Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Encino

Helping Riders Seek Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accidents are often traumatic, life-altering events that frequently result in severe injuries. Unlike other vehicles, a motorcycle passenger or rider is provided relatively little protection from the elements, the road, other cars, and the consequences of an impact in the event of a crash. Motorcyclists are too often sent spiraling through the air, only to be thrown to the roadway, facing frightening, serious injuries or worse.

Motorcycle accident victims may not receive the respect they deserve. Too often, there is a collective shrug among the public, as though motorcycle riding is so inherently dangerous that one is practically signing themselves up for catastrophe. While it is true that motorcycle riders are in more auto accidents than those who drive other vehicles, a motorcycle accident often results from another motorist failing to give a motorcyclist room on the road, the right-of-way, or failing to see they are sharing the road at all.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Encino

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, eating, talking on the phone, daydreaming, or doing other activities that take their attention off the road ahead may fail to see motorcyclists, leading to an impact that causes serious or fatal injuries.
• Drunk Driving: Impaired drivers have reduced reaction time and poor judgment, and when in this condition, bring a significant threat to motorcyclists sharing the roadways.
• Speeding: Excessive speed increases the risk of colliding with a motorcycle and the severity of the injuries sustained.
• Unsafe Merging: Drivers who do not check blind spots or have the poor habit of failing to signal before merging impact a motorcyclist riding in an adjacent lane.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Quick or erratic lane changes without checking for smaller vehicles can lead to severely injuring an innocent rider.
• Failing to See a Rider Who Is Lane Splitting: Motorcyclists who are legally riding between lanes can be struck when drivers don’t check mirrors or change lanes abruptly.
• Riders Making Left Turn at an Intersection: Many motorcycle accidents occur when the rider turns left across the path of an oncoming rider—due to misjudging speed or failing to see the motorcyclist at all.
• Failing to See a Motorcyclist Stopped Ahead: Rear-end collisions can be catastrophic for riders when distracted or inattentive drivers fail to see a stopped motorcycle at an intersection or in busy lanes of traffic that have halted.
• Dooring Accidents: When a driver or passenger opens a car door without checking for moving vehicles, a passing motorcyclist can crash directly into it, often with serious consequences.
• Aggressive Driving: Tailgating, road rage, and reckless driving behavior put motorcyclists at extreme risk, especially given their lack of physical protection.
• Faulty motorcycle parts: Tires, brakes, or other safety features that fail to operate as it can lead to a serious, catastrophic, or fatal motorcycle accident.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics: A National Epidemic

There are approximately four million registered motorcycles in the United States. Across the nation, motorcycle accidents with catastrophic injuries and fatal consequences have sharply risen over the past decade, and California has ranked among the most dangerous states for motorcycle riders. The beautiful climate means more locals and visitors can take advantage of the ability to use a motorcycle year-round. In a recent year, our state ranked second in the nation for motorcycle accident fatalities, and trends suggest that in future years, California will be ranked among the most dangerous yet again.

If you or a loved one have suffered a motorcycle accident injury — or if you have tragically lost someone as a direct result of a motorcycle crash — you may have the right to pursue compensation with the help of an Encino motorcycle accident lawyer.

Experience Matters.

The motorcycle accident lawyers of V&A Law Firm have half a century of legal experience representing clients in motorcycle accident cases similar to yours. We are ready to fight for you as your motorcycle accident attorneys in pursuit of the maximum compensation for your injuries and personal losses.

 

You should not have to be the one in pursuit of fair compensation from the at-fault driver. You should be allowed time to recover. As your motorcycle accident attorneys, we will take care of the insurance companies, the insurance claims adjuster, any contentious opposing legal counsel, and any other concerns that may arise.

Contact our Encino motorcycle accident attorney to schedule your free consultation today.

What Are The Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries?

Motorcycle injuries are unfortunately fairly commonplace in accidents, with seemingly very few motorcycle riders walking away unscathed. While a minor motorcycle accident may only result in bruises, road rash, or whiplash, a more serious accident could have life-threatening consequences.

Common motorcycle accident injuries include:

Broken Bones

Motorcycle crashes frequently result in fractures, including arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones—often requiring surgery and lengthy recovery.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the spine may result in paralysis, chronic pain, or permanent mobility issues, often altering a rider’s entire way of life.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Even with a helmet, riders are at risk of a TBI, which can cause cognitive issues, memory loss, mood changes, and long-term disability.

Broken Jaw

A broken jaw can impair eating, speaking, and breathing and may require wiring the broken jaw together or surgical reconstruction.

Burns

Contact with hot surfaces, spilled fuel, or road friction can cause severe burns that may lead to infection, scarring, and long-term skin damage.

Dental Injuries

Facial impacts can chip, break, or knock out healthy teeth, often necessitating emergency dental work or full mouth reconstruction.

Disfiguration

Facial trauma, deep lacerations, or burns can result in permanent facial disfigurement, affecting appearance, confidence, and quality of life.

Dislocated Limbs

High-impact collisions can force joints out of place, leading to intense pain, limited mobility, and the potential for recurring instability.

Eye Injuries

Debris, shattered visors, or blunt trauma can damage the eyes, sometimes leading to partial or total vision loss.

Skull Fractures

A skull fracture is a life-threatening injury that often accompanies traumatic brain injury and requires immediate medical intervention.

Internal Injuries

Blunt force trauma can harm internal organs or soft tissues, which may not be visible right away but can be fatal if untreated.

Limb Amputations

Severe crush injuries or surgical necessity can lead to partial or complete limb loss, requiring prosthetics and major life adjustments.

Loss of Sight, Hearing, or Speech

Head trauma can impair essential senses or functions, drastically affecting independence and daily life.

Muscle Strains and Tears

Sudden force or unnatural movement can cause painful muscle damage, limiting strength and range of motion during recovery.

Road Rash

Sliding across pavement can cause deep skin abrasions that range from mild to severe, sometimes requiring skin grafts or leading to infection.

Whiplash

Rapid head movement during impact can strain the neck’s soft tissues, leading to pain, stiffness, and other chronic symptoms.

A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study found that injuries to the lower extremities were the most common motorcycle accident injuries. The study specified that this was mostly broken legs, feet, ankles and fewer soft tissue injuries. Stats also show that wearing a motorcycle helmet dramatically reduced the chances of traumatic brain injuries and fatalities.

Motorcycle fatalities happen with more regularity than other deaths from collisions on the roadways. If you’ve lost a family member or another loved one in a fatal crash, speak to a motorcycle accident attorney at our law firm to discuss filing a wrongful death claim to seek justice and provide financial support for the family left behind.

Who is Liable?

For the motorcycle accident victim, it probably matters little what caused the accident as long as the driver who caused the accident is held financially responsible. With the help of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer, your motorcycle accident claims have a better chance of recovering maximum compensation to pay for the cost of medical care, property damage, and other losses.

What Can A Lawyer Do For Your Motorcycle Accident Claim?

California is an “at-fault state,” meaning that the at-fault party is responsible for paying for damages caused in a motorcycle accident. If they are insured, the other party’s insurance company typically pays a settlement. If the damages sought in a personal injury lawsuit exceed the limits on an auto insurance policy, further damages can be pursued from the at-fault party’s personal assets. If you have reason to believe that the party responsible lacks the funds to cover your losses, your motorcycle accident attorney will seek damages from all other potentially liable parties.

Types of Damages Sought in Motorcycle Accident Claims

If you are awarded damages in a motorcycle accident claim, you can expect at least two types: economic and non-economic losses. The damages could include:

Economic Damages

• Lost wages.
• Medical bills.
• Physical therapy.
• Reduced earning capacity.
• Estimated future medical costs.
• Property damage.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering.
• Emotional anguish.
• Diminished quality of life.
• Disabilities.
• Disfigurement.
• Lost companionship.
• Wrongful death.

Punitive Damages

In cases in which a vehicle driver acted in an extremely dangerous manner, you may be eligible to pursue punitive damages with your personal injury claim. Reach out to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney today.

Contact V&A Law Firm for a 15-Minute Free Consultation with Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyers.

Do You Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

You are not legally obligated to have an attorney to help you seek full compensation after a motorcycle accident in Encino. Filing a claim or lawsuit is a complicated legal procedure, with filing deadlines, the need for supporting evidence, and experience in the critical action of providing negligence.

Without a skilled attorney, you must gather all the evidence yourself. You will need to ensure all filings are submitted to the correct recipient within the time limits imposed by law and the proper value placed on the damages. You will be at risk of accepting a low settlement offer that may not compensate you for the full scope of your losses. Our law firm should evaluate any serious, catastrophic, or fatal motorcycle accident injuries before you decide.

Whether you’re the injured party or have an injured loved one, you want an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to represent your motorcycle accident claim. V&A Law Firm has years of experience representing injured motorcyclists under California’s motorcycle accident law.

Wrongful Death Claims in Motorcycle Accident Cases

In far too many cases, a motorcyclist suffers such severe injuries that even the most advanced medical care is unable to save them. This tragic situation can leave the close family emotionally devastated and facing extreme financial losses. A wrongful death claim can be filed to seek compensation to cover various losses, including the costs of medical care before death, funeral costs, the economic losses associated with losing the financial support of a loved one, and a monetary value put on the emotional losses suffered by the spouse and children.

The Statute of Limitations: How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?

Under California state law, you have two years from the time of an accident to file a lawsuit. Many cases are resolved by seeking compensation through an insurance claim, and that process should be initiated as soon as possible after the accident. It will be necessary, in either case, to provide a full accounting of all losses, with evidence proving negligence. The deadline can be extended in some rare cases. It is imperative that all evidence supporting your case is gathered and preserved before it is lost, destroyed, or eyewitness memories fade.

Motorcycle Accident Injuries We Handle

The legal team at V&A Law Firm represents injured riders who have sustained serious, catastrophic, or life-altering injuries, including:

• Broken bones and fractures
• Head and facial trauma, including jaw and dental injuries
• Burns
• Severe lacerations (road rash)
• Spinal cord injuries, quadriplegia, paraplegia
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Internal organ damage
• Eye injuries, vision loss
• Hearing loss
• Speech impairment
• Cognitive damage
• Dislocations
• Amputations
• Disfigurement
• Neck injuries
• Back injuries
• Soft tissue injuries

If you or a loved one has been seriously hurt in a motorcycle accident, our legal team is here to help you pursue the full compensation you deserve—while you focus on recovery.

FAQ: Motorcycle Accident Claims in Encino

What should I do after a motorcycle accident?

Start by seeking medical attention immediately, even if your injuries seem minor. Then, report the accident to law enforcement, gather any available evidence, and contact an attorney to protect your legal rights.

Who can be held liable for a motorcycle accident?

Depending on the situation, liability may fall on another driver, a government agency (for unsafe road conditions), a parts manufacturer, or other parties. A thorough investigation is key to identifying all responsible parties.

What types of compensation can I recover?

You may be eligible for damages covering medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, future care needs, property damage, and more. In cases of severe or permanent injury, long-term compensation may be available.

What if the other driver claims they didn’t see me?

This is a common excuse but not a valid defense. All drivers are responsible for being aware of their surroundings—including being aware of motorcyclists.

Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes. While helmet use can affect your case, especially in head injury claims, it does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation in California.

Do I need a lawyer for a motorcycle accident claim?

Absolutely. Insurance companies often undervalue motorcycle claims. An experienced attorney can advocate for your rights and pursue the full compensation you’re owed.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, certain factors may shorten this window, so don’t delay seeking legal advice.

What if the accident involved a hit-and-run or uninsured driver?

You may still have options through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Our firm can help you navigate these claims and seek every available source of compensation.

Does V&A Law Firm offer a free consultation?

Yes. We provide free, no-obligation 15-minute consultations to discuss your case.

Do you help non-English speakers?

Absolutely. We offer legal services in English, Spanish, and Farsi to ensure our clients can communicate clearly and confidently with their legal team.

Will my case go to trial?

Most motorcycle accident cases are resolved through settlement, but some do go to trial—especially if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation. At V&A Law, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial to ensure we’re ready to fight for the best possible outcome.

How much is my motorcycle accident worth in compensation?

The value of your case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and the long-term impact on your life. We conduct a thorough evaluation of all losses so we can pursue the compensation you are entitled to—nothing less.

Legal Support You Can Trust: Experienced, Talented, and Focused

At V&A Law Firm, we understand that a motorcycle accident can instantly change a life—sometimes forever. That’s why our legal team is committed to providing more than just legal representation—we deliver trusted guidance and ongoing communication. We take a personal approach that reflects our genuine concern for those we represent.

Our Legal Team: Trusted, Talented, and Dedicated to Service

Led by Founder and Managing Partner Ghazal Amy Vahdat, our team takes the time to understand your story, your injuries, and your goals. We know that no two cases are alike, and we treat every client with the individual care and attention they deserve.

Whether you’re dealing with mounting medical bills, lost wages, or the emotional toll of recovery, we’re here to help you move forward. From your first consultation to the resolution of your case, you’ll work directly with an attorney who is focused on your best outcome.

Awards and Honors

Our legal team has the honor of receiving several awards, including a 10.0 rating on Avvo and a listing in Super Lawyers as a Rising Star. These honors reflect our commitment to helping our clients through one of life’s most difficult situations—ensuring a settlement after a motorcycle accident is fair and achieved as quickly as possible.

Why Choose V&A Law Firm?

When you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need more than a law firm—you need a team that truly understands what you’re going through. At V&A Law Firm, we don’t treat you like a case number. We treat you like family.

• Personalized Legal Support: We take the time to listen, understand your situation, and build a strategy tailored to your specific needs and recovery goals.
• Led by a Trusted Advocate: Founder and Managing Partner Ghazal Amy Vahdat is known for her compassion, sharp legal insight, and relentless pursuit of justice for injury victims.
• Skilled, Aggressive Representation: Whether in negotiations or at trial, we fight to secure the maximum compensation you deserve—because we know what’s at stake.
• We Speak Your Language: To serve our diverse community, we offer legal services in English, Spanish, and Farsi, ensuring you feel heard and understood.
• No Fees Unless We Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay no legal fees unless we recover compensation on your behalf.
• Dedicated to Your Recovery: From handling medical bills to dealing with insurance companies, we take the pressure off you—so you can focus on healing.

At V&A Law, we combine legal excellence with genuine care. When you trust us with your case, you’re not just hiring an attorney—you’re gaining a team that stands with you, supporting you and your family until the case is resolved. Call us at 818-369-3270 for a free 15-minute case evaluation.