Riverside Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Riverside Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Motorcyclists face many challenges on the roadways. Accidents can cause serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. A Riverside motorcycle accident lawyer from Corrales Law Group can help injured motorcyclists recover the personal injury compensation they deserve.

Why Motorcycle Accident Victims in Riverside Need Experienced Legal Representation

Even though motorcycles only make up 3% of the registered vehicles in the U.S., they account for 14.6% of traffic fatalities, according to 2022 data. In 2021, Riverside County reported 200 serious injury motorcycle accidents and 30 motorcycle accident fatalities.

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries because of the lack of physical protection that larger, enclosed vehicles provide. Even seemingly minor collisions can lead to catastrophic injuries or death.

In addition to the struggles motorcyclists face, bias still exists against motorcycles. Insurance companies and opposing parties may try to shift the blame onto the rider, even when they weren’t at fault. Having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Riverside on your side can make sure your case is taken seriously by these parties.

At Corrales Law Group, we understand the mechanics of motorcycle accidents, the common tactics used by insurance companies, and the losses clients may face. Our experienced team can thoroughly investigate your accident, gather all possible evidence, and build a strong claim to pursue maximum compensation.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Riverside’s roads and major highways, such as SR 60, I-215, and SR 91, can get congested, leading to the risk of collisions. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents reported include:

• Distracted driving. Drivers talking on the phone, texting, or using other technology in the car can easily miss seeing a motorcycle.
• Unsafe lane changes. Since motorcycles are small and can disappear in another vehicle’s blind spot, drivers may not see them when they look quickly in their mirrors to change lanes.
• Speeding. Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react in time. Speed can also increase the severity of the crash.
• Failure to yield. Many accidents occur when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to motorcyclists at intersections or when making left-hand turns.
• Driving under the influence. Impaired driving is a significant cause of serious and fatal motorcycle accidents.
• Road hazards. Uneven pavement, potholes, debris, and poorly marked construction zones can be dangerous for motorcyclists.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle injuries can take on many different forms, ranging from minor to catastrophic. Some common injuries for motorcyclists include:

• Broken bones or fractures
• Severe road rash
• Deep cuts
• Spinal cord injuries
• Paralysis
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Internal organ damage
• Burn injuries
• Amputations
• Psychological trauma, such as PTSD

Many of these injuries require lengthy medical treatment, physical therapy, and time off work to recover. Some victims cannot return to work at all. Corrales Law Group fights to secure comprehensive compensation that truly reflects the long-term impact of these injuries.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Riverside

After a motorcycle accident, you can support both your claim and health by taking the proper steps.

• Call 911. Get emergency help right away, and make sure a police report is filed.
• Seek medical attention. Get examined by a medical professional, as some minor injuries could become major injuries if left untreated or undiagnosed. This also creates a medical record that will be used when building your claim.
• Document the scene. If you’re physically able to do so, take photos of your injuries, the accident scene, road conditions, and other vehicles involved.
• Collect contact information. Gather contact details from the other drivers involved, their insurance companies, and any witnesses to the accident.
• Do not admit fault. Avoid making any statements that could be perceived as admitting fault, as this could nullify your claim to compensation.
• Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. Before speaking to insurance companies, consult an attorney who can protect your rights and secure the compensation you need for your recovery.

Corrales Law Group can guide you through the claims process and make sure no details are overlooked. We can gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, and expert testimonies to determine responsibility.

Motorcycle accident victims suffer both economic and non-economic losses. Economic losses can include medical bills, lost wages, and long-term care needs. Non-economic losses include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and the loss of enjoyment in life.

We also handle communication with insurance providers to make sure they don’t undervalue or deny your claim. Our experienced legal team can take your case to trial, if necessary, to get you the justice you deserve.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Motorcycle Accident?

Motorcycle accident claims may involve multiple parties, depending on their unique circumstances. Potential at-fault parties may include:

• Another driver
• A commercial vehicle operator or trucking company
• A government entity responsible for road maintenance
• A manufacturer of a defective motorcycle part

Identifying the at-fault party is critical for obtaining compensation. In California, injury claims against the responsible party must be made in a timely manner. The state currently has a two-year statute of limitations. If the claim is against a government entity, however, the timeframe is shorter.

Failing to file within the appropriate time can bar you from recovering compensation. The Riverside motorcycle accident lawyers at Corrales Law Group can make sure you don’t miss any deadlines.

Motorcycle Accident Wrongful Death Claims

Losing a loved one in a motorcycle accident is devastating, especially when the incident occurred due to someone else’s negligence. Our attorneys represent families in wrongful death claims and can seek compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of income and future financial support
• Loss of companionship and emotional support
• Medical bills incurred prior to death

While no amount of money can replace your loved one, a successful claim can provide a sense of justice and financial stability during this difficult time.

FAQs About Riverside, CA Motorcycle Accident Laws

Who Is Responsible for Most Motorcycle Accidents?

Most motorcycle accidents are caused by negligent drivers. Common causes include drivers failing to yield, making unsafe lane changes, or not checking blind spots. Left-turn accidents are common, with other vehicles turning into the path of oncoming motorcycles. Determining liability requires a thorough investigation, which is why legal representation is crucial after experiencing a motorcycle accident.

What Deems a Motorcycle Totaled?

Like with any vehicle, a motorcycle is typically considered totaled if the repairs exceed the actual value of the bike. Sometimes, insurers base this on a specific percentage of the actual cash value. However, some insurers may offer a payout based on its market value before the crash. You can dispute the insurer’s valuation of the damage with evidence, such as maintenance records, upgrades, or recent appraisals, to negotiate for a better settlement.

What Should I Do If I’m in a Motorcycle Accident?

If you’re in a motorcycle accident, remain calm and get to a safe place if possible. Check for injuries, and call for emergency services. If you’re able, collect evidence by taking photos of the scene and gathering witness information. Be sure to get a medical evaluation. Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not present themselves until later. Report the incident to your insurance company, but do not make any detailed statements until you’ve spoken with a motorcycle accident attorney.

Does Insurance Cover a Motorcycle Accident?

Insurance can cover a motorcycle accident, but the extent of that coverage depends on your policy and who was at fault. Liability coverage pays for the other drivers’ or passengers’ injuries or property damage if you’re found at fault. If the other driver caused the crash, their liability coverage should compensate you. Comprehensive or collision coverage can repair or replace your motorcycle, and uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage protects you if the other driver lacks adequate insurance.

Can I Recover Compensation If I Was Partially at Fault?

Yes, you can still recover some compensation if you were partially at fault in a motorcycle accident. California follows a comparative negligence system for personal injury claims. This means your ability to recover compensation is not automatically barred if you were partially at fault. Your total compensation may just be reduced to your percentage of fault. This system is designed to be fairer and more flexible.

Contact a Riverside Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Corrales Law Group represents motorcycle accident victims throughout Riverside and the surrounding areas. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, we can help you navigate the legal process. We combine aggressive advocacy with personalized attention to details, such as determining the at-fault parties and the conditions leading to the accident. Our team can focus on handling the complexities of your legal claim while you focus on healing.

We can work closely with medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and insurance adjusters to build a strong case on your behalf. No matter the cause of your accident, we can pursue full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and emotional damages.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Our Riverside motorcycle accident lawyers can fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.