Lake Forest Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
It is important that all Lake Forest motorcycle riders take the necessary steps to protect themselves when riding. It is common for Lake Forest motorcycle accidents to result in serious injuries. Therefore, all riders would be well advised to practice safe riding habits. If you or a loved one is injured in a Lake Forest motorcycle accident, it is important that you understand your legal rights and options.
Lake Forest Motorcycle Accidents
Many riders assume that they will never be involved in an accident. Why wear a helmet if the odds of you getting in an accident are low, right? Wrong. In fact, this type of invincible mentality is dangerous. The truth is, many motorcycle riders are injured or killed in Orange County accidents each year. According to California Highway Patrols 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), one person was killed and 19 were injured in Lake Forest motorcycle accidents. During that same year, there were 17 fatalities and 735 injuries reported as a result of Orange County motorcycle accidents.
The Importance of Wearing the Right Helmet
Under California law, all riders and passengers must wear a helmet. California Vehicle Code, Division 12, Chapter 5, Article 7, Section 27803 states: "(a) A driver and any passenger shall wear a safety helmet meeting requirements established pursuant to Section 27802 when riding on a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle. "(b) It is unlawful to operate a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or motorized bicycle if the driver or any passenger is not wearing a safety helmet."
Having a properly fitted helmet can greatly increase your chances of surviving a collision. While wearing a helmet cannot prevent all head injuries, it can greatly reduce the probability of the victim suffering a traumatic brain injury. It is also common to see motorcyclists in Lake Forest wearing novelty helmets, which are not approved by the Department of Transportation. When you buy a helmet, appearance does not matter. Buy the one that has a face shield and one that will offer you maximum protection in the event of a crash. Even if you are involved in an accident, at least you will have prevented even further serious injury by wearing the right helmet. Even though you may wear a helmet, serious injury can still occur. If you are a victim of serious injury during a motorcycle accident, it is imperative to contact Lake Forest motorcycle accident lawyers for advice regarding your situation.
Be Careful when Lane-Splitting
California law does permit motorcycle riders to split lanes if they do so carefully and at a safe speed. All riders who choose to lane split should do so slowly and carefully. It only takes one car driver to drift from his or her lane to cause a serious injury accident.
Ride Defensively
To ride safely in Lake Forest requires skill and caution. All riders would be well advised to leave a large amount of space between themselves and the car in front of them. When at an intersection, it is not wise to pull up alongside a vehicle that is about to turn. Riders should assume that car drivers do not see them and they should make eye contact with the other motorists before entering an intersection.
Wear Protective Gear
Wearing motorcycle gear is necessary when riding. Even though it can get hot in Lake Forest, it is important to wear long pants and a jacket when riding a motorcycle. Motorcyclists should also wear gloves at all times. Even minor collisions can result in a sliding accident and failure to wear protective gear can result in painful injuries such as road rash that require surgery and result in permanent scarring.
Protecting your Rights
If you have been injured by a negligent driver, the experienced Lake Forest motorcycle accident lawyers at Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys can help you better understand your legal rights and options. You may have to fight for your rights against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. Having a skilled attorney on your side can increase your chances of holding the at-fault driver accountable for the crash and getting the compensation you need and rightfully deserve. In cases involving negligence or wrongdoing, financial compensation may be available for your medical bills, lost wages, the cost of rehabilitation services and other related damages. Please contact us to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights.
