If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact an Orange County motorcycle accident lawyer at Bisnar Chase for a free case review with no obligations. We have been representing motorcycle accident plaintiffs for over 46 years.
We’ve collected and settled over $900 million for our clients. To see if you’re entitled to fair compensation, give our team of highly skilled and experienced Orange County accident lawyers a call at (949) 203-3814.
At Bisnar Chase, we deal with motor vehicle accidents nearly every day. Over the years, many of these cases have involved motorcycle accidents throughout Orange County. Contact our highly skilled and experienced Orange County personal injury attorneys for a free consultation if you or a loved one have been injured in an accident.
The Benefits of Hiring the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
We have the skill and experience to navigate your motorcycle injury claim and recover maximum financial compensation for you.
There is no charge unless your motorcycle accident case is won. Our fees come as a percentage of the final settlement, so you don’t have to worry about upfront costs or unreasonable fees.
Plus, we will provide invaluable advice throughout the process and act as your advocate in court while protecting your best interests. We will not settle your case unless you are satisfied with the offer.
Orange County Motorcycle Accident Resources
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Like many other types of traffic accidents, motorcycle accidents can happen in a split second. It only takes a moment of distraction or inattention. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
Failure to look for motorcyclists before changing lanes, turning left, or entering traffic.
Running a red light or stop sign at an intersection.
Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
Exceeding the speed limit or driving at a speed that is unsafe for traffic, roadways, or weather conditions.
Driving while distracted.
Reckless or aggressive driving.
Dangerous or defective roadways and poorly designed street intersections.
Parking lots are hazardous to bikers.
Driver negligence.
Unsafe lane changes.
Lane splitting.
In many cases, motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers failing to take proper care. Injured motorcyclists should contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at Bisnar Chase, who can investigate the circumstances of their crash, providing expert guidance and superior representation.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Many motorcycle crashes result in serious injuries due to the speed and vulnerability of riders. Here are some of the most important steps you can take after an accident, depending on the circumstances and severity of the crash.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Getting immediate medical attention is important for your health and safety, and it allows a doctor or medical professional to legally document your motorcycle injuries. Without documentation or proof of injury and treatment, it can be very difficult to prove a legal case.
Follow up with all medical appointments. Many injury cases are lost because the client did not continue medical treatment.
Gather evidence, including witness statements, CCTV, pictures, and images of the accident and your injuries.
Notify the police and get a copy of the police report.
Notify your insurance company of the accident.
Contact an attorney. Do not talk in-depth to the insurance adjusters before consulting with a lawyer. Remember, the insurance companies are not on your side. They are looking to pay as little as possible.
Following these steps can boost your chances of success with a motorcycle accident injury claim. Above all, we advise getting the medical treatment you need and contacting a lawyer for expert help. Our team at Bisnar Chase offers a free consultation and provides the guidance you need after an accident.
Contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Orange County immediately at (949) 203-3814. We may be able to preserve your rights and fight for fair compensation.
Why Bisnar Chase?
There are plenty of law firms operating in Orange County, but not all offer the same level of skill and experience. Bisnar Chase is a top-rated and award-winning firm with a national reputation and a long history of success.
We have been operating for over 46 years.
Over that time, we have maintained a 99% success rate.
We have recovered more than $900 million for our clients.
Our firm is based in Newport Beach, in the heart of Orange County, and knows the area and the courts as well as anyone.
We have been securing compensation for motorcycle accident victims for decades. If you have a personal injury claim, Bisnar Chase is here to maximize the money you could recover.
Some of Our Motorcycle Accident Claim Results
$30,000,000 Auto v. Motorcycle Accident
$9,800,000 Auto v. Motorcycle Accident
$5,332,215 Auto v. Motorcycle Accident
$1,450,000 Auto v. Motorcycle Accident
$1,250,000 Auto v. Motorcycle Accident
Some other high-value results have confidential terms. Other settlements under $1 million are not listed, but we have handled cases of all levels. Contact us today to find out if we can take your case.
How Much is Your Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
The amount of money you will be entitled to will depend on the extent of your injuries and property damage. A minor case with minimal injuries could be worth $2–$10K in compensation, while a catastrophic injury claim could result in seven and eight-figure settlements or verdicts.
We seek compensation for factors including:
Medical expenses.
Future medical bills.
Lost wages.
Pain and suffering.
Compromised quality of life.
Our Orange County motorcycle attorneys will fight to recover compensation for your injuries and make you whole after an accident.
What are the Attorney's Fees?
We are transparent about our fees and work on a contingency fee basis. That means that we advance the expenses necessary to win your case, and you pay nothing out of pocket.
Our fees come from the final settlement or verdict at the end of the case. On average, California attorney fees are between 33% and 41%, depending on whether the case is settled pre-litigation or goes to trial. When a case goes to trial, it requires a lot more time and resources; therefore, the fees rise accordingly.
California law caps the legal fee percentage. Even so, some people are hesitant to hire a lawyer due to concerns over the fees, preventing them from seeking the fair financial compensation they deserve. However, statistics show that working with an Orange County lawyer will maximize a financial recovery, even after fees.
In a motorcycle accident case, there is no up-front risk or cost to the client. You don’t pay unless we win your case. Our initial consultation is always free, and you will not have to sign anything until you have discussed the fees with our intake team. Please rest assured that we are always upfront and honest with our potential clients.
California Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accidents
The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years in California. It is critical to file your lawsuit in time to preserve your rights.
Specifically, the courts state:
Two years following the personal injury.
One year from the date of discovery if the harm was not noticed immediately.
There are some exceptions. For example, the clock might start running on the date you discovered your injuries rather than the date of the accident. Time is also a lot more limited if a governmental entity is named among the defendants. To be safe, contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible after your bike crash.
Types of Motorcycle Accident Damages in California
Injured victims in California can seek fair compensation from the at-fault parties for motorcycle accident damages directly linked to the impact a crash has had on them.
The type of injuries you sustained will weigh heavily on your right to compensation. The more serious the injuries are, the higher your financial compensation will be.
Injuries
An injured motorcyclist can claim compensation for personal injuries. Most motorcycle accidents in Orange County involve a collision between a biker and another vehicle. Whether it involves a car accident in Orange County or another type of crash, the injured party will be able to file an insurance claim against the responsible party. If the accident is severe or the insurance claims adjuster denies fault, we can escalate and file a lawsuit.
Wrongful Death Damages
Motorcycle fatalities are disturbingly common. When an individual is killed in a motorcycle accident, their family members can file a wrongful death claim on their behalf. Wrongful death actions have a wider scope for damages. That means that surviving family members can claim for the loss of emotional and financial support, funeral costs, and the pain and suffering the victim endured, among other factors.
Hit-and-Run Damages
Hit-and-run motorcycle accidents often involve people with a reason to avoid detection, such as uninsured drivers or people with expired licenses. Even if the at-fault driver flees, you may have options. For example, an Orange County motorcycle attorney can help you recover compensation through an uninsured motorist clause (UM/UIM) in your own policy.
No matter the type of accident, you need an experienced lawyer to navigate the legal process and secure maximum compensation.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Motorcycle Accident Injury Claim?
The time it takes to settle your motorcycle crash case will depend on a variety of factors. These include:
The skill, experience, work ethic, and diligence of your legal team in working through the legal process.
The client’s cooperation in reviewing paperwork, attending depositions, and promptly turning over evidence and documentation to their personal injury lawyers.
Whether the case is settled with an insurance company or requires a trial.
The time it takes to resolve a case will vary, but settling a motorcycle accident case will typically take six months to two years. Discuss your specific case with your lawyer for a more accurate estimate.
Types of Motorcycle Crash Injuries
In a motorcycle crash, it is almost always the riders who suffer the more serious or catastrophic injuries. This is because motorcyclists are vulnerable compared to other vehicles on the road.
Cars and trucks are bigger and heavier, with significant blindspots and less maneuverability than motorcycles. When a passenger vehicle collides with a motorcycle, it is likely to knock the bike over and send the riders crashing to the ground at high speeds.
Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include:
Traumatic brain injuries or head injuries.
Neck and back injuries, including core and spinal cord injuries.
Whiplash.
Internal injuries, including internal bleeding and organ damage.
Broken bones or fractures.
Lacerations or amputations.
Road rash.
Soft tissue injuries.
Burn injuries.
Long-term PTSD.
Serious facial injuries if no helmet was worn.
During a motorcycle accident, the body is subject to rapid deceleration forces and high-impact trauma. These impacts can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and other catastrophic injuries that result in long-term damage.
If there is a direct impact on the head or neck area during an accident, it can cause further damage by fracturing bones in those areas and damaging delicate nerve tissue.
This type of trauma is often associated with long-term cognitive impairments and physical disabilities. If you have suffered injuries, contact our motorcycle accident attorneys for a free accident claim evaluation.
Proving a Motorcycle Accident Claim
In California, a motorcycle accident case involves proving that the other party was negligent, that their negligence caused the accident, and that the damages resulted from the accident.
At Bisnar Chase, we are injury lawyers who work solely for plaintiffs. For us to take a case, there must have been a physical injury. In addition, our team must establish several key points:
That the accident was caused by someone else’s negligence.
The negligent party breached a duty of care.
An injured victim (the plaintiff) suffered physical injuries and associated damages.
The accident directly contributed to those injuries.
To prove negligence, our team will investigate the incident and build a body of evidence that supports your injury case. This evidence can include:
Witness testimonies.
Medical records.
Photo and video evidence, such as dashcam footage.
Cell phone and bike data.
Expert analysis of the accident and reconstruction of the scene.
Police reports.
A knowledgeable Orange County motorcycle accident attorney can assist in collecting evidence that will substantiate a solid case, establishing the culpability and negligence of the other party in the collision.
Motorcycle accident claims can be tricky to prove. That’s why you need a law firm behind you with tough negotiators with the resources to fight for your rights every step of the way.
The defense team and insurance company will want to settle quickly and send you on your way with minimal compensation. Call our law firm to discuss your injuries and damages at (949) 203-3814. The consultation is free.
Orange County Motorcycle Accidents Statistics
The most recent available statistics for Orange County motorcycle accidents show hundreds of motorcycle fatalities and injuries every year across the area.
According to the California Highway Patrol’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), 18 motorcycle riders were killed and 796 were injured in Orange County accidents in one year alone.
Anaheim led all Orange County cities with 98 motorcycle injuries, followed by Santa Ana with 67 and Huntington Beach with 59.
OTS reports 657 injuries and deaths in 2020 from motorcycle accidents. They have not released an updated report as of 2023.
From 2011 to 2021, motorcycle accidents trended upwards.
Motorcycle riders are 4x more likely to suffer injury and 28x more likely to die in a crash than a car occupant.
If you have been injured, contact a top-rated Orange County motorcycle accident lawyer at Bisnar Chase for a free case evaluation. Injured victims are entitled to compensation, and our firm has won almost a billion dollars for our clients. Call (949) 203-3814 today.
Insurance Company Dangers to Avoid
Most of us pay our insurance premiums and hope that we’ll never need to use the policy. But when an accident happens, the worst thing you can do is start talking to the insurance adjusters. An insurance company is looking to pay you as little as possible and close the case.
Tips to Avoid Undervaluing Your Motorcycle Injury Claim
Keep conversations brief and limited. Only provide basic facts to the insurance company, such as your name, contact information, and when/where the accident occurred. Avoid discussing how the accident happened or the extent of your injuries.
Do not give a recorded statement. Politely decline any requests to record your conversation or provide a formally recorded account of the accident. Anything you say will be used against you later.
Do not sign any medical release forms. Adjusters may try to access your entire medical history to claim you had pre-existing conditions. Do not allow this without first consulting your injury attorney.
Do not admit any fault. Avoid apologetic language or anything construed as admitting blame for the accident, even partially. Let the adjuster investigate without speculating about the fault.
Do not accept a quick settlement offer. Adjusters will make a lowball offer shortly after the accident before you know the full extent of your injuries and damages. Do not feel pressured to settle right away.
Do not minimize your injuries. Avoid downplaying your injuries by saying you’re “fine” or speculating about your recovery. Symptoms may worsen later, and you don’t want to undermine your claim.
Refer the adjuster to your attorney. The best approach is often to tell the adjuster that your lawyer will handle all communications about your claim going forward. This protects you from saying anything that could hurt your case.
The bottom line is that the insurance company is not on your side, even when representatives seem friendly. They aim to limit payouts and use your statements against you. Call our Orange County motorcycle accident lawyers to start legal representation for your case. Call (949) 203-3814 for a free case evaluation.
Will Your Motorcycle Injury Case Go to Trial?
As experienced trial lawyers in California, we understand the legal complexities and nuances of representing our clients during motorcycle accident trials.
We’ve spent over four decades representing injured victims in car accident and motorcycle crash cases. It allows us to navigate the legal system with confidence and success.
Negotiating a settlement is the first choice in a personal injury claim. Trials are expensive, time-consuming, and unpredictable. A lot of law firms avoid them completely because they require a lot of resources, and there are no guarantees when it comes to a jury decision.
But Bisnar Chase has a team of outstanding trial lawyers who will take your case through the courts when required. We provide complete support and superior representation at trial.
Keys to Success in the Courtroom
1. Know the Terrain: California’s legal landscape regarding motorcycle accidents can be intricate. Familiarity with the state’s traffic laws, particularly those of bikers with motorcycle injuries, is critical to our success.
2. Proper Documentation: In partnership with our clients, we assemble thorough documentation that strengthens your case and bolsters your credibility in court. A data-driven, analytical mind can be a powerful tool for a legal team.
3. Expert Witnesses: In motorcycle accident trials, we enlist the expertise of accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, or engineers to provide technical insights and corroborate our arguments.
4. Advocacy: Beyond legal expertise, we prioritize empathy and advocacy for our clients. Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries and emotional trauma. Our focus is the well-being of our clients while fiercely advocating for their rights in court.
5. Preparation is Key: Diligent preparation is non-negotiable, and potential counterarguments and weaknesses in a case are always anticipated. We often conduct mock trials or practice sessions with our trial lawyers to refine our presentation and anticipate the courtroom dynamics.
6. Continued Support: Even after the trial concludes, we continue to support our clients and assist with any post-trial matters, such as appeals or negotiations. Our commitment to client satisfaction extends beyond the courtroom, leaving a lasting positive impact. Once you are a client of Bisnar Chase, you are a client for life. We will always be there for you when needed.
What is Comparative Negligence?
In California, comparative negligence is a legal doctrine that applies to personal injury cases. Under this rule, an injured plaintiff can recover damages from the defendant even if they are partially at fault for their accident.
They will be able to recover less money for damages because of their own fault. For example, if the plaintiff was found to be 40% at fault for their injuries and the defendant was found to be 60% at fault, then the plaintiff would only receive 60% of their total damages award.
Contact a professional motorcycle injury lawyer in Orange County for a detailed breakdown of your case. Attorneys specializing in these bike injury cases can get higher compensation.
Is Lane Splitting Legal?
Lane splitting is when a rider drives between two lanes of traffic. It can help motorcyclists zip between traffic. But critics say it is responsible for some motorcycle accidents, with riders putting themselves in danger of collisions with other drivers.
Although it may create more risk, lane splitting is legal in California. Under California law, riders should not travel more than 10 mph faster than surrounding traffic, but they are within their rights to ride the lines between lanes.
If you have been injured in a lane-splitting motorcycle accident in Orange County, contact our attorneys at Bisnar Chase for expert representation.
Motorcycle Auto Defects
In some cases, accidents are caused by a motorcycle defect that creates a dangerous situation for the rider. For example, there are documented cases involving brake failure or sudden acceleration. These issues can lead to a serious injury.
Bisnar Chase has a national reputation when it comes to winning auto defect cases and holding negligent manufacturers accountable. If you think a mechanical failure might have caused your motorcycle accident, contact our defective products team for an evaluation from an experienced auto defect attorney.
Staying Safe on Motorcycles in O.C.
Motorcycles are known to be extremely dangerous. But it isn’t the motorcycle itself that is dangerous, but the factors surrounding it. Riders can practice all of the following safety suggestions and still encounter hazards:
Proper Safety Gear
Riders should protect themselves by wearing helmets, full protective clothing (padded jackets and pants), gloves, boots, eye protection, etc.
Motorcycle Condition
Ensure that your bike is well-maintained and in good working order. Check with manufacturers for any recalls that might cause an accident.
Road-Ready and Defensive Driving
A motorcycle rider must be ready for anything out on the road. Many drivers of cars and trucks do not take proper care in looking out for motorcyclists. All riders need to be alert and quick to react. Just because motorcycles are quicker and more maneuverable than other vehicles, that doesn’t mean you can be reckless.
Riding risks
Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating and cost-effective. It offers commuters an easier way to make their way through Orange County’s congested freeways. However, riding a motorcycle also comes with significant risks.
Motorcycles are smaller vehicles that are easier to overlook than cars, trucks, or SUVs. They also provide very little protection to riders during a crash. Even the most skilled Orange County riders can be seriously injured in a traffic collision.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our injury law firm for a free personal injury case evaluation. Call (949) 203-3814 today.
Find a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near You
Bisnar Chase has five offices across Southern California locations and one San Francisco meeting location. Our offices are based in:
Newport Beach, Orange County
Los Angeles
Riverside
San Bernardino
San Diego
We want to make it as convenient as possible for our clients to meet with us. However, we also handle cases state-wide and will happily travel to you.
We are here to provide dedicated legal representation and pursue justice on your behalf. Our top-rated motorcycle accident attorneys have decades of experience helping victims recover from their losses, and we are familiar with all California courts.
Contact an Orange County Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The Orange County motorcycle accident lawyers of Bisnar Chase have represented California clients since 1978, including accident victims who had been told by other law firms that they did not have a case.
Motorcycle accident injury claims can be complex, but we have the resources and experience to get the best possible results in your case. With over 400 motorcycle fatalities annually in California, our law firm has handled many of these motorcycle accident cases with winning results.
Our accident attorneys are top-rated trial lawyers familiar with all Orange County courts and defense teams, and we will not settle your injury claim until you are satisfied.
Let us see what we can do for you. Call (949) 203-3814 for a free consultation with no obligations with out top-rated Orange County motorcycle accident lawyers at Bisnar Chase. You can also send us an email or use the live chat feature on our website. We look forward to hearing from you.
