Dolen, Tucker, Tierney & Abraham Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Redlands

Helping you with Motorcycle Accidents in Redlands

California may be one of the best places in the world to ride a motorcycle. We have winding canyon roads, beautiful vistas and world-famous stops to enjoy. That may be why there are more motorcyclists in the State of California than anywhere else in the country. However, riding has its risks.

Motorcycles do not have cabins, seatbelts or airbags to protect their riders. Often motorcyclists only have helmets, leather jackets and boots to fend off the dangers of the road. Worse yet, drivers often fail to notice when they are sharing the road with motorcycles. This is why motorcycle riders need extra protection when they ride. Having a reliable motorcycle accident attorney in Redlands should be one of those protections.

At Dolen, Tucker, Tierney & Abraham, our veteran attorney has the experience injured motorcyclists need. James F. Tierney, III has protected the rights of the seriously injured for over 40 years. He can help you recover the compensation you need in this challenging time.

Call us at (909) 473-4948 or contact online for a motorcycle accident attorney in Redlands

What Makes California Highways Dangerous for Motorcyclists?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that California has around 900,000 motorcycle registrations. That is only around 3 percent of the total vehicle registrations in the state. Yet, motorcyclists make up around 15 percent of the fatal California motor vehicle accidents.

Why do motorcyclists make up such a disproportionate number of roadway deaths? Here are a few of the top dangers motorcyclist face on our highways:

Left-Hand Turns - Too often, drivers fail to see motorcyclists on the road. This can have serious repercussions if it happens right before a car or a truck takes a left-hand turn. The resulting crash can cause broken bones, spinal cord injuries, head trauma or worse. This is the most common type of motorcycle accident.
Car Changing Lanes - In some instances, drivers fail to notice motorcycles that are traveling right next to them. Whether they fail to check their blind spots, or if they have the music up too loud, this lack of attentiveness can be costly.
Rear-End Crash - Once again, a driver's lack of attention can cost a motorcyclist dearly. If a vehicle behind a motorcyclist is moving at a high rate of speed and fails to stop, a severe injury is almost guaranteed. Even at low speeds, a car hitting a motorcycle can result in injuries and thousands of dollars in damage.
Dooring - Probably the most egregious act of inattention. Occupants of cars sometimes forget to check if the way is clear before they open their doors. This has even happened in slow traffic situations making lane-splitting a dangerous prospect.

Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents

Due to the lack of protection and the size of cars, motorcyclist often suffer severe injuries. Some of those common injuries include:

Broken bones (especially in the legs and feet)
Severe abrasions such as road rash
Burns
Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal injuries

These injuries can result in extended recovery times that could prevent you from working. Even after recovering, you may find your work capacity limited. This can have a huge impact on your way of life, but calling a Redlands motorcycle accident attorney may help.

Who is Commonly at Fault in Motorcycle Accidents

The person driving the car is usually at fault in a motorcycle collision. Most commonly because they did not see the motorcycle. That being said it is not always their fault. Final decision is made once all data and analysis is gathered.

FAQ: Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Redlands

1. What steps should I take immediately after a motorcycle accident?
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, first make sure to move to safety if possible and call 911 for medical help, even if you feel fine initially. Document the scene by taking photos, gathering witness information, and making notes on the circumstances. Avoid discussing fault with anyone at the scene, including the other driver, until you have spoken with an attorney.

2. Do I need a motorcycle accident attorney, or can I handle the claim myself?
While it is possible to file a claim independently, a motorcycle accident attorney can bring extensive experience with injury cases and insurance negotiations. They can help ensure you aren’t unfairly blamed, avoid low settlements, and maximize your compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term impacts.

3. What damages can I recover after a motorcycle accident?
You may be able to recover various types of damages, including:

Medical Expenses: Covering all related current and future treatments.
Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your motorcycle.
Lost Income: Compensation for time away from work and potential future earnings.
Pain and Suffering: For emotional distress, physical pain, and reduced quality of life.
Disability and Disfigurement: In cases of long-term injuries or scarring.

4. What if the other driver was partially at fault?
California follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. An attorney can help to accurately establish this percentage to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

5. How are motorcycle accidents different from other vehicle accidents?
Motorcycle accidents often result in more severe injuries due to the lack of protective barriers, like a car’s frame, airbags, and seat belts. These accidents can involve unique factors, like lane-splitting, limited visibility, and high vulnerability to weather or road conditions, which require specialized legal expertise.

6. Can a motorcycle accident attorney help if the insurance company denies my claim?
Yes, an attorney can step in if your claim is denied, often negotiating directly with the insurance company to clarify facts, provide additional documentation, and protect your rights. If necessary, they can also take the case to court to help ensure a fair outcome.

7. How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, consulting an attorney sooner is advisable to allow ample time for gathering evidence, speaking to witnesses, and preparing a strong case.

8. How can I afford a motorcycle accident attorney if I’m facing medical bills and lost wages?
Most motorcycle accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. This arrangement allows you to pursue your claim without upfront costs, as legal fees are typically deducted from your settlement or award.

Call us at (909) 473-4948 or contact online for a motorcycle accident attorney in Redlands