Dolen, Tucker, Tierney & Abraham Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Redlands

Helping You With Motorcycle Accident Claims in Redlands, CA

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. Redlands is particularly known for its motorcycling community, offering a sense of camaraderie among local riders, which can greatly assist in gathering eyewitnesses and supporting evidence for your case.

Call us at (909) 473-4948 or contact us online to get in touch with 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 motorcyclists face on our highways:

Left-Hand Turns - If a car or truck takes a left-hand turn without noticing a motorcyclist, 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 - Drivers may fail to check their blind spots or have the music up too loud. This lack of attentiveness can lead to severe accidents.
Rear-End Crash - 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 - 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.

Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Due to the lack of protection and the size of cars, motorcyclists 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.

What Damages Can I Recover After a Motorcycle Accident?

Motorcycle accidents often lead to serious injuries, steep medical expenses, and significant emotional and financial stress. Compensation is intended to support injured victims by covering their losses and helping them move forward in recovery.

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.

Understanding these types of damages is vital for recovering the comprehensive compensation owed to you. Our motorcycle accident attorney in Redlands can tailor your claim to effectively pursue the maximum amount of compensation you're entitled to.

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. The local courthouse in Redlands can sometimes expedite claim processes, making prompt action significant in maximizing your strategy.

Dial (909) 473-4948 for Guidance in Your Redlands Motorcycle Accident Case

Hurt in a motorcycle accident? Let our team guide you. Whether your accident occurred on the I-10 or on a smaller road, our motorcycle accident lawyer in Redlands is committed to assisting you. Let us handle the heavy lifting while you focus on recovery.

Call us at (909) 473-4948 or contact us online. Our motorcycle accident attorney in Redlands can guide you throughout the entire legal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Steps Should I Take 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. Be sure to exchange name, contact, and insurance information with the involved driver(s). Avoid discussing fault with anyone at the scene, including the other driver, until you have spoken with an attorney. Be aware that in Redlands, some intersections are equipped with traffic cameras, which can be advantageous in collecting evidence if handled promptly.

2. Do I Need to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney?

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 you avoid unfair blame, avoid low settlements, and maximize your compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and long-term impacts. Navigating the intricacies of California’s traffic laws and insurance protocols is complex, and having professional legal assistance can better align the resolution with your interests.

3. 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. Particularly in tricky situations encountered on the bustling thoroughfares around Redlands, expert evaluation is key.

4. How Are Motorcycle Accidents Different from Other Vehicle Accidents?

Motorcycle accidents can 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 considerations. In Redlands, abrupt weather shifts common in the area add another layer of consideration when addressing motorcycle accident cases.

5. 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. In the Redlands region, where insurance companies may not always fully grasp the local nuances impacting an accident, this representation becomes even more crucial.