Maison Law helps people that have been injured in motorcycle accidents on California’s most popular routes. An accident can happen to you anytime you ride your motorcycle, whether that’s on a route like Angeles Crest Highway or in your own neighborhood. The question then becomes, what should you do? Our team at Maison Law can answer these questions and help you from there. Contact us for a free consultation.
What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident on the Angeles Crest Highway?
When you head out for a ride on the Angeles Crest Highway, you’re likely expecting scenic views and open roads–not an accident. But with steep cliffs, sharp turns, and unpredictable weather, crashes can happen even to the most experienced riders. If you’re involved in an accident, here’s what you should do:
- Call 911 ASAP – If you can, move to a safe spot and call 911 for emergency help. Paramedics can assess your injuries and take you to a hospital if needed.
- Get a police response – Ask the dispatcher to send the California Highway Patrol (CHP) or local police. Officers will secure the scene, direct traffic, and get information that can help your claim.
- Exchange important information with others involved – Get the contact and insurance details of other drivers involved. If there are witnesses, collect their names and phone numbers.
- Don’t admit fault – Avoid admitting fault or giving detailed statements to police or insurance adjusters. Stick to the facts and don’t say anything that could be used against you. Also, don’t post about the accident on your social media.
- Gather any evidence you can – Use your phone to document the crash scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs. This can be key in proving fault.
- Save everything you get – Keep all medical bills, repair estimates, and receipts related to the accident. Don’t repair your motorcycle until the damage has been properly documented.
Because of the remote and winding nature of Angeles Crest Highway, handling everything alone can be difficult-especially if you’re seriously injured. But this does give you legal options.
What Legal Options Do You Have When You’re Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident on Angeles Crest Highway?
After a motorcycle accident on the Angeles Crest Highway, you have legal options–namely the ability to file an injury claim. When you decide to do this, the claims process comes down to two key things: liability and damages. To get damages, you need to prove that someone else’s negligence caused the accident. This means showing that:
- The other party had a duty to drive safely.
- They acted negligently, such as speeding or not paying attention.
- Their actions caused your accident and injuries.
- You suffered losses like medical bills or lost income because of the accident.
Liability depends on the specifics of your crash. It could fall on another driver, another motorcyclist, a motorcycle manufacturer, or even the state or county if road conditions played a role. Once liability is fairly clear, you can file an injury claim in one of two ways:
- Insurance claim – This is a quicker process, but insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, which means their offer probably won’t cover all your needs.
- Lawsuit – This takes longer but can lead to higher damages since a court oversees the case.
Importantly, your damages are going to be specific to the facts of your case. Generally, though, it usually includes things like:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Repair/replacement costs for your bike or gear
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
- Funeral or burial expenses (in fatal accidents)
In California, you have two years from the accident date to file a claim. Missing this deadline means losing your right to recover these all-important damages.
Contact Maison Law After a Motorcycle Accident on the Angeles Crest Highway
Motorcycle accidents on Angeles Crest Highway are especially dangerous due to steep cliffs, winding roads, and unpredictable weather. No matter what ultimately causes your accident, though, you have legal options. But getting legal help is usually only necessary if you’re seriously hurt or your situation is more complicated. In either context, having legal support can make all the difference. That’s where our experienced California motorcycle accident lawyers at Maison Law come in. We can:
- Explain your rights and legal options
- Investigate the accident and determine fault
- Gather evidence to strengthen your claim
- Deal with insurance companies for a fair settlement
- File a lawsuit if needed
We handle the legal side so you can focus on healing. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident on the Angeles Crest Highway, contact us today for a free consultation.
