Riverside Motorcycle Accident Attorney

A motorcycle offers a sense of freedom that few other forms of transportation can match. The design of these powerful machines makes riding one an elemental experience. Unfortunately, motorcycles also leave you more vulnerable if things go wrong. With their potential for serious injury, motorcycle accidents can be devastating. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, an experienced Riverside motorcycle accident attorney would be an invaluable ally.

Do I need an attorney for a motorcycle accident?

If you have been in a motorcycle accident, you probably need an experienced attorney. The vast majority of motorcycle accidents involve another driver, physical injuries, or both. When these factors come into play, things can quickly become complicated, so it is smart to have an expert on your team offering guidance and support.

Insurance companies have skilled lawyers working to protect their bottom lines by keeping any paid settlements as small as possible. To protect your interests and maximize your compensation, you need a Riverside motorcycle accident attorney who is willing to fight for you. Unless it was a minor, one-vehicle accident that was unquestionably your fault and caused only slight property damage, you will want to enlist the services of a skilled attorney as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident.

Do motorcycle accidents affect car insurance?

California law requires that all registered vehicles be insured, including motorcycles. In fact, motorcyclists must carry liability insurance that is tailored specifically to their vehicle, and they must have proof of that insurance with them whenever they hit the road.

Will a motorcycle accident affect your car insurance? You can ask your insurance agent, but it is likely that an accident on a motorcycle will indeed impact your car insurance. After all, insurers typically consider a driver’s overall driving record and insist that they are notified of any claims that you have had when your policy is up for renewal.

How severe are motorcycle accidents?

Cars and trucks wrap the people they transport in a protective cage of metal that is often further reinforced with safety features like seat belts and airbags. Motorcyclists forgo these defenses, so an accident can be catastrophic. When involved in a crash, motorcyclists often suffer serious, life-changing injuries like the following:

• Head, neck, and back injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal injuries and paralysis
• Muscle and joint damage
• Road rash, lacerations, and contusions
• Broken bones and fractures
• Amputations and burns
• Internal injuries
• Death

How do most motorcycle accidents occur?

According to a 2013 study by the University of South Florida, 60 percent of vehicular collisions involving a motorcycle are the fault of the other vehicle. In many cases, the other driver fails to spot the motorcyclist. This makes head-on collisions a genuine concern, especially since this type of crash is the cause of 78 percent of fatal motorcycle accidents, according to the National Safety Council. Drivers turning left and switching lanes can also present a real threat to motorcyclists. On the other hand, motorcyclists can also be at fault. Speeding, following too closely, and engaging in dangerous maneuvering are common triggers for motorcycle accidents.

How many motorcycle accidents happen each year?

How real is the risk of a motorcycle accident? The Insurance Information Institute reports that more than 5,000 fatal crashes involving motorcycles occurred in 2015. Another 84,000 motorcycle accidents resulted in injury, and 13,000 resulted in property damage. Clearly, the possibility of a serious accident is very real.

How much money can I get from a motorcycle accident?

Being in a motorcycle accident can be incredibly disruptive. In addition to the pain of any injuries, you are also likely to deal with the stress of missed work and mounting medical bills. How much money can you expect from a settlement? That depends on the circumstances of your accident and the damages resulting from it. Generally speaking, if you are injured because of another driver’s actions, you could receive compensation for the following:

• Damage to your motorcycle
• Medical expenses
• Future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering

What can I do to avoid a motorcycle accident?

While some factors will always be beyond your control, you can take certain steps to protect yourself while riding your motorcycle. For starters, get professional training so that you are adequately prepared for the situations you likely will encounter while riding. Also, wear protective clothing in bright colors to increase your visibility. When riding, always assume that drivers traveling nearby have not seen you, and take the appropriate precautions. Finally, be aware of your surroundings and on the lookout for hazards.

What should I do after a motorcycle accident?

No matter how skilled or cautious you are, when you ride a motorcycle, there is a chance that you will be involved in a motorcycle accident. If this occurs:

• Move to safety.
• Determine whether you or anyone else is injured. If anyone needs medical attention, call 911.
• Call the police to report the accident, and inform them of any injuries or damage.
• Exchange information with the other driver, but limit your conversation to the necessities. Do not apologize or admit fault.
• Take pictures, and collect contact information or statements from any witnesses.
• Seek medical care for your injuries. Even if you are not obviously hurt, getting checked out is wise because some injuries are not immediately apparent.
• Notify your insurance company of the crash, but do not admit fault or provide estimates regarding your damages.
• Contact a skilled motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.

At Rizio Lipinsky Heiting, we understand that being involved in a motorcycle accident is distressing, disorienting, and disruptive. Our skilled legal team is ready to help you sort through the chaos and confusion and build a convincing case to secure the compensation that you deserve. If you are in need of an expert Riverside motorcycle accident attorney, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.