If you or a loved one has recently been injured in an accident while on a motorcycle, you may be wondering what the average motorcycle accident settlement in California is. To do this, it is important to learn what factors can affect the amount of compensation that can be awarded in a personal injury case and the average settlement of motorcycle incidents.
At Kreeger Law Firm, we provide each client and their case with the time, care, and attention they deserve. Our attorneys are sympathetic to the unnecessary and unwanted harm you’ve suffered. We can work hard to earn you the maximum settlement that you are entitled to by law.
What Factors Determine How Much a Motorcycle Accident Victim Receives in Compensation?
A major influencing factor on how much a settlement will be is the degree of liability, if any, the victim had in the accident. Even if you are partially at fault for the incident, you can still receive a settlement payout. However, the settlement will be reduced by the percentage that you are determined to be responsible for the incident. Another factor is the at-fault party’s insurance, such as the company’s willingness to negotiate and if the coverage is limited.
Injury severity also affects the amount of compensation. Some injuries take time to display symptoms or the full extent of harm. The more serious the inflicted damage is, the more you’re likely to get in a settlement due to the extensive medical treatment that is required. Additionally, more severe wounds will likely result in more time away from work, emotional distress, and other losses.
An important factor that will impact your motorcycle accident settlement is having a qualified and experienced personal injury attorney. A quality motorcycle lawyer knows the compensation amount you’re expected to receive, and they can ensure that you don’t settle for a lower payout.
Typical Physical Injuries in Motorcycle Collisions
Motorcyclists tend to be more vulnerable than other motorists in car crashes. This is due to a motorcycle’s lack of inherent protection, exposing the rider to greater potential harm. Thus, they are more likely to endure more severe injuries, such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be very dangerous and potentially life-altering. These occur as a result of the head violently shaking or getting hit against an object or the ground. Sometimes, an impact can puncture the skull and/or brain. TBIs can cause difficulties with basic functions, such as speech or body movement, and are sometimes even fatal.
- Whiplash, the back-and-forth head/neck movement upon impact, damages and strains the neck and shoulder. Common symptoms include limited range of motion, muscle tightness, headaches, tenderness, pain, fatigue, and dizziness. Whiplash may also damage the spinal cord and nearby nerves.
- Spinal cord wounds can be especially damaging to the victim, possibly causing partial or complete paralysis.
- Burns and road rash from being propelled from the motorcycle often occur in these incidents.
- Bone fractures and other internal injuries are not always detectable right after an accident, so it’s important to promptly seek medical attention following the incident.
Average Settlements and Ways to Maximize Your Payout
Motorcycle accidents causing moderate physical injuries may receive between $50,000 and $150,000 on average. Victims who suffered severe wounds may be compensated anywhere from $150,000 to $500,000 on average.
It’s advisable to seek medical attention soon after your accident. There may be internal wounds and other injuries that you aren’t able to recognize, and it also provides you with documentation of your injuries. This can serve as important evidence in your injury claim.
Furthermore, it helps to collect any evidence that you can. This can include photos of the accident site, contact information for any witnesses, and especially the other party’s insurance provider information. You should also keep a record of all expenses related to your accident, like property damage repairs and medical bills.
Avoid posting about your injuries and/or the accident online, and don’t make any comments about fault at the accident scene. Finally, try not to speak with insurance adjusters before consulting with a qualified personal injury attorney.
FAQs
Q: How Much Is the Average Accident Settlement in California?
A: The average settlement payout for a motorcycle accident depends on the circumstances. Influencing factors can include:
- How severe the sustained bodily injuries are
- How experienced the motorcycle accident lawyer representing the case is
- The degree to which the injured party is at fault, if at all, for the accident
Settlements for minor injury accidents range from $10,000 to $50,000.
Q: How Much Is a Whiplash Settlement in California?
A: How much a whiplash settlement will amount to depends on the injury’s severity, among other contributing factors. “Whiplash” is the harsh and sudden back-and-forth motion of a person’s neck during the impact of a motor vehicle collision.
This causes the muscles and ligaments in the neck and shoulder regions to strain, causing pain and tightening/stiffening. In extreme accidents, whiplash can damage the spinal cord and nearby nerves. Settlements for mild to moderate whiplash range, on average, between $10,000 and $100,000.
Q: How Are Personal Injury Settlements Paid Out in California?
A: Personal injury settlements are paid by the liable party’s insurance. Upon the settlement agreement, the insurance company sends the check to your lawyer for review, who deposits it into an account until it’s time for payment.
Your attorney can ensure that your medical expenses, their service fee, and any other court costs you owe are accounted for. After that, you can expect to get the remaining settlement in the mail. You may opt to receive a lump-sum payout or periodic installments.
Q: What Is the Average TBI Settlement in California?
A: The average traumatic brain injury (TBI) settlement depends on how severe the injuries are. TBIs result from the victim’s head sustaining damage after a sudden violent motion caused by the accident. The skull/brain may be punctured to some degree or was hit against a surface. This type of injury can range from mild to severe.
Cases with moderate injuries see an average settlement ranging from $50,000 to $150,000.
Talk to an Experienced Attorney to Learn the Value of Your Injury Case
Schedule a consultation with a skilled personal injury lawyer at Kreeger Law Firm today or as soon as you can. The earlier you get in touch with an attorney, the higher the chances are that you can receive an adequate settlement.
