San Diego Motorcycle Accident Attorney

   Motorcyclists face precarious situations on the roadway. Confronting daily hazards which seem trivial to motorists, motorcyclists are much more vulnerable to serious injury on the roads. Other than the minimal protection of clothing and riding gear, the hard slap of pavement to their delicate bodies is enough to cause serious injury, permanent disability, and even death.

   Motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to die in a crash than automobile drivers. Motorcyclists are also 5 times more likely to be come injured in an accident. Nearly 3,000 motorcyclists died in highway crashes in the past year alone.

   Motorcyclists face many challenges on the open road:

• Unaware of the laws governing “right of way,” motorists violate a motorcyclist’s right, causing an accident.
• Smaller in size, motorcycles are harder to see on the road and are easily obscured by cars.
• Over 70 percent of motorcycle accidents occur at intersections.
• Road hazards like potholes, ruts, oil slicks, puddles, and debris can cause greater harm to motorcyclists.
• Motorcycles are known to “wobble” at high speeds, making them unstable. This is caused by a misalignment of rear and front tires—usually a manufacturer’s defect. They can be held liable for any accidents that occur due to this defect.
• Motorcycles require a great deal more skill than automobiles—lack of this training and experience could mean a serious accident.

   What to do if involved in a serious motorcycle accident:

• If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, remain at the scene until the police and paramedics arrive. Unless incapacitated, you must give a statement to the police officer. Fleeing the scene could result in criminal penalties.
• Talk to the police. Relate as much information about the accident as possible. Refrain from pointing blame, however. Leave this to the attorneys involved with the case.
• If there were witnesses, get statements. Also take down names and contact information. What did they see?
• Take pictures of the scene. Be sure to get shots of the damage to the bike and your body.
• See a doctor as soon as possible to assess injuries. Obtain copies of all medical records.
• Seek the help of an experienced serious motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.