If you have ever looked at Los Angeles motorcycle accident data, you’d be hard pressed to  lay eyes on a brand-new motorcycle and not imagine a destructive accident.  According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, the number of motorcycle accident fatalities has increased 153% in just nine years, from 1998 to 2007.  It’s easy to understand why, with the incredibly high level of traffic and large number of roadways in Los Angeles and Orange County. Bikers and cyclists, even when following all state safety protocol, such as wearing helmets and protective gloves, pants, boots and jackets, have comparatively little protection when colliding with a motor vehicle (whose driver is protected by seatbelts and a large metal cage that’s designed for impact). In addition to these threats, common road hazards like potholes, ice, cracks or slick roads provide much greater risk for motorcyclists than drivers. Motorcycle accident injuries are often serious – even fatal. They range from broken bones, bruises and scrapes to spinal cord and traumatic brain injuries.

Motorcycle accidents can leave riders paralyzed, as amputees, or with other types of permanent disability. While the hospital bills for a single injury alone can put financial strain on the biker’s family, those who are permanently disabled in bike crashes often face a lifetime of medical bills and an inability to work. At Panish, Shea and Boyle, our car and motorcycle accident attorney team advocates for innocent riders who have faced injury and harm due to careless drivers. We have a solid track record for success in ensuring insurance companies compensate injured motorcyclists to the fullest extent possible. Our clients have been able to claim monetary damages to cover their medical expenses, both current and ongoing, as well as money for lost income, rehabilitation and noneconomic losses like pain and suffering. California is one of the few states that allows lane-splitting, a dangerous practice in which motorcyclists can drive on the lane divider (the double yellow or white line) between slowly moving or stopped vehicles.

Bikers like this practice because it allows them to move more quickly through stopped or slow traffic, but it has resulted in three deaths in the past year alone. The fault isn’t entirely on the bikers; drivers don’t always know to look for a lane-splitting biker, and may pick up speed when the traffic begins to clear without checking for someone alongside them or allow them back into the lane. California law allows that more than one person may be responsible for an accident. At Panish, Shea and Boyle, we work closely with police officers, witnesses and experts who can help us determine exactly who is at fault in your case. In cases where the motorcyclist and driver are both at fault, we determine who is more at fault – being partially responsible for the crash doesn’t deprive a victim of their right to damages. It simply means they may receive less compensation than they might have. If you or a loved one are in a motorcycle accident, contact a PS&B attorney right away – before you sign any document or agreement.

Our experienced team of motor vehicle accident attorneys will review your case and protect your interests. At Panish Shea & Boyle, you will get personal attention from accomplished Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers with a deep understanding of California traffic and liability law. Don’t take on the additional burden of advocating for yourself when you’ve been through the shock and stress of a crash. bmw motorcycle dealers madison wiLet our “Tier 1” firm handle your legal needs during this difficult time.motorcycle helmet sun visor strip Call our Los Angeles office toll free today at 877-800-1700 for a free, confidential case evaluation with our motorcycle accident attorneys.motorcycle shop in shawnee ok

When only one pharmacist is on duty the Pharmacy may be closed for 30 minutes between the hours of 1:30pm and 2:30pmDriving a motorcycle instead of (or in addition to) a car can be beneficial in a number of ways. For one thing, motorcycles are less expensive than most cars all around.  When considering purchase price, fuel, and maintenance, you could be paying considerably less than a standard sedan.bill of sale snowmobile nh They also offer convenience, especially if you live in a state where lane-splitting is legal and parking is sparse. motorbikes for sale in kwazulu natalIf you’ve had to suffer through gridlock during your commute or you’ve attempted to squeeze into a downtown parking space, you can definitely see the appeal of a motorcycle.used motorcycles for sale in chico ca

That said, motorcycles can be dangerous. Even safe and responsible drivers are sometimes at the mercy of much larger vehicles that might not see them on the roadways. Insurance is therefore essential.  However, there are a few things you need to know about motorcycle policies before you select the first option that comes along.cheap motorcycles for sale in evansville indiana Just as you shop around for competitive car insurance rates, not all motorcycle insurance policies are the same, either. They may differ from carrier to carrier and one policy to the next. It is very important to read the terms of any policy so that you understand what you’re getting for your premiums. In order to get the coverage you want at a price you can afford, you’ll have to consider deductibles and shop around to find the carrier and policy that best suits your needs. The average motorcycle insurance policy covers your bike and any persons injured in an accident, including you and others.  

This is considered a full-coverage policy in most cases. Depending on the policy you pick, your bike might not even be covered for certain accidents.  You might be left without coverage if you hit an animal or a stationary object or wipe out. You’ll want to start with a policy that at least covers your vehicle and any people involved in an accident.  There is a good chance you’ll also want some supplemental insurance. Riding a bike can save you money over driving a car, but the insurance policies are different.  You need to understand what your policy covers so you don’t end up paying out-of-pocket for major expenses following an accident. For example, what happens if another motorcyclist or driver involved in an accident doesn’t carry insurance? Comprehensive coverage will pay for all relevant expenses. What about the cost of equipment like your helmet, boots, gloved, and leathers?  All of your riding gear can be pricy, and one good hit to your helmet will leave you looking for a replacement for the sake of safety.

You may also have extra parts on your bike, such as panniers, a passenger seat, or different handlebars or head and tail lights. Add-ons to your motorcycle insurance policy can gain you coverage for these pricy items. Do you have AAA or other roadside assistance coverage?  If not, then you should also ask about packages that include extras like towing and labor for breakdowns. You may also want to consider coverage for rental bikes or other vehicles (like jet skis or snowmobiles) when you travel. When you purchase full-coverage automobile insurance, you can generally anticipate enough coverage to repair or replace your vehicle.  You can also expect as several thousand dollars to pay for the expenses of anyone else involved in an accident. However, the minimums for motorcycle insurance are bound to be a lot lower, mainly because motorcycles tend to cost less than cars. It’s important to understand the minimums of your policy in case you feel the need to purchase additional coverage.

You don’t necessarily want to opt for cheap motorcycle insurance just because you’re a skilled and responsible rider. If you were the only one on the road, this might be fine.  Unfortunately, other drivers can cause accidents, too.  Even animals and weather conditions could trigger a crash. You need to prepare for any scenario by purchasing comprehensive insurance coverage. Of course, this doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to paying through the nose. There are plenty of discounts available. Your best option is probably to pair your motorcycle policy with other insurance you already have. Bundling with the carrier that provides you with home, automobile, and even life insurance policies can net you a discount on all of your insurance coverage. You should always ask about additional discounts if you have a clean driving record or other considerations, as well. You might think your classic or custom bike isn’t eligible for standard insurance coverage, or that the policies available won’t suit your needs.