A motorcycle accident can quickly turn your life upside down. Because there is so little protection for riders and such a disparity in size and weight of motorcycles compared to vehicles, motorcycle injuries are often catastrophic.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need a Santa Cruz motorcycle accident attorney with a track record of winning big for their clients. You need Jacoby & Meyers to fight for you.
For over 50 years, our accident attorneys have recovered maximum compensation for California motorcycle accident victims, and we want to do the same for you.
Contact us at 888-966-7991 or visit our contact page to schedule a free case evaluation. We will answer your questions, explain your rights, and help you take the steps to get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Common Causes of Santa Cruz Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can have numerous causes. Motorcyclists are vulnerable to hazards that most vehicles pay little attention to. Some of the most common causes of Santa Cruz motorcycle accidents include:
- Road hazards such as potholes, debris, and slick pavements can quickly cause a motorcycle crash.
- Speeding is the cause of many motorcycle accidents. About one-third of all motorcycle fatalities are caused by speeding.
- Drunk or drugged driving by either the cyclists or another driver can quickly cause a serious crash.
- Left turn accidents are one of the most dangerous causes of motorcycle accidents. More than 40% of all motorcycle crashes are caused by a vehicle making an illegal left turn in front of the rider.
- Head-on collisions are especially dangerous in motorcycle accidents. About half of all motorcycle fatalities involve head-on collisions.
- Lane-splitting accidents may be legal in many areas, but they can lead to serious accidents. Drivers can be distracted when changing lanes and crash into motorcycles.
- The motorcyclist’s or other drivers’ inexperience can cause serious accidents.
These are just some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Santa Cruz. You need an experienced Santa Cruz motorcycle accident attorney to investigate your accident, determine causes, and identify potentially liable parties.
Common Motorcycle Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, from minor scrapes to life-threatening trauma. Here are the most common injuries sustained in motorcycle crashes:
- Road rash
- Spinal cord injury
- Head injury
- Broken bones
- Neck injuries
- Internal injuries
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
The statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident claim in California is two years. You generally have two years from the date of your accident to file a suit.
However, there are exceptions to the two-year deadline. You must consult an experienced Santa Cruz motorcycle accident attorney to determine your deadline.
Santa Cruz Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Motorcycle accidents remain a significant concern in Santa Cruz and Santa Cruz County. In 2021, Santa Cruz city reported 14 motorcycle-related victims killed and injured, ranking 23rd out of 105 similarly sized cities for motorcycle accidents. The city’s overall composite ranking for traffic safety was 74th out of 105 cities.
Recent incidents highlight the ongoing risk. On December 18, 2024, a fatal motorcycle crash occurred on Soquel San Jose Road in the Santa Cruz mountains, claiming the life of a 68-year-old man from Los Gatos. This tragic event underscores the dangers motorcyclists face on winding mountain roads.
On a broader scale, California witnessed 13,381 injury and fatality motorcycle crashes in 2021, according to the California Highway Patrol’s SWITRS data. In 2020, 539 motorcyclists lost their lives in California accidents.
Schedule a Free Case Evaluation
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need the help of an aggressive, experienced Santa Cruz motorcycle accident attorney. You need Jacoby & Meyers to investigate your accident, determine its causes, identify potentially liable parties, and build your strongest case.
Our motorcycle accident attorneys know how to recover maximum compensation for our clients. We have over 50 years of experience winning big for motorcycle accident victims, and we want to do the same for you.
Call us today at 888-966-7991 or visit our contact page to schedule a free case evaluation. We look forward to meeting you and helping you get the compensation you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Cases
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are no upfront costs. We only get paid when we win your case. Our fee is typically a percentage of your settlement or court award. We also offer free consultations.
What Expenses Should I Expect During My Case?
While we advance all case-related costs, these may include medical record fees, expert witness fees, court filing fees, and investigation expenses. These costs are typically deducted from your settlement.
How Long Will My Case Take to Settle?
Most motorcycle accident cases settle within 6-12 months, though complex cases may take longer. Factors affecting timeline include injury severity, insurance company cooperation, and whether the case goes to trial.
What Are the Filing Deadlines?
California has a two-year statute of limitations for motorcycle accident claims. However, claims against government entities must be filed within six months.
Should I Talk to Insurance Companies?
No. Direct all insurance company communications through your attorney. Early statements can harm your case. We handle all insurance negotiations to protect your interests.
What If I’m Partially at Fault?
California follows comparative negligence rules. You can still recover damages even if partially at fault, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What Records Do I Need?
Essential documents include:
- Police accident report
- Medical records and bills
- Proof of lost wages
- Photos of injuries and accident scene
- Insurance communications
- Motorcycle repair estimates
How Is My Case Worth Determined?
Case value depends on factors including:
- Severity of injuries
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Future medical needs
- Impact on quality of life
Do I Really Need an Attorney?
Motorcycle accident cases involve complex legal and insurance issues. An experienced attorney can:
- Protect your rights
- Handle insurance negotiations
- Gather crucial evidence
- Calculate full damages
- Navigate legal complexities
- Maximize your compensation
What Are My Responsibilities During the Case?
Your main responsibilities include:
- Following medical treatment plans
- Keeping records of expenses
- Attending scheduled appointments
- Staying in communication with your attorney
- Being honest about all case details
Areas We Serve
Santa Cruz County
- Santa Cruz, Capitola, Aptos, Soquel, Scotts Valley, Watsonville, Davenport, and communities throughout San Lorenzo Valley
Call or text 888-522-6291 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form