Motorcycle Accident Attorney:
Understanding Your Rights
Although a motorcycle accident can happen in the blink of an eye, these unfortunate events are often complex incidents that could result in long-term consequences. If you or someone you love has sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident and you believe another person’s negligence caused the incident, contact the Law Offices of Patrick G. Cadiz, LLC today to speak with a motorcycle accident attorney and learn more about your legal options.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
While motorcycle accidents can happen for any number of reasons, the most common causes are due to the negligence of another driver. Negligent actions may include cutting off a motorcyclist at an intersection, swerving in front of a motorcyclist, or failing to yield when appropriate, following posted speed limits, or leaving ample room in between the vehicles. Additionally, a negligent driver may be operating his or her car under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or he or she may neglect to notice obstacles and other drivers on the roadway.
Since motorcyclists have little in terms of protection between themselves, the weather, and other cars, the injuries motorcyclists sustained in accidents may be incredibly devastating. Common injuries include bone fractures, paralysis, head trauma, loss of limbs, neck injuries, spinal cord injuries, disfigurement, brain damage, and death.
Responsibility in Motorcycle Accidents
A critical part of pursuing a claim for compensation is determining who is responsible for the damages and injuries. In order to name the party responsible for causing the accident, your motorcycle accident lawyer must first pinpoint the cause of the incident, which might not be evident at first, especially if the victim was rendered unconscious during or following the accident.
Although you may wish to represent yourself, it’s essential to work with a motorcycle accident lawyer since there may be more than one individual or entity responsible for the accident. For instance, while a driver’s negligence could have caused the event, a defect in the roadway or a defectively-manufactured helmet could have made injuries worse. In these cases, a motorcycle accident attorney can determine whether additional parties may be held responsible for the incident, including:
- The motorcycle rental company
- The maker of the motorcycle or parts
- The repair shop responsible for maintaining and inspecting the motorcycle
- The other driver
- The seller or maker of safety equipment such as helmets
- The government entity or agency responsible for the design, maintenance, or construction of the road
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident and you’d like to speak to learn more about your options and whether you’re entitled to seek compensation from those allegedly responsible, contact a motorcycle accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Patrick G. Cadiz, LLC. Depending on the circumstances, you and your motorcycle accident attorney may be eligible to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit and recover compensation for funeral or burial expenses, loss of consortium, and other damages. Contact a motorcycle accident attorney today at (503) 858-3261 for more information.
The Law Offices of Patrick Cadiz in Portland Oregon and Hillsboro OR are bi-lingual Spanish speaking attorney offices.