How to Handle a Defective Motorcycle Equipment Accident in California

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If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is easy to assume that another motorist acted negligently and is to blame for the crash. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes, other parties that were not even present at the accident scene are to blame for a crash. For example, manufacturers can be held liable for defective motorcycle equipment when it causes a collision.

These cases can be very challenging to prove, however, so it is important to contact an experienced Riverside motorcycle accident attorney who can provide the legal advice you need.

Common Defective Motorcycle Equipment

Generally speaking, some of the most common defective motorcycle equipment include:

  • Wheels and Tires: Defective wheels and tires can result in a bike being more unstable and cause a rider to skid or swerve, resulting in an accident.
  • Brakes: When brakes are defective, they can fail, leading to a biker being unable to stop and causing a deadly crash.
  • Frame: When the frame of a motorcycle is defective, it can crack and cause elements of the bike to rust as well as other types of damage. Small cracks in the frame of a bike can result in structural failure which can also cause a collision.
  • Handlebars: The handlebars of a bike are critical for steering and ensuring a motorcycle stays on the right path. Defective handlebars can interfere with steering and also result in an unstable bike.
  • Fuel Tank: Manufacturing defects in the fuel tank of a motorcycle can result in dangerous gas leaks, which cause a fire. These defects are often not detected until a fire starts.

Although there are inherent risks associated with riding a motorcycle, the above defects can make operating a bike far more dangerous.

Common Injuries Caused by Defective Motorcycle Equipment

Defective motorcycle equipment causes a number of different injuries. The most common of these are as follows:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries
  • Spinal Cord Injuries
  • Broken Bones
  • Crushed Bones
  • Amputations
  • Torn Ligaments

It is not always possible to prevent serious motorcycle accidents that result in the above injuries.

Still, all bikers should wear a helmet, as outlined under state law, as well as other safety gear that can protect them in the event of a crash. Routine motorcycle maintenance can also detect problems and ensure that motorcycles operate safely. It is also important to check for manufacturer recalls, which can be found on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website.

How to Prove Defective Motorcycle Equipment Caused an Accident

In California, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers can be held strictly liable if a product is defective and causes an injury when it is being used in a reasonably foreseeable manner. This means that if defective motorcycle equipment caused your accident, you do not have to prove the manufacturer, distributor, or retailer was negligent. Instead, you must only show that the bike or motorcycle part was defective and that it caused your injuries.

Still, when filing a motorcycle accident claim, you must prove that defective motorcycle equipment caused your injuries. Proving that a manufacturer or other entity is liable requires strong evidence.

As soon as you realize motorcycle equipment is defective, you should take a picture or video footage of it. Using a device that will timestamp the photo is ideal, as this can prove that you noticed the defect as early as possible.

Next, it is important to document the events that led to the malfunction in the motorcycle. For example, if you approached a red light and the brakes on your motorcycle suddenly stopped working, you should tell the police this when they visit the scene of the crash. This will document the event, helping you prove your case.

If you contact the manufacturer or distributor liable for the defect, you should also record when you spoke to them, the name of any person you spoke with, and the context of what was said. For instance, if the manufacturer told you to take the bike to a mechanic and have the defect repaired, it is important to note the recommendation.

If you purchased a defective motorcycle or part, you should also always keep the receipts for them. This can prove when you made the purchase, and also the date of the defect. This can also prove that the equipment was not damaged by regular wear and tear.

Lastly, you should always seek medical attention for injuries caused by motorcycle defects. This can document the nature and severity of your injuries. Also keep any invoices or receipts for any medical treatment you receive, as this can help prove the costs you have paid to treat them.

Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in California Can Prove Product Defects

If defective motorcycle equipment caused your injuries, you can file a compensation claim. These cases, though, are very hard to prove.

At The JLF Firm, our Riverside motorcycle accident lawyers know how to prove your case so you obtain the full and fair damages to which you are entitled.

Contact us to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced attorneys and to get the sound legal advice you need.

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