Vehicle, Motorcycle, Bicycle, & Pedestrian Accidents
When involved in a motor vehicle accident, hit on your bicycle, or struck by a vehicle while a pedestrian, one’s life can be turned upside down. What happened? What type of careless conduct was involved? What have been the debilitating effects on the victim’s life? How will the injuries affect their life in the future?
These are just a few of the important questions that Traut Injury Law will tackle on behalf of the client and tell the impactful story to the claims representative and jury, if necessary.
In a 2022 jury verdict, Eric and Connor’s client was awarded $5.2 million against the defendant, County of Orange, At the time of trial, the plaintiff had undergone three neck surgeries and was still recovering. This significant, yet fair amount, was to cover past and future medical bills, past and future pain and suffering, and the effects the physical limitations have had and will continue to have on her life. This verdict was one of the largest in California for a spine injury victim. Inexplicably, the last settlement offer by the County of Orange was an insultingly low $150,000.
Here are some common types of accidents for each mode of transportation:
Car Accidents
- Rear-end collisions: These occur when a vehicle crashes into the back of another. Often caused by distracted driving,
tailgating, or sudden stops. - T-bone collisions: Occur when one car crashes into the side of another, usually at intersections.
- Head-on collisions: These are among the most dangerous, happening when two cars collide front-to-front.
- Sideswipe accidents: Occur when two vehicles traveling side by side make contact, often due to lane changes or merging.
- Hit and run: The driver responsible for the accident leaves the scene without exchanging information or offering aid.
Motorcycle Accidents
- Left-turn accidents: Often occur when a car turns left in front of a motorcycle, either due to not seeing the rider or misjudging the motorcycle’s speed.
- Lane splitting accidents: Motorcyclists driving between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic can be involved in accidents when drivers don’t see them. Lane splitting is legal in California, but can still be a dangerous practice when not seen by a driver changing lanes or opening a door.
- Blind spot accidents: Motorcycles are smaller and can easily be missed in a driver’s blind spot, leading to collisions during lane changes.
- Loss of control: Motorcyclists can lose control due to road hazards, slick roads, or mechanical failure.
Bicycle Accidents
- Dooring accidents: A cyclist may collide with a car door that is suddenly opened into their path.
- Right hook accidents: Occur when a car turns right in front of a cyclist going straight, causing the cyclist to crash into the car.
- Sideswipe accidents: Similar to cars, cyclists can be sideswiped by vehicles passing too closely.
- Intersection accidents: Drivers may fail to yield the right of way to cyclists at intersections, leading to collisions.
- Hit by another cyclist: Cyclists can be sideswiped by a passing cyclist or cut off when a cyclist ahead falls into your path.
Pedestrian Accidents
- Crosswalk accidents: Pedestrians are often struck by vehicles that fail to stop or yield at crosswalks.
- Backover accidents: Drivers may not see a pedestrian when backing out of a driveway or parking spot.
- Turning vehicle accidents: Pedestrians can be hit by vehicles turning at intersections if the driver doesn’t check for pedestrians.
- Distracted driver accidents: Drivers who are texting, using their phones, or otherwise distracted may fail to notice pedestrians, resulting in accidents.
Steps to Take if You’re Injured
- Seek medical attention: Get immediate medical care for any injuries.
- Document the accident: Gather evidence such as photos, witness phone numbers, and a police report if applicable.
- Consult a Traut Injury Law: A personal injury attorney can help evaluate your case and guide you through the legal process.
You are entitled to compensation if another party’s negligence caused your injuries. Each case varies, and it’s essential to consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and options.
