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Motorcycle Accident Legal Guide for Cayucos, CA

Motorcycle riders in Cayucos face unique challenges after a crash, from busy coastal traffic to unpredictable road conditions. When injuries occur, navigating medical bills, insurance claims, and legal responsibilities can feel overwhelming. This guide is designed to help residents of Cayucos and the broader San Luis Obispo County understand how a motorcycle accident case is approached, what options may be available, and how a local attorney can assist throughout the process. By focusing on clear communication, thorough investigation, and fair compensation, we aim to provide practical guidance grounded in California law and the realities of being on the road along the coast.

From the moment a crash occurs, collecting evidence and preserving rights can influence the outcome of a claim. Our team prioritizes safety, compassion, and accountability, helping Cayucos residents document injuries, medical treatment, time away from work, and property damage. We explain each step in plain language and coordinate with medical professionals so you can focus on recovery. While insurance companies may present fast settlements, we help you evaluate the true value of a case and pursue options that reflect the real impact of the accident on your life and future.

Importance and Benefits of This Legal Service

Having skilled representation after a motorcycle crash improves the likelihood of obtaining appropriate medical care, timely investigations, and just compensation. A seasoned attorney can negotiate with insurers, coordinate evidence from accident reports, medical records, and repair estimates, and identify responsible parties beyond the at fault driver. In Cayucos, where traffic patterns and local regulations shape outcomes, dedicated legal counsel provides continuity, reduces stress, and helps ensure that victims are not rushed into unfavorable settlements. The goal is to secure accountability while supporting long-term recovery.

Overview of the Firm and Attorneys' Experience

Law Republic APC brings years of experience handling personal injury matters, with a focus on motorcycle collisions in California coastal communities. The firm emphasizes thorough investigation, clear client communication, and strong advocacy. Our attorneys work to understand how a Cayucos crash impacts daily life, from medical costs to missing work, and they tailor strategies to fit each situation. Clients benefit from a collaborative approach, access to diverse resources, and a commitment to pursuing fair outcomes. We aim to guide you with steady judgment and practical planning through every stage.

Understanding This Legal Service

Motorcycle accident legal services cover initial assessment, evidence gathering, medical coordination, and claim resolution. The process begins with an intake conversation to identify injuries, timelines, and financial impacts. A thorough review of police reports, witness statements, and insurance communications helps determine liability and recovery options. The service also involves communicating clearly about potential settlement or litigation pathways, explaining what to expect at each phase, and setting realistic timelines. The goal is to empower Cayucos residents with knowledge and confidence as they pursue accountability and compensation for harms suffered.

Throughout the case, clients receive ongoing updates, guidance on medical care choices, and assistance with documentation such as medical records and employment records. Local practice in Cayucos means understanding California’s comparative fault rules and the steps to preserve rights before the statute of limitations. The attorney coordinates with investigators and experts as needed, negotiates with insurance adjusters, and prepares for trial if required. By staying engaged and transparent, the service helps clients stay focused on healing while pursuing a secure financial recovery.

Definition and Explanation

Motorcycle accident legal service refers to professional guidance provided to individuals who have been injured while riding or as a passenger in a motorcycle collision. It encompasses legal rights, responsibilities, and strategies to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The service clarifies liability, insurance options, and potential legal actions within California. It emphasizes careful documentation, timely communication, and ethical representation aimed at protecting the rider’s interests while navigating the complexities of the civil claim process.

Key Elements and Processes

Key elements of a motorcycle accident case include evidence collection, medical documentation, liability assessment, and damage evaluation. Process steps typically involve initial consultation, case review, demand to insurance, negotiation, and, if necessary, filing a civil claim and pursuing a trial. Attorneys coordinate with investigators, medical professionals, and experts to establish fault, causation, and the extent of losses. The Cayucos environment often requires local knowledge about traffic patterns, road design, and seasonal factors. Maintaining organized records and timely action helps ensure that the client’s rights are protected throughout the legal journey.

Key Terms and Glossary

Glossary entries provide clear definitions of common terms used in motorcycle accident claims. Understanding terms such as liability, negligence, damages, and statute of limitations helps Cayucos residents engage more effectively with their attorney and insurers. The explanations aim to reduce legal jargon and support informed decisions about settlement options, medical care, and timing. By learning the core concepts, clients can participate actively in the strategy, ask informed questions, and track progress as the claim evolves through investigation, negotiation, and potential litigation within California law.

Liability

Liability refers to legal responsibility for harm caused by an accident. In motorcycle crashes, determining liability involves evaluating fault among drivers, riders, maintenance providers, and other parties whose actions contributed to the collision. California follows a comparative fault standard, meaning recovery may be reduced in proportion to the degree of fault assigned to the injured party. Establishing liability requires reviewing traffic signals, witness statements, accident reports, and expert analysis of factors such as speed, following distance, and visibility. A clear demonstration of fault supports pursuing compensable damages.

Damages

Damages are the financial and non financial losses resulting from a motorcycle accident. This can include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, property repairs, and compensation for pain and suffering. The goal of pursuing damages is to restore the injured party to the position they were in before the crash as much as possible. California law recognizes both economic and noneconomic losses, and a skilled attorney helps quantify these items through medical reports, wage documentation, and expert review. Proper documentation strengthens a claim and supports fair settlements.

Negligence

Negligence is the failure to exercise reasonable care under the circumstances, which leads to harm to another person. In motorcycle incidents, common negligence includes distracted driving, speeding, failure to yield, and unsafe lane changes. Proving negligence involves showing that the at fault party owed a duty of care, breached that duty, and caused injuries as a direct result. California uses comparative fault, so plaintiffs may share responsibility. Gathering evidence from police reports, surveillance, and eyewitness accounts helps establish the degree of fault and supports an accurate damages calculation.

Settlement

A settlement is an agreement between the injured party and the insurer or defendant to resolve a claim without trial. Settlements provide speed and certainty, but they require careful evaluation to ensure medical needs and future losses are fully addressed. A skilled attorney negotiates terms, discusses settlement offers in detail, and may pursue structured payments or ongoing medical coverage if appropriate. In California, settlements should be memorialized in writing and may require approval by a court depending on the case. The goal is a fair, comprehensive resolution that supports recovery.

Comparison of Legal Options

After a motorcycle crash, several paths may be available, including pursuing an insurance settlement, filing a personal injury claim, or seeking a civil lawsuit. Each option carries different timelines, costs, and chances of recovery. Insurance settlements can be faster but may undervalue losses. A formal claim may yield more compensation but requires careful documentation and negotiation. Litigation is a longer process with the potential for court decisions. In Cayucos, understanding local resources and California law helps the injured party choose a path that aligns with medical needs and financial goals.

When a Limited Approach is Sufficient:

Reason 1

A limited approach may be appropriate when injuries are minor and losses are straightforward. In such cases a concise negotiation with the insurer can secure a reasonable settlement without the need for lengthy litigation. The attorney helps gather essential medical records, property damage estimates, and wage information to support a quick resolution. Even with a limited path, accurate documentation remains important to avoid disputes about causation or future costs. Clients benefit from a clear plan, predictable timelines, and a focus on returning to daily routines.

Reason 2

Another scenario for a limited approach arises when liability is clear and injuries are fully documented, allowing a straightforward settlement. The process centers on a disciplined negotiation with the insurer, leveraging medical evidence and damage estimates. The aim is to achieve a fair outcome while minimizing the stress of prolonged legal proceedings. Even in these cases, the client remains informed about offers, timelines, and any necessary follow up to secure full compensation for medical care and related losses.

Why Comprehensive Legal Service is Needed:

Reason 1

Reason 2

Benefits of a Comprehensive Approach

A comprehensive approach offers several advantages for motorcycle accident claims. It ensures that medical needs are prioritized, damages are accurately calculated, and settlement strategies align with long term recovery goals. Clients benefit from consistent updates, proactive planning, and a clear roadmap through negotiations or litigation. This approach reduces the chance of overlooked costs and supports a stronger negotiating position. In Cayucos, the connection to local medical resources and insurers helps streamline the process while maintaining a focus on fairness and accountability for those responsible for the crash.

Another key benefit is risk management: by coordinating evidence, timelines, and expert input, the case remains resilient against challenges from opposing parties. A well organized file enables quicker responses to requests and healthier settlement discussions. The attorney’s role includes translating complex legal concepts into actionable steps for the client, so they understand how choices affect outcomes. Across California, managing communications professionally and ethically fosters trust and reduces confusion during what can be a stressful period following a motorcycle collision.

Benefit One

Benefit one is improved clarity and direction throughout the case. A comprehensive approach creates a structured plan, enabling steady progress and informed decision making. Clients can review options, understand potential risks, and anticipate costs. This clarity helps reduce anxiety and supports timely medical care and recovery.

Benefit Two

Benefit two is stronger leverage in negotiations. With comprehensive documentation, medical evidence, and a complete damages picture, the attorney can advocate for fair settlements or a favorable verdict. The goal is to secure compensation that reflects the true impact of the crash on the victim’s life, including ongoing care and mobility needs.

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Service Pro Tips for Motorcycle Accident Claims

Tip 1

Seek medical attention promptly after a crash, even if injuries are not immediately obvious. Early treatment helps protect health and preserves documentation of symptoms and treatment costs. Keep copies of all medical bills, prescriptions, and appointment notes, and share them with your attorney to build a strong case. Maintaining a personal record of time away from work and daily activities also supports the claim for compensation and demonstrates the impact of the crash over time.

Tip 2

Document the accident scene if possible, including photos of damage, road conditions, weather, traffic flow, and skid marks. Collect contact information from witnesses and the other party. Note the location, time, and sequence of events to aid investigators. This information strengthens liability arguments and helps establish an accurate timeline for medical care and recovery. Share the details with your attorney so they can integrate it into the claim and respond effectively to insurer requests.

Tip 3

Keep a detailed record of medical appointments, therapy sessions, and medication changes. Tracking progress and ongoing treatment costs supports future recovery needs and helps present a comprehensive damages calculation. Your attorney can help organize records, contact treating physicians for summaries, and coordinate referrals for specialists as needed.

Reasons to Consider This Service

After a motorcycle crash, it is important to consider the value of guidance from a skilled attorney who understands California law and local Cayucos resources. A knowledgeable advocate can help secure medical attention, insurance coverage, and timely compensation for losses. Additionally, a lawyer can evaluate the strength of the case, identify liable parties, and plan a path that protects future rights. With a clear plan and reliable support, victims can pursue recovery while navigating the complexities of claims and settlement negotiations.

Choosing to work with a local attorney in Cayucos provides ongoing communication, timely updates, and a steady presence during a challenging period. The right attorney helps manage medical appointments, coordinate the gathering of records, and negotiate with insurers to pursue full compensation. A thoughtful approach reduces stress, clarifies expectations, and ensures that the case remains aligned with long term wellbeing. In California, a proactive strategy can make a meaningful difference in outcomes after a motorcycle crash.

Common Circumstances Requiring This Service

Common circumstances include collisions with other motorists on highway corridors near Cayucos, rough roads causing rider loss of control, or incidents involving uninsured motorists and hit and run drivers. Injuries may range from minor sprains to serious fractures, head injuries, or long term mobility concerns. In cases where medical treatment is ongoing, and there is substantial property damage or missed work, legal guidance helps pursue appropriate compensation and ensures that medical needs are addressed. A careful assessment helps prioritize safety and recovery.

Common Circumstance 1

Unknown or disputed liability is a frequent factor in Cayucos motorcycle crashes. When responsibility is unclear, a lawyer can gather evidence and consult experts to identify the responsible party or parties. The process may involve reviewing traffic camera footage, dashcam video, or surveillance in nearby businesses. By establishing fault, the claim strengthens the basis for compensation and outlines the path toward a resolution that supports the rider’s recovery.

Common Circumstance 2

Serious injuries that require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, or long term therapy create larger evidence needs and longer timelines. A comprehensive legal approach coordinates medical records, value of ongoing care, and potential future losses. The attorney guides the client through the process, ensuring that medical providers document the relationship between the crash and injuries and that the damages reflect the true cost of care and time away from work.

Common Circumstance 3

Complex insurance disputes, such as liability denial or disputed treatment charges, require careful negotiation and documentation. An experienced attorney helps gather medical evidence, repair estimates, and relevant receipts to clarify financial responsibility. This support reduces confusion and helps secure an outcome that aligns with medical needs and financial realities following a motorcycle collision.

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We're Here to Help

Our team is ready to listen to your story, assess your situation, and outline practical next steps. We approach Cayucos clients with patience and clear communication, ensuring you understand options for medical care, insurance discussions, and potential legal action. You are invited to share details about the crash, injuries, and life impact so we can tailor a plan that fits your needs. Respect for your time, privacy, and goals guides every interaction as we work toward fair resolution and recovery.

Why Hire Us for Motorcycle Accident Service

Choosing a local law firm with California experience provides trusted guidance during a difficult time. We focus on motorcycle accident claims in Cayucos, offering careful assessment, clear communication, and a disciplined approach to recovery. Our team seeks to protect your rights, maximize compensation, and support your rehabilitation. We coordinate with medical professionals, insurance adjusters, and experts to build a strong claim while avoiding unnecessary delays. The goal is to help you regain stability, confidence, and a sense of security after a crash.

Clients benefit from a direct line of communication, consistent updates, and a strategy that respects your pace and health needs. We explain options in plain language and guide you through every step, from initial consultation to settlement or trial. The firm operates with integrity and a focus on your long term wellbeing, ensuring that settlements reflect current and future costs. In Cayucos, local knowledge supports an effective, practical approach that emphasizes fairness and accountability for those responsible for a motorcycle crash.

By choosing a firm that understands California law and the Cayucos community, you gain a partner who prioritizes your recovery and practical outcomes. We handle negotiation with insurers, coordinate medical records, and prepare evidence for trial if needed. The process is designed to relieve stress and provide dependable support while pursuing fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Our aim is to help you move forward with confidence, knowing you have dedicated counsel guiding the way.

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Legal Process at Our Firm

At our firm, the legal process begins with a thorough consultation to understand injuries, losses, and priorities. We gather evidence, review insurance communications, and outline potential strategies. Clients receive a clear timeline and ongoing updates as the case progresses toward resolution. If needed, we prepare for negotiations, mediation, or trial, keeping the client’s goals in focus. Our approach emphasizes compassionate service, practical planning, and a steady commitment to pursuing fair compensation for Cayucos riders who have been impacted by motorcycle crashes.

Legal Process Step One

Step one centers on information gathering and case evaluation. The attorney collects medical records, police reports, witness statements, and financial documents to build a complete picture of the harms suffered. This phase also involves identifying responsible parties and potential insurers, as well as clarifying risks and timelines. Clear communication helps the client understand the role of each step, while careful organization reduces the chance of delays. In Cayucos, early action can position the case for stronger negotiations or a smoother path to resolution.

Part One of Step One

During the first part of the initial stage, the attorney reviews all obtained materials, organizes them into a structured file, and creates a plan tailored to the client’s needs. The focus is on accurately documenting injuries, treatment plans, and the impact on daily living. Clients are kept informed as this groundwork forms the basis for any demand packages or settlement discussions. The process emphasizes dependable communication and careful record keeping that supports a strong claim and efficient progress.

Part Two of Step One

Continuing the first stage, the attorney identifies potential defendants, vendors, and experts whose input strengthens the case. This phase may involve preliminary negotiations with insurers and setting expectations for medical care and recovery timelines. The client receives guidance on documentation needs and next steps, including potential timelines for submitting initial demands. By maintaining clarity and focus, the team helps Cayucos residents feel informed and empowered as the claim proceeds toward the next phase.

Legal Process Step Two

Step two centers on negotiation and demand letters or settlement discussions. The attorney presents a comprehensive summary of injuries, medical treatments, and losses, supported by evidence gathered in the first phase. Depending on responses, the process may shift toward mediation or continued negotiations. Throughout this phase, the client receives updates and guidance on when to accept an offer or pursue further action. In Cayucos, a steady negotiation strategy and attention to detail help ensure that a fair outcome aligns with medical needs and financial realities.

Part 1 of Step Two

During the second step, the attorney expands on the settlement package with a detailed description of every category of loss. This includes medical expenses, lost wages, future care needs, and non economic damages. The aim is to present a persuasive request backed by credible documentation and expert opinions where necessary. The client remains informed about offers and adjustments, and understands the reasoning behind each negotiation move. The approach centers on balancing prompt resolution with full, fair compensation.

Part 2 of Step Two

Following negotiations, the attorney may engage in mediation or prepare for litigation if a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached. This phase requires careful preparation of pleadings, evidence, and witness preparation. Clients are kept in the loop regarding strategy, timelines, and potential outcomes. The Cayucos community benefits from a pragmatic approach that seeks efficient resolution while preserving the right to pursue a verdict if needed.

Legal Process Step Three

Step three focuses on resolution through settlement or trial. If a settlement is reached, the terms are documented in a formal agreement. If not, the case proceeds to court with carefully prepared filings, discovery, and potential expert testimony. Throughout this final phase, the client’s goals guide decisions, and the attorney advocates for fair compensation, clear medical coverage, and consideration of future needs. In Cayucos, this stage reflects the culmination of a carefully managed process designed to bring closure and restore stability after a motorcycle crash.

Part 1 of Step Three

During the final stage before resolution, the attorney coordinates witnesses, organizes exhibits, and reviews expert input to refine the case presentation. The goal is to convey the impact of the crash with precision, ensuring juries or negotiators understand the relationship between injuries and the events. Clients receive updates on milestones, and the team prepares to respond to last minute questions or requests. The emphasis remains on fairness, accountability, and a clear path toward recovery.

Part 2 of Step Three

Concluding the process, the attorney helps finalize settlement documents or coordinates the trial logistics. They confirm that all medical provider bills and liens are addressed, that settlement terms are understood, and that ongoing medical needs are protected. The Cayucos client leaves the process with a document that reflects the full scope of damages and a plan for moving ahead. This final phase emphasizes compassionate guidance, practical planning, and a commitment to achieving a secure future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a motorcycle crash in Cayucos?

After a motorcycle crash in Cayucos, start with safety and medical care. If you are able, move to a safe location, call emergency services if needed, and exchange information with the other party. Document injuries, vehicle damage, road conditions, and weather. Seek medical attention promptly even if symptoms seem minor, because some injuries become evident days later. Collect witness contact details and take photos of the scene, and keep records of all medical visits and expenses. This early documentation anchors your claim and supports future treatment decisions.\n\nThen contact an attorney who handles California motorcycle accident claims. A local attorney can explain your rights, assess liability, and help you choose a reasonable pathway forward. They will review police reports, gather medical records, and communicate with insurers on your behalf. Avoid signing settlements without guidance, as this can limit future recovery. A qualified attorney focuses on your long term recovery, helps manage deadlines, and works to obtain compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other harms while you heal.

Fault in California motorcycle crashes is determined under comparative negligence rules. This means each party’s degree of fault affects whether and how much compensation is available. Investigators review evidence such as police reports, camera footage, skid marks, witness statements, and expert opinions to assign responsibility. Even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover a portion of damages, depending on your share of responsibility. An attorney can help preserve your rights and present a strong argument for a fair allocation of liability.\n\nEfforts to prove fault involve reconstructing events, analyzing road conditions, and evaluating medical evidence. Insurance adjusters may try to limit liability or claim contributory negligence. A Cayucos attorney can coordinate with investigators and medical professionals, ensure all injuries are documented, and help you understand how California’s comparative fault rules apply to your case.

Damages after a motorcycle crash include medical costs, rehabilitation, medications, lost wages, and long term care if needed. Pain and suffering and decreased quality of life may also be recoverable, depending on the case. Economic damages cover actual costs, while noneconomic damages compensate for impact on daily life. A lawyer helps calculate present and future losses, including potential future medical needs and lost earning capacity, and presents a claim that reflects the total impact of the crash on your finances and well being.\n\nGathering documentation such as medical bills, hospital records, time off work notes, and repair estimates strengthens the claim. A well prepared claim demonstrates the causal link between the crash and injuries. Insurance negotiations and court actions rely on a clear damages package. An attorney’s guidance helps ensure you pursue the full range of damages available under California law while maintaining focus on your recovery.

You do not strictly need an attorney to file a claim, but having one increases the likelihood of obtaining appropriate compensation and navigating complex insurance guidelines. An attorney provides advice on damages, liability, and deadlines, helps prepare demand letters, and coordinates medical documentation. They can also identify liable parties beyond the at fault driver. In Cayucos, local familiarity with the court system and insurers supports a smoother process and reduces risk of errors that could delay or reduce your recovery.\n\nIf you choose to proceed without counsel, you should still keep careful records, follow medical advice, and respond promptly to insurer requests. However, many cases benefit from professional guidance to ensure claims are accurate, timely, and fully documented. Consulting with a motorcycle accident attorney can clarify options, set expectations, and help protect your rights as you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and related harms.

California has deadlines known as statutes of limitations for filing a personal injury case after a motorcycle crash. In most situations, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit, but there are exceptions based on the specifics of the incident and involved defendants. It is important to act promptly to preserve evidence and avoid missing deadlines that could bar your claim. An experienced attorney can assess your case and outline a realistic timeline.\n\nEarly action also helps gather necessary evidence, contact witnesses, and obtain medical records before memories fade. A Cayucos attorney can help you understand deadlines in your situation, determine if any tolling applies, and coordinate a plan to pursue settlement or litigation within California law. The goal is to maximize recovery while keeping you informed and supported throughout the process.

What to bring to a consult includes medical records, wage information, police reports, insurance correspondence, and any photographs from the scene. Also bring a list of injuries, treatment providers, and any questions you have about the process. Bringing a calendar of missed work days and estimates for future medical care helps the attorney evaluate damages. The goal of the initial meeting is to establish a clear picture of your case and outline the next steps.\n\nHaving organized documents makes the consult more efficient and productive. Include contact information for witnesses, doctors, and employers, as well as any settlement offers you have received. If possible, bring any correspondence from insurers requesting medical authorizations. This helps the attorney identify potential areas of concern and begin building a strong claim right away.

A settlement can cover most medical costs and some related losses, but a comprehensive review is essential to ensure future needs are included. Medical care, therapy, and ongoing treatments may require extended coverage. The settlement calculation should incorporate both current and anticipated expenses, as well as lost income and potential reduced earning capacity.\n\nAn attorney evaluates the total value of a claim, including future medical care, long term rehabilitation, and anticipated life adjustments. They negotiate with insurers to secure a fair settlement and may pursue alternatives if needed. In Cayucos, a well documented claim with clear medical support tends to yield stronger offers and better protection for ongoing needs.

If you were partly at fault, you can still pursue damages under California’s comparative fault rules. Your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault, but you may still obtain compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other harms. The degree of fault and the evidence supporting fault will shape the final outcome.\n\nAn attorney helps determine liability and how fault will affect recovery. They will gather evidence to establish who caused the crash and the extent of damages. In Cayucos, the approach focuses on accuracy, thorough documentation, and a strategy that reflects both the injuries and your responsibilities under the law.

A contingency fee agreement means the attorney is paid from a portion of any settlement or verdict, and you typically owe no attorney fees unless you recover. This structure aligns the attorney’s interest with your outcome. It is important to discuss the exact percentage and any costs or expenses that may be deducted.\n\nClear communication about fees helps manage expectations and reduces stress. A local Cayucos attorney can explain the terms in plain language, outline potential costs, and ensure you understand how expenses are handled if the case does not result in compensation. The arrangement allows you to pursue compensation without upfront legal costs while focusing on recovery.

Choosing the right motorcycle accident attorney involves evaluating experience with California and Cayucos cases, communication style, and compatibility with your goals. Look for responsiveness, a track record of settlements or verdicts, and an approach that emphasizes clear explanations and client involvement. A good attorney explains options, timelines, and possible outcomes, helping you feel informed and supported.\n\nConsider meeting with multiple attorneys to compare strategies and determine who fits best. Ask about fees, anticipated timelines, and the plan for evidence gathering. The right attorney in Cayucos will balance assertive advocacy with compassionate guidance, ensuring you have a trusted partner who will stand up for your rights and help you move forward after a motorcycle crash.

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