Motorcycle accidents can also lead to muscle damage. In addition to wearing protective clothing, riders can reduce the risk of muscle damage by driving defensively. Nonetheless, a motorcycle accident can cause permanent muscle damage and even paralysis. It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately after a motorcycle accident to prevent any muscle damage from becoming worse.
- Biker’s Arm –This condition occurs when a biker lands on an arm during a motorcycle accident. Motorcyclists at risk of being thrown off the bike instinctively try to protect themselves by extending their arms to lessen the impact. This can lead to permanent nerve damage referred to as biker’s arm, as well as damage to the upper body. Wearing a leather jacket and elbow pads can reduce the risk of severe nerve damage.
How J&Y Law Firm Helps Victims of Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
Being injured in a motorcycle accident can have long-lasting consequences. Many victims frequently require ongoing medical treatment and are unable to return to work for extended periods of times. Our legal team works tirelessly to help our clients obtain the compensation they deserve.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be able to recover damages for lost wages, medical expenses, property damage and other losses. We will work to make sure that an award considers any future medical and financial needs.
At the J&Y Law Firm, we know that motorcycle accident injuries can be an emotional and financial burden not only for the victims but their loved ones as well. By offering you compassion, knowledge and a superior level of personal service, we can help to lift that burden. Call our office today or complete the contact form on our website to set up a free consultation.
The J&Y Law Firm Represents Motorcycle Accident Victims In Los Angeles, San Diego, Orange County, San Bernardino County, San Francisco County, Sacramento County And All Of Northern And Southern California.