Motorcycle enthusiasts relish the joy of the open road, and most defy the risks of accidental injury. The vast majority of riders will remain safe, but some do fall victim to a catastrophic accident. If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious crash, talk to motorcycle accident attorney Scott Sumner at Sumner Law. This Walnut Creek, California, practice is devoted to helping injury victims, and Scott has over two decades of experience handling motorcycle accident cases throughout Contra Costa County and the Bay Area. Liability issues can be tricky in a motorcycle accident, and a knowledgeable lawyer can make a difference.

A former motorcycle accident victim himself, Scott Sumner will protect your rights and ensure you receive the full compensation to which you are entitled.

About Motorcycle Accidents

The most common causes of traffic accidents can be attributed to inadequate surveillance, distraction and inattention. When a vehicle driver is distracted or daydreaming, a nearby motorcycle can be easily missed. These types of accidents often occur at intersections or during a lane change, and the motorcycle and rider are most likely to suffer acute damage and injury.

A serious motorcycle accident can leave the driver and passenger with devastating injuries, including head and brain trauma, multiple broken bones or spinal cord injury. These injuries can affect the victim’s ability to maintain employment, among other life-changing losses. Life can be turned upside down, with a new focus on medical care and accommodation for long-term disability.

Victims of a negligent driver are entitled to compensation for injuries and losses, as well as help to move forward into the future. Typical legal damages include loss of income, medical and rehabilitative care, pain and suffering, and more. When an untimely death is caused by an accident, the family is left to struggle emotionally and financially, and a wrongful death case will include additional damages for bereaved family members.

Sometimes, a motorcycle crash involves a single vehicle, and can be caused by defective parts or poor design. Riders should be able to rely on the safety and integrity of their bike, and product liability laws provide protection in these types of cases.

Liability Issues

In an accident, it is the insurance adjuster’s job to minimize the victim’s damages and deflect blame. California is a “pure comparative fault rule” state, so accident victims are often compensated relative to their degree of fault.

You can receive compensation if you are found partially at fault for an accident, but will likely receive less. For this reason, it is important to speak to your attorney before giving formal statements to insurance adjusters.

As a rider previously involved in an injury accident himself, Scott Sumner is passionate about defending the rights of injured motorcyclists, and he will work hard to maximize your compensation in an accident.

In a motorcycle accident, victims may deal with bias, both from insurance companies and courtroom jurors. Some people may excuse a car driver striking a motorcycle, since the bike is inherently less visible. Scott Sumner understands all the legal issues in a motorcycle accident case and how to fight back effectively.

Contact Us Today

Sumner Law has a strong record of results, with many million-dollar settlements and verdicts. We offer a free consultation for accident victims. Contact Sumner Law today to schedule your appointment.