DUI Motorcycle Accident Victims’ Attorneys

Motorcycle DUI accidents in Los Angeles can have devastating consequences, leading to severe injuries and even loss of life. These accidents occur when a motorcyclist is involved in a collision with a driver who is operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Being a victim of a DUI motorcycle accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience, leaving you with physical, emotional, and financial burdens.

In Los Angeles, as in many other jurisdictions, driving under the influence is a serious offense that is both illegal and highly dangerous. Despite the strict laws and enforcement efforts in place, DUI accidents still occur far too frequently, putting innocent motorcyclists at risk.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a DUI motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, it is crucial to seek legal representation to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve. An experienced personal injury attorney can navigate the complexities of the legal system, gather evidence to establish fault and liability, and advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair and just compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Motorcyclists Have an Increased Risk of Severe Injury During DUIs

Motorcyclists face an increased risk of severe injury during DUI (Driving Under the Influence) incidents in Los Angeles and elsewhere. DUI accidents involving motorcycles can have devastating consequences due to the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road. When a motorist operates a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, their impaired judgment, slowed reaction time, and decreased coordination pose a significant danger to themselves and others, especially motorcyclists.

Motorcyclists lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle, making them more exposed and susceptible to injury. In the event of a collision, the lack of structural barriers leaves riders directly vulnerable to impact forces. Additionally, motorcycles offer less stability and maneuverability compared to four-wheeled vehicles, increasing the likelihood of accidents and the severity of resulting injuries.

The combination of alcohol or drug impairment and the inherent risks of riding a motorcycle creates a dangerous situation on the road. Motorcyclists involved in DUI accidents often suffer from severe injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and road rash. These injuries can have long-lasting physical, emotional, and financial consequences, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lifestyle adjustments.

Proving the negligence of an impaired driver in a DUI motorcycle accident can be crucial for seeking compensation and holding them accountable. This requires gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test results, and any other relevant documentation that supports your claim.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle DUI accident in Los Angeles, it is essential to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can assess your case, protect your rights, and guide you through the legal process.

Drunk Drivers are Civilly Liable for Causing a Motorcycle Accident in LA

In Los Angeles and throughout California, drunk drivers are civilly liable for causing a motorcycle accident. The state’s laws recognize the severe dangers and risks associated with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Therefore, if a motorcyclist is injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, they have legal recourse to pursue compensation for their injuries and damages.

Under California law, it is illegal to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. This legal limit is even lower for commercial drivers and individuals under the age of 21. If a motorist is found to be driving under the influence and causing an accident, they can be held civilly liable for their actions.

To establish civil liability in a motorcycle accident case involving a drunk driver, several key elements must be proven:

• Duty of care: The drunk driver had a duty to operate their vehicle safely and responsibly, which includes not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Breach of duty: The drunk driver breached their duty of care by operating their vehicle with a BAC above the legal limit.
• Causation: The drunk driver’s impaired state was a direct cause of the motorcycle accident and resulting injuries.
• Damages: The motorcyclist suffered injuries and incurred damages as a result of the accident caused by the drunk driver.

By demonstrating these elements, the injured motorcyclist can seek compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and other related damages.

In cases involving drunk driving, punitive damages may also be sought. Punitive damages are intended to punish the defendant for their reckless behavior and deter similar conduct in the future. These damages are awarded in addition to compensatory damages and can significantly increase the total compensation received by the injured party.

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident caused by a drunk driver in Los Angeles, it is crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue a fair settlement or litigate your case if necessary.

Helpful Evidence of a DUI Motorcycle Accident

When building a case for a DUI motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, gathering relevant evidence is crucial to establish liability and seek appropriate compensation. Here are four types of evidence that can be helpful in such cases:

• Police reports: Obtain a copy of the police report filed at the scene of the accident. This report typically includes important details such as the officer’s observations, statements from involved parties and witnesses, field sobriety test results, and any citations or arrests made. The police report serves as an official record of the incident and can provide valuable information regarding the drunk driver’s impairment and their role in causing the accident.
• Breath or blood alcohol test results: If the drunk driver was tested for their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the scene or at a medical facility, obtain a copy of the test results. This evidence can establish the level of intoxication and support the claim of driving under the influence. Breathalyzer or blood test results showing a BAC above the legal limit strengthen the case against the drunk driver.
• Witness statements: Collect statements from witnesses who saw the accident occur. Eyewitness testimony can provide critical details about the sequence of events, the behavior of the drunk driver, and the impact of their impaired state on the accident. Witness statements can help corroborate your version of events and strengthen your case.
• Photographs and videos: Document the accident scene by taking photographs and videos of the damaged vehicles, skid marks, road conditions, and any other relevant factors. These visual records can help reconstruct the accident and provide visual evidence of the aftermath. If there were open containers of alcohol or drug paraphernalia found in the drunk driver’s vehicle, photograph or record them as well, as they may further demonstrate the driver’s impairment.
• Photos of your injury: Take photographs of your injuries as soon as possible after the accident. These photos can provide visual documentation of the extent and nature of your injuries, which can be useful for establishing the severity of the harm caused by the accident. Make sure to capture clear images from different angles and document any visible wounds, bruises, or other physical damage.
• Photos of the accident: Take photos of the accident scene, including the position of the vehicles involved, skid marks, debris, and any other relevant factors. These photos can help reconstruct the accident and provide visual evidence of how the collision occurred. Additionally, if there are any road hazards or defects that may have contributed to the accident, document them as well.
• Photos of damage to your property: Take photos of the damage to your motorcycle and any other property involved in the accident. This includes capturing images of dented or scratched parts, broken components, and any other visible damage. These photos can demonstrate the impact of the collision and help assess the value of property damage for compensation purposes.
• Receipts: Keep track of and retain receipts for expenses related to your accident, such as medical bills, prescription medications, rehabilitation costs, transportation expenses, and property repair or replacement costs. These receipts can serve as evidence of the financial losses you have incurred as a result of the accident and support your claim for compensation.

It’s important to note that the collection of evidence should be done as soon as possible after the accident, as valuable evidence may be lost or destroyed over time. 

How Can We Help at the Pacific Attorney Group

At the Pacific Attorney Group, we understand the challenges and complexities you may face after a DUI motorcycle accident in Los Angeles. We are dedicated to providing professional legal representation and support to help you navigate through the legal process and seek the compensation you deserve. Here’s how we can assist you:

• Experienced attorneys: Our team of skilled and experienced personal injury attorneys specialize in motorcycle accidents, including those involving DUI. We have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations in Los Angeles and are well-versed in handling cases related to drunk driving accidents. With our expertise, we can build a strong case on your behalf, advocating for your rights and best interests.
• Thorough investigation: We will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and other relevant documentation. We will also work with accident reconstruction experts, if necessary, to establish liability and demonstrate the extent of your injuries and damages.
• Legal guidance and representation: Our attorneys will provide you with personalized legal guidance throughout the entire process. We will explain your rights, assess the value of your case, and advise you on the best course of action. We will handle all communication and negotiation with insurance companies on your behalf, aiming to secure a fair settlement that covers your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• Trial readiness: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, our experienced trial lawyers are prepared to take your case to court. We will aggressively advocate for your rights before a judge and jury, presenting a compelling argument to support your claim for compensation.
• Emotional support: We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a DUI motorcycle accident can be emotionally challenging. Our team is committed to providing compassionate support, addressing your concerns, and guiding you through the legal process with empathy and understanding.

By choosing the Pacific Attorney Group, you can trust that we will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation available to you. We work on a contingency fee basis. You don’t pay any upfront fees, and you only have to pay after we successfully recover compensation for you. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you on your journey toward justice and recovery.