Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Fresno Fighting for your Compensation
Motorcycle riders face real danger on California’s streets and highways. The most recent statistics available tell us that 414 people died in motorcycle accidents in our state in 2011, and thousands more were seriously injured. Our team of knowledgeable Fresno personal injury lawyers at Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian are committed to the rights of motorcyclists to share the road equally with other drivers. When the negligent driver of a bus, truck, or automobile injures a motorcyclist, we hold that driver accountable and demand fair and full compensation for the victim. If you get injured in a motorcycle crash, now or even in the future, call our motorcycle accident lawyers at once and obtain the legal help you need so you can collect the compensation you deserve.
THERE IS A HIGHER RISK OF MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS
With over 75 years of combined team experience representing accident victims, the motorcycle accident attorneys at Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian know that motorcyclists and their passengers are more vulnerable than drivers and passengers inside cars and trucks. Motorcycles obviously lack safety devices like air bags and seat belts, so there’s a much higher risk of catastrophic injuries: amputations, brain damage, spinal cord injuries, and other serious, longer, and disabling damage.
WHEN THE GOVERNMENT IS RESPONSIBLE
State and county governments are charged with keeping the streets safe, clearing debris, and repairing potholes, cracked pavement, and traffic signs and signals. When a government agency may be responsible for a motorcycle-related injury, it’s imperative to contact a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer at once; a claim against a government agency requires more steps and earlier deadlines. If a defective motorcycle or auto part plays any role in your accident, it’s possible the manufacturer can also be pursued for damages. If you’re injured in any motorcycle crash, contact Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian as quickly as possible. We are dedicated to recovering the maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and additional damages.
What causes motorcycle accidents?
Motorcycles, however, may be dangerous in a variety of situations. In California, these are the top causes of motorcycle accidents and injuries:
1. Vehicles turning left: When a motorist turns in the path of a motorcyclist, it’s the most dangerous condition that a motorcyclist faces. Over forty percent of motorcycle-auto collisions involve either a motorcyclist or the other motorist making a left turn.
2. Lack of visibility: If a driver’s vision is impaired by parked cars, buildings, or other obstacles, and that driver rolls slowly and blindly into traffic, it can be disastrous for an oncoming motorcyclist.
3. Obstacles and debris: Oil on the road, potholes, and other debris pose genuine dangers for motorcyclists.
4. Lack of experience: It takes a lot of hours to become skilled at riding a motorcycle. Until a motorcyclist has abundant experience, he or she should avoid busy highways and streets. Taking a motorcycle safety class is never a bad idea.
5. Negligent driving: Negligence includes speeding, distracted driving, and intoxicated driving. Negligence causes most traffic-related injuries, but motorcyclists tend to suffer catastrophic injuries because they lack most of the protections that other vehicles provide.
What should I do if I’m involved in a motorcycle accident?
If you are in a motorcycle accident, seek medical attention first. If you aren’t taken to a hospital or examined by a healthcare professional at the accident site, have a medical exam within twenty-four hours of any traffic accident.
If you’ve suffered a hard-to-detect or latent injury, a thorough medical examination will uncover it. An exam also creates medical records you will need if you take legal action later. Make and keep copies of any medical, police, or insurance reports and documents pertaining to the crash.
Take photos of the damage to the vehicles and your own visible injuries. Photos are powerful evidence that can make the difference in a personal injury case. If there were eyewitnesses, try to get their names and a way to contact them. Your attorney may need their statements.
Do not admit fault, and don’t accept a settlement offer from the other driver or that driver’s insurance company before you’ve met with a good personal injury lawyer. Don’t even speak to an insurance adjuster; your attorney will do all of the talking and negotiating on your behalf.
How much compensation is possible for a motorcycle accident?
The driver who is at fault will need to have their automobile policy cover the accident, just as if you were in a car instead of on your motorcycle.
When should I hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
It’s important to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. Be sure not to sign any papers or even give a statement to the driver’s insurance company who is at fault, without first speaking to an attorney. Keep in mind it’s free to speak to an attorney. It’s fine to sign papers after talking to a lawyer. It’s never in your best interest to sign papers without first knowing your rights. Any errors or mistakes that you make in a statement could and will most likely be used against you in any subsequent settlement negotiations or even a lawsuit.
Why do I need a motorcycle accident lawyer?
Having a lawyer for a motorcycle accident offers peace of mind. It’s beneficial to have someone cover all the legal areas so you can focus on recovering physically and mentally. Making sure you are respected during the process of resolving your case.
Questions to ask a motorcycle accident lawyer
Do you ride a motorcycle? How often? When was the last time? Do you have any concerns about motorcycle drivers? How many motorcycle cases have you handled?
Let Our Motorcycle Attorneys Assist You
We are experienced motorcycle accident lawyers who work flexible hours to ensure we match our schedule to your scheduling needs. We also promptly return phone calls.. Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian serves clients in Fresno, Madera, Tulare, Kingsburg, and Hanford counties. Our team speaks French and Spanish, so don’t let a language barrier concern stop you from getting the legal help you need. Contact Tomassian, Pimentel & Shapazian today at 559-545-0383 or contact us online to arrange an initial consultation.
