Maison Law helps people when they’re injured in a motorcycle accident on one of California’s most popular routes, including those on Highway 120 East. This route has a bit of everything: beautiful scenery, great weather and near ideal conditions for riding. But it also has risks of accidents, so you need to know what you should do if you’re in one. Our team can guide you through the process. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident on Highway 120 East?
Riding a motorcycle along Highway 120 East is incredibly popular, taking you through the Central Valley, through Yosemite National Park all the way to the Nevada border. But this also presents problems in the event of an accident. If you find yourself in a crash, taking the right steps can make all the difference in protecting your health and any potential injury claim. Here’s what you should do:
- Call 911 – As with any accident, the first thing you should do is move out of the way of other traffic and call 911. This will get EMTs on the scene as soon as possible, and they can provide emergency medical care.
- Report the accident – Report the accident to the California Highway Patrol (CHP)–they handle most accidents on this stretch. Officers will document the scene, which will have important information for an insurance claim.
- Exchange information with others – Get names, contact info, and insurance details from other drivers. If there are witnesses (especially truckers or travelers), ask for their contact information–they may have dashcam footage.
- Document the scene yourself – Take photos and videos of vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, and any visible injuries. If the accident happened due to loose gravel, potholes, or wildlife, document that as well–it could impact liability.
- Save your records – Hold onto medical bills, repair estimates, and receipts for towing, lodging, or alternative transportation if your bike is undrivable. Don’t repair your motorcycle until insurance adjusters have inspected it.
- Be careful with statements – Don’t admit fault—even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you. Stick to basic facts when speaking with police or insurance companies.
No matter what the circumstances are, the aftermath of a motorcycle accident on Highway 120 East can be overwhelming. This is only increased if you’re dealing with injuries. That’s what makes these steps so important–they form the foundation of your claim.
What Claims Options Do You Have After an Accident on Highway 120 East?
For as unique as an accident is on Highway 120 East, the actual claims process that’s in place is pretty uniform. Basically, your ability to recover financial support for your injuries and losses depends on two key factors: liability and damages. To prove that someone else is responsible for your accident, you must show:
- Duty of care – The other party had a responsibility to drive safely.
- Negligence – They acted recklessly, such as by speeding, distracted driving, or crossing the centerline.
- Causation – Their actions directly caused your accident and injuries.
- Damages – You suffered financial losses, like medical bills or lost wages, as a result.
While this gives you the legal parameters of liability, it’s all going to come down to what actually happened in reality. Most of the time, liability for a motorcycle accident on Highway 120 East is going to fall on:
- Other drivers who hit you.
- Another motorcyclist that was riding recklessly.
- The motorcycle or parts manufacturer if a defective part contributed to the crash.
- Caltrans or a county agency if poor road maintenance (e.g., potholes, debris, or missing signs) played a role.
With liability established, you can move on to actually filing your claim. There, you generally have two options:
- Filing an insurance claim – This is a quicker option, but insurance companies prioritize their bottom line and will usually try to offer you less than what you need.
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit – A lawsuit is a more formal (and longer) process, but it often results in higher damages, including:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Motorcycle and gear repair/replacement
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Reduced quality of life
- Funeral costs (in fatal accidents)
In California, you have two years from the accident date to file a claim. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to get damages at all.
How Will Maison Law Help You After a Motorcycle Accident on Highway 120 East?
Highway 120 East is one of the most popular motorcycle routes for numerous reasons, but no matter how experienced or prepared you are, you could face an accident. If your injuries are minor, you might be able handle the claim yourself. But if you have serious injuries, large medical bills, or trouble dealing with insurance companies, legal help can make a big difference. That’s where our team of motorcycle accident lawyers at Maison Law can step in. With our experience and resources, we can:
- Explain your rights and options
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- File a lawsuit if necessary
Handling a claim alone can be overwhelming, especially after a serious accident. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident on Highway 120 East, contact us for a free consultation to talk about your options.
