What happens if the other driver's insurance company calls me first after a Long Beach motorcycle crash?
If the other driver's insurance company contacts you first after a Long Beach motorcycle accident, remember they represent the driver who hit you, not your interests. Their goal is to settle your claim for the least money possible, often by trying to get you to say something that minimizes your injuries or accepts fault. You are not required to speak with them directly or give a recorded statement.
Anything you say could be used against you later, even if you believe you are just being polite or helpful. Direct all communication through your own attorney; a lawyer can protect your rights and handle these discussions for you.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Long Beach?
For most personal injury claims in Long Beach, you have two years from the date of the crash to file a lawsuit in court (California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1). This deadline applies to motorcycle accidents involving private individuals or companies. If a public entity, such as the City of Long Beach or a county agency, was involved in your crash, you must present a written claim to that entity within six months of the incident (California Government Code § 911.2).
Missing these deadlines means you generally lose your right to pursue compensation, so acting quickly is important. The deadline is usually paused while an injured person is a minor under California Code of Civil Procedure § 352, but that pause does not apply to claims against public entities.
What kinds of motorcycle accident cases does Casa Legal Los Angeles handle?
Our firm helps people injured in all types of motorcycle accidents across Long Beach and surrounding communities. This includes crashes caused by distracted drivers, unsafe lane changes, drivers failing to yield right-of-way, or impaired driving. We also represent riders hit by drivers operating commercial vehicles or rideshare vehicles in Long Beach.
If you were injured in a collision while riding your motorcycle, we work to identify all responsible parties and pursue the full compensation available under California law for your medical costs, lost earnings, and non-economic harm. We have helped riders recover from crashes in Agoura Hills, Pomona, and across the county.
Where is a Long Beach motorcycle accident claim filed?
A personal injury case arising from a Long Beach motorcycle accident is generally filed in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. Under Local Rule 2.3 and a General Order effective May 17, 2024, these cases are assigned to the judicial district where the incident occurred and handled by that district's Personal Injury Hub department.
For Long Beach, this means your claim would typically be filed at the Governor George Deukmejian Courthouse, located at 275 Magnolia Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802. If your case is against a public entity like the City of Long Beach, a specific claim process must be followed before a lawsuit can be filed.
What steps should I take after a motorcycle accident in Long Beach?
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Seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, get checked by a doctor. Some serious injuries, like a traumatic brain injury, might not show symptoms right away.
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Report the accident. Call 911 to ensure a police report is made. This report documents the scene and helps establish fault.
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Gather evidence at the scene. If you can, take photos of the vehicles, the accident scene, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Get contact and insurance information from everyone involved and from any witnesses. If your crash involved a rideshare vehicle, like those for Uber or Lyft, different insurance policies apply; an attorney who handles Long Beach rideshare accidents can explain the coverage.
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Avoid discussing fault. Do not admit fault or make statements about the accident to anyone except the police and your attorney.
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Contact a personal injury attorney. A lawyer can explain your rights, manage communications with insurance companies, and help you understand your options. Speaking with a lawyer soon after your crash can make a real difference in your case.
What does working with Casa Legal Los Angeles involve?
Working with Casa Legal Los Angeles means we handle the legal complexities of your motorcycle accident claim so you can focus on your recovery. Our firm concentrates on personal injury law, advocating for victims of serious accidents. We investigate your crash, gather evidence, consult with experts, and calculate the full extent of your damages.
We negotiate with insurance companies, working to reach a fair settlement that covers your losses. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our commitment is to provide dedicated representation, pursuing your case with diligence and personalized attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What compensation can I recover after a Long Beach motorcycle accident?
After a Long Beach motorcycle accident, you may recover economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover specific financial losses like medical bills, lost wages, and property damage to your motorcycle. Non-economic damages compensate for subjective losses like pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Do I still have a case if I wasn't wearing a helmet in my Long Beach motorcycle crash?
California law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets (California Vehicle Code § 27803). If you were not wearing a helmet, the other side's attorney may argue that your injuries were made worse because of this. California follows pure comparative negligence, meaning your compensation could be reduced by your share of fault, including not wearing a helmet. However, not wearing a helmet does not automatically prevent you from seeking compensation for injuries that would have occurred regardless, such as a broken leg.
What if the driver who hit me in Long Beach was uninsured?
If the driver who caused your Long Beach motorcycle accident was uninsured, your options depend on your own insurance policy. If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, your policy might cover your damages up to your policy limits. California law bars non-economic damages for uninsured vehicle owners involved in an accident (California Civil Code § 3333.4), but this does not apply if you were a passenger, or if the at-fault driver was convicted of DUI.
Will my motorcycle accident case go to trial in Los Angeles County?
Many motorcycle accident cases in Los Angeles County settle before going to trial. This happens through negotiations with insurance companies or mediation. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, and if it is in your best interest, we are prepared to file a lawsuit and present your case at trial in the Governor George Deukmejian Courthouse in Long Beach.
If you or a loved one were hurt in a Long Beach motorcycle accident, contact Casa Legal Los Angeles at 888-585-2529 for a conversation about your options. No attorney's fees or case costs unless we win.