Motorcycle riding is an integral part of life in California, offering both a means of transportation and a sense of freedom. However, the thrill of the ride comes with risks, as motorcycle accidents are a common occurrence on California’s roads. In Fresno, these risks are ever-present due to a mix of urban and rural roadways.
At Wilshire Law Firm, we understand the unique challenges faced by motorcyclists and are committed to helping those involved in motorcycle accidents. Our qualified motorcycle accident lawyers in Fresno are dedicated to securing justice and rightful compensation for our clients.
Table of contents
Why Choose Our Fresno Motorcycle Accident Lawyers?
Wilshire Law Firm is the right choice for motorcycle accident victims in Fresno. We have 15 years of experience under our belts in handling motorcycle accident claims, and this experience has given us a deep understanding of what it takes to win these types of cases.
We recognize that motorcycle accidents often result from the negligence of other drivers and are committed to holding them accountable.
When you hire Wilshire Law Firm, you get a team of 500+ legal professionals who are advocating for justice on your behalf. We have recovered a staggering $1+ billion for our clients, and we recently recovered $18.5 million in a trial judgment in a spinal and groin injury case resulting from a motorcycle accident.
These case results demonstrate our experience and dedication to ensuring rightful compensation for our clients.
Our Fresno office is strategically located for easy accessibility to our clients. Situated near the Fresno County Public Library, Veterans Memorial Museum, and Courthouse Park, our office at 1221 North Van Ness Ave Suite 301, Fresno, CA 93704, provides a convenient and welcoming environment for clients to discuss their cases with our team of Fresno motorcycle accident lawyers.
Fresno Motorcycle Accident Compensation
Understanding and recovering the full range of compensation available to you after a motorcycle accident is one of the first steps in your legal journey after a motorcycle accident in Fresno.
At Wilshire Law Firm, our Fresno motorcycle accident lawyers take the time to make sure that every aspect of your case is assessed thoroughly to secure comprehensive compensation. Here is a detailed breakdown of the types of compensation available in motorcycle accident cases and how our firm works to prove and recover each type.
Medical Bills
Medical expenses form a significant portion of most motorcycle accident claims. This compensation covers all medical treatments related to your accident, including emergency services, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and any ongoing medical care.
Proving these costs requires collecting all relevant medical records, bills, and expert testimonies on future medical needs. Our firm works closely with medical professionals to document your injuries and treatment comprehensively, ensuring that your current and future medical expenses are fully accounted for in your claim.
Lost Wages and Lost Earning Capacity
If your injuries have prevented you from working, you might be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This includes the income you’ve lost from being unable to work since the accident and potential future earnings if your injuries impact your ability to work long-term.
We work with economic experts to calculate these losses accurately, including examining your past earnings, job prospects, and the potential impact of your injuries on your future earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
This type of compensation addresses the physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the accident. Unlike medical bills or lost wages, pain and suffering damages are more subjective and require a nuanced approach to quantify. Our attorneys are skilled in conveying the extent of your pain and suffering through personal testimony, psychological evaluations, and illustrating how your life has changed post-accident.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the defendant’s actions were particularly reckless or egregious, punitive damages might be awarded. These damages punish the wrongdoer with the goal of deterring similar conduct in the future.
Establishing a claim for punitive damages involves proving that the defendant’s behavior was grossly negligent or intentional. We have 15 years of experience in identifying cases where punitive damages are applicable and presenting compelling arguments to justify them.
Property Damage
Compensation for property damage typically covers the repair or replacement of your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident. We assist in gathering repair estimates, valuation reports, and evidence of the property’s condition before the accident to ensure you receive fair compensation for these losses.
How Our Firm Proves and Recovers Compensation
Our approach to establishing and recovering these types of compensation includes:
- Gathering Comprehensive Evidence: We collect all necessary evidence, including medical records, employment records, and witness statements, to build a strong foundation for your claim.
- Collaborating with Experts: We work with medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and financial analysts to provide expert testimony and insights that substantiate your claims.
- Skillful Negotiations: Our attorneys leverage their negotiation skills to ensure insurance companies offer fair settlements that reflect the true extent of your losses.
- Litigation Readiness: If negotiations do not yield a fair settlement, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial, where our experienced trial attorneys will advocate vigorously on your behalf.
We understand what it takes to win motorcycle accident cases at Wilshire Law Firm. Our Fresno motorcycle accident lawyers make sure every aspect of your compensation is thoroughly addressed, giving you the support and peace of mind you need to focus on your recovery. Do not hesitate to reach out to us if you need legal assistance for your motorcycle accident claim.
Where Can Motorcycle Accidents Happen in Fresno?
In Fresno, based on the city’s traffic patterns and road characteristics, there are a few localities and roads where motorcycle accidents are more likely to occur.
Based on our experience in the area, here are some likely motorcycle accident hotspots in Fresno, CA:
- Major Intersections: Busy intersections in Fresno, such as those along Blackstone Avenue, Shaw Avenue, and Cedar Avenue, are likely hotspots. These areas often experience heavy traffic and complex driving patterns, increasing the risk of accidents.
- High-Traffic Commercial Areas: Areas with high commercial activity, such as near the River Park Shopping Center or along Kings Canyon Road, where traffic density is high, could see more frequent motorcycle accidents.
- Freeways and Highways: Sections of major freeways running through or near Fresno, like State Route 99 and State Route 41, are potential sites for severe motorcycle accidents due to higher speeds and increased vehicle interactions.
- Downtown Fresno: The downtown area, with its mix of business, entertainment, and dining establishments, may have a higher incidence of motorcycle accidents, especially during evenings and weekends.
- Near Educational Institutions: Roads near Fresno State University or other large educational institutions may see more motorcycle traffic and potentially a higher rate of accidents, especially during school sessions.
- Residential Areas with Heavy Commuter Traffic: Residential areas that serve as major commuter routes, such as those near North Fresno, may also be common locations for motorcycle accidents during rush hours.
- Rural Roads Surrounding Fresno: The rural roads around Fresno, which have different traffic patterns than those closer to the city and visibility issues at night, can also be common areas for motorcycle accidents.
Our Focus on Fresno Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Fresno present unique challenges and dangers. At Wilshire Law Firm, our 15 years of experience have allowed us to cover the full spectrum of these accidents.
Our familiarity with motorcycle accidents throughout California allows us to provide legal solutions that are uniquely tailored to each individual client who comes into our office.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents
Here’s an in-depth look at some types of motorcycle accidents we handle in Fresno and how our firm can assist with each:
- Left-Turn Accidents: These occur when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of a motorcyclist, often due to misjudging the motorcycle’s speed or not noticing it at all. We investigate these accidents by analyzing traffic patterns, signals, and witness statements to establish the other party’s liability.
- Rear-End Collisions: Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in rear-end collisions. These often happen in heavy traffic or when drivers are distracted. Our approach includes gathering evidence like traffic camera footage and vehicle damage reports to demonstrate the negligence of the at-fault driver.
- Lane-Splitting Incidents: While legal in California, lane-splitting can lead to accidents, often because drivers fail to notice or accommodate motorcyclists. We use road layout, traffic conditions, and driver behavior to build a case that supports the motorcyclist’s right to lane-split safely.
- Head-On and T-Bone Collisions: These severe accidents typically occur at intersections and can result from a driver running a red light or failing to yield. Our firm conducts thorough accident reconstructions and leverages traffic data to establish fault.
Types of Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, which are often more devastating due to the unprotected nature of motorcyclists.
A few of the handful of injuries we’ve seen stemming from motorcycle injuries across the state of California include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): TBIs can have lifelong consequences. We collaborate with medical experts to assess the full impact of these injuries on our clients’ lives, ensuring comprehensive compensation that covers long-term care and rehabilitation.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can result in paralysis and require significant medical treatment and lifestyle adjustments. Our team of 500+ legal professionals works to secure compensation that addresses both immediate medical needs and future care requirements, including adaptive technologies and home modifications.
- Broken Bones: Often requiring surgery and extensive physical therapy, broken bones can lead to expensive medical bills and time off work. We make sure that these costs, along with any long-term impacts on your physical capabilities, are fully accounted for in your claim.
- Road Rash: While seemingly less severe, road rash can lead to serious infections and require skin grafts. Our firm seeks compensation for all medical treatments related to these injuries, as well as compensation for any resultant scarring or disfigurement.
- Fatalities: In the most tragic cases, motorcycle accidents can be fatal. We provide compassionate legal support to families and help them pursue wrongful death claims that cover funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages resulting from their loss.
How We Help with Each Case
Our approach to motorcycle accidents in Fresno involves:
- A Personalized Case Evaluation: Our first step is offering you a free consultation where we go over the unique aspects of the accident and how it has affected your life.
- Gathering Evidence: We utilize accident reports, medical records, and expert testimonies to build a strong case.
- Effective Negotiation: We negotiate skillfully with insurance companies to ensure our clients receive fair compensation.
- Litigation: When necessary, we take cases to court to fight for our clients’ rights.
At Wilshire Law Firm, our Fresno motorcycle accident lawyers understand the devastating impact an accident can have on your life. Our team is committed to providing the legal support you need during these challenging times and securing the compensation you deserve.
Fighting the Insurance Company
The insurance companies often present our clients with challenges after a motorcycle accident. We overcome these challenges with our unique blend of legal knowledge and strategic negotiation techniques.
At Wilshire Law Firm, we are intimately familiar with the tactics insurance companies use to minimize payouts and have developed effective methods to counter these strategies. Here’s a brief look at common insurance company tactics and how our firm successfully fights against these challenges.
Disputing Liability
Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame to the motorcyclist, arguing that they were at fault or partially at fault for the accident.
In response, our Fresno motorcycle accident lawyers conduct thorough investigations, gather evidence from the accident scene, consult accident reconstruction experts, and use witness statements to firmly establish liability on the part of the other driver.
Downplaying Your Injuries
Insurers frequently try to minimize the severity of injuries. They do this in order to reduce the amount they pay out.
Our firm works with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injuries. We compile comprehensive medical reports, expert opinions, and ongoing treatment plans to demonstrate the true severity of your injuries.
Quick, Lowball Settlement Offers
Insurance companies often offer quick settlements that are far lower than what the victim deserves, hoping they will accept out of financial desperation or lack of understanding of their claim’s true value.
We provide experienced counsel to our clients on the fair value of their claims. We negotiate aggressively with the insurance companies, using our detailed calculations of your damages, including current and future medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, to secure a fair settlement.
Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring
Some insurers resort to monitoring the claimant’s activities online, hoping to find evidence that contradicts the claim, such as participating in activities that your injuries should prohibit.
In response, we advise our clients on best practices for social media and public behavior while a claim is ongoing and challenge any surveillance findings that are taken out of context or misleading.
Burdening You With Complex Paperwork and Legal Jargon
Insurers may use complicated legal language and extensive paperwork to confuse claimants and make it difficult to understand the claims process. Our legal team simplifies this process for you. We handle all paperwork and explain legal terms in understandable language so you know your rights and the implications of any documents you are asked to sign.
Delaying in Claim Processing
Delays in claim processing are a common strategy to pressure claimants into accepting lower settlements. We keep constant pressure on the insurance companies to expedite the processing of your claim. Our approach includes regular follow-ups and, if necessary, taking legal action to prevent unreasonable delays.
How Our Fresno Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Help You Secure Fair Compensation
Our approach to fighting these tactics and securing fair compensation involves a combination of skilled negotiation, thorough preparation, and aggressive advocacy.
Our recent $18.5 million trial recovery for one of our clients who was injured in a motorcycle accident shows that we are prepared to take your case to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation.
Our experienced trial attorneys are skilled at presenting compelling cases in court to ensure that our clients receive the full compensation they are entitled to.
At Wilshire Law Firm, we understand insurance companies’ tactics and have the experience and resources to counteract them effectively. Our commitment is to protect your rights and secure the compensation you rightfully deserve after a motorcycle accident.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Fresno
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, it’s now time to take specific steps to support your case. This includes obtaining a police report, keeping a detailed record of your injuries and treatment, and gathering any witness statements.
Bringing this information to our firm will significantly bolster your case. Of course, our team will help you gather all of this documentation. We guide you through each step of the legal process to build a strong claim on your behalf.
At Wilshire Law Firm, our Fresno personal injury lawyers understand the unique challenges faced by motorcyclists on Fresno’s roads. Our $1 billion in total recoveries for our clients shows how dedicated we are to providing top-notch legal assistance and helping you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.
Contact us online or call (559) 396-3826 for your free consultation, and let our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys help you take the next steps.
Our Fresno Office Location
Wilshire Law Firm
1221 Van Ness Avenue Ste 301
Fresno, CA 93721
Tel: (559) 396-3826
