There is very limited protection between a motorcyclist and other vehicles or the road in a crash. Additionally, the motorcycle’s size and weight compared to other vehicles often place riders at a disadvantage in a collision.
Because of this, motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries and, in some cases, fatalities. When not fatal, these injuries may permanently change the lives of the victim and their family.
Many motorcycle accident victims require ongoing medical treatment or assistance with daily activities. The expense of this care, combined with time away from work, can create significant financial strain.
If you have been injured, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your losses. Speaking with an experienced San Bernardino motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your legal options.
Jacoby & Meyers accident lawyers have decades of experience representing motorcycle accident victims throughout California.
Our San Bernardino personal injury lawyers will listen to you, answer your questions, explain your rights, and help you make informed decisions. If we represent you, we will advocate for your rights and pursue compensation supported by the documented impact of your injuries.
Contact us at (909) 245-8920 or complete the short form on our contact page to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
Compensation in a San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident Case
Some of the possible types of compensation you may be entitled to could include:
- Economic damages such as current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and property damages. These damages are generally supported by receipts, invoices, or other documentation and are more readily calculated.
- Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, mental distress, loss of consortium, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages are more subjective and may vary depending on the facts of the case.
- Punitive damages may be awarded only in cases where clear and convincing evidence shows that the defendant’s actions involved fraud, malice, or oppression. For this reason, punitive damages are uncommon.
Factors that may affect the type and amount of compensation available include:
- The type and extent of your injuries
- Applicable insurance policy limits
- The availability and strength of supporting evidence
- The identification of all potentially responsible parties
Evidence is important in any injury claim. Your attorney may rely on witness testimony, expert analysis, and physical evidence to support your case.
The motorcycle accident attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers investigate accidents to identify possible causes, responsible parties, and sources of recovery. We work to gather evidence that supports your claim.
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Tactics That May Be Used by Insurance Companies After a San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident
Insurance companies are businesses that evaluate claims and manage financial exposure. In motorcycle accident claims, insurers may dispute liability or the value of damages.
To do this, insurance companies may use various tactics in motorcycle accident claims.
One way they try to avoid or limit paying a claim is to shift blame to the motorcyclist. They may portray the motorcycle rider as reckless or taking unsafe risks.
They may also have long hold times when you call or disconnect calls. Similarly, it may be difficult to reach a live person and you may only be able to communicate through an automated system.
They may send complicated notices or other communications that are difficult to understand.
Another tactic used by some insurance companies is to extend the claims process. They may take a long time to respond to your claim, which can increase financial pressure if medical bills are accumulating and you are unable to work.
These tactics can increase the likelihood that a motorcycle accident victim accepts a settlement offer that may not fully reflect the documented value of the claim.
Consulting with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you evaluate settlement offers and respond to insurance company tactics appropriately.
The San Bernardino accident attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers have more than five decades of experience representing motorcycle accident victims and communicating with insurance companies.
Before accepting any settlement, consider reviewing your legal options with an attorney.
What To Do After a San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident
Getting the medical care you need should be your first priority after an accident. However, if you are able, there are a few steps you can take at the accident scene and afterward to protect your health and your claim.
Some of those actions include:
- Call 911 or the local police to report the accident and request emergency assistance.
- Get a complete medical evaluation. Some injuries do not show symptoms right away but can later result in ongoing pain or mobility issues.
- Take photos or video footage of the accident scene and any visible injuries if it is safe to do so.
- Document everything you can remember about the accident.
- Get the contact information of all parties and potential witnesses.
- Do not admit fault or apologize.
- Be cautious about social media activity. Insurance companies may review public posts during the claims process.
- Follow up with all medical appointments and recommended treatment.
- Seek the advice and representation of an experienced San Bernardino motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible.
Contact a San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured in a San Bernardino motorcycle accidentt, you may wish to speak with an attorney.
Insurance companies may dispute liability or the value of your claim. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help evaluate your case and explain your legal options.
At Jacoby & Meyers, we have represented motorcycle accident victims in California for more than 50 years and have secured more than $2 billion in settlements and verdicts statewide.*
Call us at (909) 245-8920 or visit our contact page to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.
*Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.