Motorcycle Accidents in Tracy
California is considered one of the most dangerous states for motorcycle riders, and the city of Tracy is no exception. Congestion on Interstate 205 and Interstate 580, as well as inattentive drivers, often place bikers at risk of injury or death. In 2016, there were 19 motorcycle accidents involving injury or fatality in Tracy, according to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). Despite statewide efforts on motorcycle safety, catastrophic accidents continue to happen on the road. If you find yourself involved in one caused by a negligent driver, it is critical to know how the accident claims process works to ensure you are fully compensated for your losses.
What Are the Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
When a rider is involved in a motorcycle accident, he or she may suffer a wide array of serious injuries. Some of the most commonly sustained motorcycle accident injuries include bone fractures, spinal cord trauma, traumatic brain injuries, and wrongful death in some extreme cases. Even a moderate injury may be incredibly overwhelming and painful. A biker should not have to deal with the emotional, physical, and financial consequences of a motorcycle accident caused by someone else.
Recoverable Damages for Motorcycle Accidents in Tracy
A motorcycle accident may come with overwhelming costs. A debilitating injury may require extensive rehabilitation and medical treatment. An injured motorcyclist may need to miss time at work to recover or attend medical appointments. Conversely, emotional trauma from the crash may also affect a biker’s ability to return to his or her daily routine. In such cases, an injured motorcycle rider may seek recourse through a personal injury claim for economic and noneconomic damages incurred. Economic damages compensate an injured person for the financial impact of a motorcycle accident, including past and future medical expenses and past and future wage loss. Noneconomic damages consider the intangible harms attributable to the crash. This includes disfigurement, loss of consortium, and pain and suffering. For a brief overview of the factors that may affect the value of a personal injury claim, watch the below video.
Who Pays in a Personal Injury Claim?
A negligent driver is financially responsible for any injuries and damages they cause to others. A personal injury claim for a motorcycle accident is generally covered by the insurance company of the at-fault driver. If the motorist responsible for the crash has little to no insurance, a biker may use their own insurance to cover their unpaid losses if they have uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. However, pursuing a claim with your insurance company may be frustrating and challenging. Insurers are focused on their bottom line and will do anything to limit what they pay for a personal injury case. When you have a Tracy personal injury lawyer at your side, an insurance company will not be able to use their manipulative tactics to diminish the value of your claim. An attorney can also help you navigate the claims process, identify your policy limits, and ensure that an insurance company extends a favorable settlement offer to you.
Is There a Statute of Limitations on Personal Injury Cases?
If you have been injured in a Tracy motorcycle accident, it is essential to act quickly. California law limits the amount of time you have to file a personal injury claim for damages incurred. You have two years from the date of your crash to bring a case. This is by the California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1. If you miss the deadline, you may lose your right to recover compensation for your losses. This is why it is essential to retain an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Tracy for your case. An experienced attorney can handle filing deadlines and negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf. This way, you can focus on recovering from your injuries without legal worry.
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Tracy
I’m Ed Smith, a Tracy motorcycle accident attorney. A motorcycle accident may change the lives of those involved in an instant. If someone else is at fault for a motorcycle crash, a rider may have the right to recover compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Tracy, CA, due to the negligence or recklessness of another, please call me at (209) 227-1931 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400. I am here to provide you with the free, friendly advice you need in your time of loss.
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You can learn more about our law office and how we have resolved past cases by visiting our Verdicts and Settlements page.
Photo Credit: By “SplitShire” via Pixabay
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