Skilled Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Oakland, CA
Oakland motorcyclists have access to some of the most stunning views in the East Bay area. The Berkeley/Oakland Hills, Redwood Road, and Niles Canyon Historic District rides are just a few of the local routes that motorcyclists take to feel the wind in their hair and take in the sun-soaked beauty of the East Bay region.
Most motorcycle rides in the area will go off without a hitch. Others end in tragedy. Single vehicle and motorcycle wrecks can prevent a motorcycle enthusiast from ever straddling a bike again. When rides go wrong, the Oakland accident lawyers at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger are available.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Oakland
Despite their nose, motorcycle riders are more at risk than car passengers while on the road. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents – most commonly at intersections- include:
- Drivers fail to adequately look before left-hand turns as a motorcyclist moves through an intersection
- Lane splitting
- Roadway hazards
According to California Highway Patrol, lane splitting is officially legal across California; but, only in low speed/high traffic situations. Motorcyclists must use extreme caution to avoid lane splitting accidents.
Accidents involving motorcyclists are often more severe than car accidents as the bikes lack many safety features standard in cars. They can fly into the air at relatively low speeds and suffer head injuries, severe road rash, spinal cord injuries, and more. While people, in general, are quick to label motorcyclists as reckless drivers, passenger vehicle drivers are often liable in motorcycle accident claims.
Motorcycle Laws in California
In a motorcycle accident, both laws and prudence matter. Technically, motorcyclists over the age of 18 do not have to wear a helmet. In reality, choosing not to wear a helmet can reduce the likelihood of compensation – particularly in head injury claims.
In addition to following all of the rules of the road, we strongly advise motorcyclists to wear appropriate motorcycle gear, to drive at appropriate speeds, and to maintain their bikes according to manufacturer specifications. Oakland, like many other cities in California, uses traffic cameras. What appears on those cameras can impact a personal injury claim.
The Right Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Oakland
When auto defects and careless drivers cause motorcycle accidents, the Sacramento motorcycle attorneys at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger can represent injured motorcyclists and help them secure financial compensation for their injuries. Among our successes, we have obtained a $5.65 million settlement for a motorcycle accident that resulted in paraplegia and a $4.5 million settlement for a motorcycle accident that resulted in the loss of a leg.
Our firm has served the Bay Area since 1959. We are proud to have maintained a 98% recovery rate over the last decade; and, we take every claim on contingency. If we do not secure compensation for your injuries, we will not charge you any legal fees. Our clients love working with us because we are approachable and effective. Our peers respect us because we have a track record of professionalism, ethics, and success. You won’t find a more dedicated group of personal injury attorneys anywhere in Northern California.
Contact An Oakland Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
After a motorcycle accident, an insurer may try to contact you with a settlement offer. Avoid speaking to any insurance adjustor until you speak with an attorney. If you have a serious injury from a motorcycle accident, you may have a right to more compensation. The team at Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger can help you determine if moving forward with a legal claim makes sense. Discuss your claim with one of our attorneys today free.
