Daniel Carter | March 20, 2025 | Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, often leading to serious injuries or even death. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Fresno, California, you may be wondering whether you need a lawyer to help you with your case. The answer is likely yes.
A skilled personal injury lawyer can help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
The Dangers of Motorcycle Accidents in Fresno
Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately common in California, particularly in larger cities like Fresno. Motorcycle fatalities have been on the rise in recent years. In 2020, there were 565 motorcyclists killed and 10,553 injured in the state of California.
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable than car drivers due to the lack of protection from the vehicle itself, which often leads to severe injuries when accidents occur.
In Fresno, the risk is no different. With busy roads and high traffic, motorcycle riders face numerous challenges. Whether it’s distracted driving, poor road conditions, or speeding, there are many factors that can contribute to a motorcycle crash.
If you’ve been hurt in one of these accidents, it’s crucial to understand your legal options.
Do I Really Need a Lawyer After a Motorcycle Accident?
After a motorcycle accident, you might be tempted to handle the case on your own, especially if you think it is a clear-cut situation. However, working with an experienced Fresno motorcycle accident attorney can be incredibly beneficial, as they understand the complexities of California law and how it applies to motorcycle accidents.
Here’s why hiring a lawyer is crucial:
Determining Fault in a Motorcycle Accident
One of the most challenging aspects of any motorcycle accident case is determining who is at fault. While it may seem clear that the other driver caused the crash, there are often multiple factors that can contribute to the accident. If the insurance company or other party is able to argue that you were at fault in some way, it could drastically reduce or eliminate your compensation.
An experienced attorney can help gather evidence, such as traffic camera footage, witness testimonies, and expert analysis, to build a strong case and protect your interests. They can also help challenge any unfair claims that you were partially at fault.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are notorious for offering low settlements in personal injury cases, especially when they know you don’t have legal representation. They often try to minimize the amount they pay out in order to maximize their profit.
A lawyer can negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive a fair settlement that covers all your economic and non-economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, or if the other party is uninsured or underinsured, your lawyer can help you take legal action.
In California, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury under the statute of limitations. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will make sure you don’t miss important deadlines and will file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf.
California Law and Motorcycle Accidents
California has specific laws that can impact your motorcycle accident claim. Understanding these laws can help you navigate the legal process.
Helmet Law in California
California requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear a helmet. Under California Vehicle Code § 27803, failure to wear a helmet can result in fines and citations. While wearing a helmet is essential for safety, it’s also a key point in personal injury cases.
If you were injured and were not wearing a helmet, the other party might argue that your injuries would have been less severe if you had followed the law.
However, even if you weren’t wearing a helmet, you can still file a claim for damages. California’s comparative fault rule allows you to recover compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident.
Lane Splitting Law
California is one of the few states that permits lane splitting, where a motorcyclist rides between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. While this practice is legal, it can still be dangerous, and accidents may occur.
If you were involved in an accident while lane splitting, it’s essential to work with a lawyer who understands the intricacies of the law. A lawyer can determine if lane splitting contributed to your crash and help you pursue compensation if the other party was at fault.
How a Lawyer Can Help Maximize Your Compensation
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. In addition to dealing with your injuries, you may be struggling with mounting medical bills, lost wages from missed work, and emotional distress.
A personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation for the following:
- Medical Expenses: Including hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time off work and the impact the injury has had on your ability to earn an income.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and a diminished quality of life.
- Property Damage: Compensation for damage to your motorcycle and personal property.
A lawyer can help guide you and identify issues you may not be aware of.
Protect Your Rights After a Motorcycle Accident in Fresno
Motorcycle accidents can have life-altering consequences, and navigating the legal system without the help of a skilled attorney can be overwhelming. Hiring a lawyer after a motorcycle accident in Fresno ensures that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. With the right attorney by your side, you can focus on healing while they handle the legal complexities of your case.
Remember, the sooner you act, the better your chances of securing the compensation you deserve. Contact a personal injury lawyer today to discuss your motorcycle accident claim in Fresno and get the support you need to move forward.
Visit Our Personal Injury Law Firm in Fresno, CA
Carter Law Group
2445 Capitol St #105, Fresno, CA 93721, United States
(559) 485-1212
