Riverside Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Aggressive Representation for Injured Bikers

A motorcycle accident can have a devastating impact on any biker involved, especially concerning collisions with larger motor vehicles. Because bikers aren't afforded the same protections as those who drive more traditional vehicles—such as seatbelts, airbags, and a strong metal frame—they are often faced with costly medical bills and other expenses as well as a long recovery process. In the most tragic cases, a motorcycle accident may result in the biker's death, leaving their family to manage sudden expenses and insurance claims while trying to grieve for their lost loved one.

At Vetchtein Law, our Riverside motorcycle accident lawyers have decades of extensive experience fighting for the rights of injured bikers throughout Southern California. If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious motorcycle crash, we can help you attain compensation that will adequately cover all your accident-related expenses while you focus on recovery.

If you or a loved one were injured in a motorcycle accident, contact the dedicated Riverside motorcycle accident attorneys of Vetchtein Law at (888) 963-9999.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics & Trends in Riverside

According to a San Gabriel Valley Tribune article, California motorcycle-related fatalities have more than doubled since 1997. Between the years of 1994 to 2016, motorcyclist fatalities rose from 5.7% of the total number of motor vehicle fatalities in the United States to more than 14% of all reported traffic deaths—even though motorcycles make up just 3% of all registered vehicles in the country.

Fortunately, the California Office of Traffic Safety reports that motorcycle fatalities decreased 15.57% from 578 in 2017 to 488 in 2018. Still, the number of deaths—and injuries, which number in the thousands each year—in both the state and the country are alarming.

Other motorcycle accident facts from recent years include:

• In 2017, 5,316 motorcyclists were killed in the U.S. because they were riding drunk.
• California ranks in the top 15 of the 50 states in motorcycle-related fatalities.
• Motorcycle deaths in California accounted for 15.1% of total motor vehicle deaths nationwide in 2016.
• Most motorcycle accident deaths occur on weekends, especially after 6 pm.

Why are motorcycle accidents on the rise in our state? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that the number of licensed drivers in California has been on a steady uptick and more motorists on the road likely make riding a motorcycle more dangerous. It could also be related to lax motorcycle licensing laws or the allowance of lane splitting, the latter being a topic that has divided experts concerning whether it is safer or more dangerous to permit it. Regardless of the reason, we advise both bikers and motorists to look out for each other at all times.

Common Causes & Effects of Motorcycle Accidents

Most motorcycle accidents are single-vehicle crashes, meaning that only the driver of the bike is involved. However, a startling number of crashes involve multiple vehicles—it is these accidents we handle most often at our firm.

Motorcyclists are blamed for being reckless on the roads, but it is just as often drivers of traditional passenger automobiles as well as commercial vehicles that are not paying close attention that cause accidents with motorcyclists. Heavy traffic and distracted driving, both major issues in Southern California, often lead to motorcycle accidents, for instance.

Motorcycle accidents are often caused when drivers:

• Are distracted by cell phone use, eating, changing the radio station, etc.
• Change lanes or turn without looking over their shoulder
• Fail to stop completely at a stop sign, traffic signal, or when pulling out of a driveway or parking spot
• Turn left in front of a motorcyclist
• Open their car door when parked into the path of an oncoming motorcycle
• Operate their vehicle recklessly, such as by speeding or tailgating
• Operate their vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Come to a sudden stop when a motorcyclist is following behind them

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

When a car and a motorcycle collide, it often comes down to the fact that the motorist simply did not see the biker until it was too late. Yet, it is often the biker who suffers in this situation. Motorcycle accidents can easily result in bikers sustaining severe injuries due to the general lack of protection around the motorcyclist.

For this reason, bikers often suffer injuries such as:

• Road rash
• Broken bones
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Internal injuries
• Wrongful death

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, trust your case to an experienced Riverside motorcycle accident attorney at our seasoned firm.

FAQs about Motorcycle Accidents in Riverside

What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

The moments immediately following a motorcycle accident are crucial for your health and any future legal proceedings. First, ensure your safety and the safety of others by moving to a safe location if possible. Call 911 to report the accident and seek medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor. This can prevent undetected injuries from worsening. Collect evidence from the scene, including photographs of the accident site, vehicle damages, and any visible injuries. Additionally, obtain contact information from witnesses and the other parties involved. Once you have sought medical attention and ensured your safety, contact a Riverside motorcycle accident attorney to discuss your situation and potential next steps.

How Can an Attorney Help with My Motorcycle Accident?

Engaging a Riverside motorcycle accident lawyer can be instrumental in protecting your rights and interests after an accident. An attorney provides legal guidance on navigating communication with insurance companies, often maximizing the compensation you might be entitled to. They will evaluate your accident comprehensively, gathering necessary documentation like medical records, witness testimonies, and expert opinions to build a solid legal argument. Moreover, a lawyer negotiates on your behalf to ensure you receive adequate compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and any other incurred damages. By handling the legal complexities, they allow you to focus on recuperation and getting your life back on track.

What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Motorcycle Accident?

After a motorcycle accident, some common mistakes can jeopardize your ability to receive compensation. One major mistake is failing to seek medical attention immediately, which can lead to worsening injuries and undermine your legal standing. Another error is speaking too freely with insurance adjusters, who might use your statements against you to minimize liability. Avoid settling claims quickly without understanding the full extent of your injuries and damages. Additionally, not documenting the accident scene or ignoring evidence gathering, like photographs and witness statements, can weaken your ability to make a compelling legal argument. Lastly, neglecting to consult an attorney early on can impact your understanding of your rights and options.

Are There Any Time Constraints for Filing a Claim?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including those involving motorcycle accidents, is generally two years from the date of the incident. This period underscores the importance of acting promptly to gather evidence and initiate legal proceedings if necessary. Delays in starting the process can lead to significant challenges, such as lost evidence, fading witness recollections, and eventually losing the right to seek compensation altogether. Consulting with a Riverside motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible can help you understand the timelines and what actions should be taken to ensure you preserve your rights.

What Types of Compensation Can I Recover After a Motorcycle Accident?

After a motorcycle accident, victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation, dependent on the specifics of the accident and injuries sustained. Potential compensatory measures include coverage for immediate medical bills, ongoing medical treatments, and rehabilitation costs. You may also recover lost wages from time off work and loss of future earning capacity if the injuries impede your ability to continue in your current employment. Additionally, compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of quality of life may also be considered. Working with a knowledgeable Riverside motorcycle accident attorney ensures that all potential avenues for compensation are explored, securing the financial support you need during recovery.

Consult with Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today

We work on behalf of our injured clients to establish liability and will fight for fair compensation. This compensation may include reimbursement for medical expenses and payment for loss of wages now and in the future. Furthermore, the Riverside motorcycle accident lawyers at Vetchtein Law can fight for additional compensation in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases.

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries and we understand the stress and financial burden that comes with these damages. Choose our firm to guide you on your journey to recovery.

Call our firm at (888) 963-9999 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free case evaluation today.