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Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Know Your Rights

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Know Your Rights

The wind, the open road, the freedom — riding a motorcycle in Southern California isn’t just a way to get around. It’s a lifestyle. But when you’re hit by a distracted driver or forced off the road by someone who “didn’t see you,” that freedom can turn into months — or years — of recovery.

Motorcycle accidents are rarely minor. And when they happen, riders often pay the steepest price. At Veliz Legal, we represent injured riders across Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley, helping them understand their legal rights and fight for the compensation they need to move forward.

Why Motorcycle Accident Claims Are So Different

Unlike car accidents, motorcycle crashes often result in far more serious injuries — and insurance companies know it. But instead of helping riders recover, they often push back harder, using tired stereotypes and excuses to avoid paying what a case is really worth.

Common tactics we’ve seen include:

  • Blaming the rider for speeding or “riding recklessly”
  • Downplaying serious injuries like road rash or fractures
  • Arguing that protective gear would have prevented the injury
  • Offering fast, lowball settlements before you know the full extent of your injuries

This is why having a dedicated motorcycle accident attorney on your side is so important.

Top Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in California

Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of drivers who simply don’t pay attention to riders. Some of the most common scenarios include:

  • Cars making left turns in front of oncoming motorcycles
  • Sudden lane changes without checking blind spots
  • Rear-end collisions at red lights or stop signs
  • Drivers opening doors into oncoming motorcycles
  • Speeding or distracted drivers failing to yield
  • Unsafe road conditions or debris in bike lanes

Common Motorcycle Injuries We See

Motorcyclists don’t have the same protections as drivers — so even a “minor” crash can cause major injuries. These are some of the most frequent injuries we see in motorcycle accident cases:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (even with a helmet)
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Multiple fractures and broken bones
  • Severe road rash and skin grafts
  • Internal bleeding and organ damage
  • Emotional trauma and PTSD
  • Permanent disfigurement or loss of mobility

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash, here are some critical steps to take:

  • Seek medical attention immediately — even if you feel okay.
  • Call the police and request a report at the scene.
  • Take photos of your bike, injuries, the crash location, and any visible damage.
  • Get contact information from witnesses, the other driver, and their insurance.
  • Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
  • Document your recovery — keep medical records, receipts, and notes on how the injury affects your life.

How Compensation Works in a Motorcycle Injury Case

Depending on your injuries and how the crash occurred, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Emergency medical care and long-term treatment
  • Lost wages and future earning potential
  • Pain and suffering
  • Permanent disability or disfigurement
  • Emotional distress
  • Property damage (your motorcycle and gear)

Insurance companies often don’t make this process easy. But with the right legal strategy, riders can recover what they’re owed.

Why Riders Trust Veliz Legal

At Veliz Legal, we don’t treat motorcycle cases like car accidents — because they’re not. We understand the risks riders face, and we know how to challenge insurance companies that try to shift the blame. Our team is committed to protecting your rights and making sure your recovery — both financial and physical — comes first.

Let’s Talk About Your Motorcycle Accident Case

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles or the San Fernando Valley, don’t wait. Veliz Legal is here to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a free consultation today. Let’s get you back on the road to recovery.

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