Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately all too common on San Francisco’s busy streets, and they can often lead to serious injuries or even fatalities. As a motorcycle rider, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and dangers associated with riding in the city. Throughout San Francisco, there are many different conditions and factors that can lead to an accident. Whether it be our densely populated areas or sudden changes in the weather, virtually anything can result in a motorcycle accident.
To that end, the City of San Francisco has commissioned numerous studies and surveys to compile data on motorcycle accidents. The purpose of these studies is to track the various causes and conditions that lead to accidents so that the public can be more well-informed about these factors to better protect both themselves and those motorcyclists that they share the road with.
MJQ Law Can Help You If You’ve Been in a San Francisco Motorcycle Accident
Because motorcyclists are so vulnerable to injuries and accidents in the city, it’s vital to work with our team of experienced San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyers at The Law Offices of Matthew J. Quinlan. Our team can investigate the accident, negotiate with insurance companies, and build a strong case on your behalf to protect your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, contact us today for a free consultation.
San Francisco Motorcycle Accident Study
Of the many studies regarding motorcycle accidents in San Francisco, one of the most comprehensive and significant is one conducted by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) in 2019.
This study found the following regarding motorcycles in the city:
- 524 motorcycle accidents
- 400 injuries
- 4 fatalities
The study further identified several common causes of motorcycle accidents in the city, including:
- Unsafe speed
- Failure to yield
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
In order to combat the issue of motorcycle accidents, the SFMTA has implemented several programs aimed at reducing the number of motorcycle accidents in the city. One of the most notable initiatives is the Vision Zero program, which aims to eliminate traffic fatalities and severe injuries in San Francisco by 2024. Originally started in 2014, the program has taken several steps to reduce the number of motorcycle and bicycle accidents throughout the city. These steps include:
- Installing protected bike lanes
- Implementing speed safety cameras
- Increasing enforcement against dangerous driving behaviors
Additionally, SFMTA offers free motorcycle safety courses through the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) to help riders develop safe riding skills and techniques. These courses are designed to help riders identify and avoid common causes of accidents and to educate them on what they can do to reduce the likelihood of being in an accident.
Are There Ways To Reduce the Risk of a Motorcycle Accident in San Francisco?
Generally speaking, totally preventing a motorcycle accident in San Francisco is never possible due to the fact that an accident is very often unexpected. Further, as a motorcycle rider, you can only account for your actions. And because most motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence or inattentiveness of other drivers, there’s not much that can be done to prevent them. At the same time, though, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of a motorcycle accident, such as:
- Wearing appropriate equipment and clothing
- Following traffic rules
- Staying visible
- Staying alert
- Taking a motorcycle safety course
While there’s no way to totally prevent a motorcycle accident in San Francisco, taking these steps can at least reduce the possibility that you’ll be in one of these unfortunate incidents. At the same time, if you are in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to realize that you have legal options to take care of your injuries, bills, and other damages that frequently result from them.
Filing a San Francisco Motorcycle Accident Claim
If the study from the SFMTA proves anything, it’s that motorcycle accidents are a common occurrence in the city. What this means, at least in terms of you riding your motorcycle, is that you need to be prepared for the outcome of an accident. Most frequently, this means injuries and damages that you’ll need to recover from. Every motorcycle accident is different, but there are some more common injuries that occur, like:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Bone fractures
- Spinal injuries
- Contusions, cuts, scrapes, and burns
- Joint injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Amputation of limbs
- Paralysis
- Death
Of your options to recover compensation for your damages, you can both file an insurance claim or lawsuit. In both cases, you’ll likely be dealing with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. In these claims, you can potentially recover the following damages:
- Medical bills and costs
- Costs of treatment and therapy
- Lost wages
- Mental anguish
- Emotional distress
Another important aspect of a claim is that you have to file it within a certain timeframe, known as the statute of limitations. In California, the statute of limitations for a motorcycle accident claim is two years from the date of your accident. If you don’t file a claim within this timeframe, you likely will miss out on the opportunity to recover damages for your injuries, even if the other driver is clearly liable.
Dedicated San Francisco Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
At The Law Offices of Matthew J. Quinlan, we have the skill and experience necessary to help you navigate the complex process of a motorcycle accident. Our team of dedicated San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyers will provide you with legal guidance and emotional support throughout the claims process. If you or a loved one have been in a motorcycle accident in San Francisco, don’t hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation.
