Walnut Creek Motorcycle Accidents
Our attorneys demand justice for you
Motorcycling in California has a long, rich history. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents happen here as well. And when they do, they often result in serious injuries or fatalities.
Motorcycle accidents are some of the deadliest types of accidents. Motorcyclists do not have the same protection and stability as people who drive automobiles. Accidents involving motorcycles can lead to severe, life-threatening injuries for motorcyclists.
If you were recently injured in a motorcycle accident in Northern California's Bay Area – including Lafayette, Clayton, Pleasant Hill, and surrounding communities – it's important to act quickly and discuss your legal rights with an experienced Bay Area motorcycle accident attorney. At Clancy & Diaz, LLP of Walnut Creek, Antioch, Pittsburg, and Benicia, we can help you file an insurance claim and aggressively seek compensation from anyone who may be at fault.
“Pete Clancy is a Pro. I am completely happy with Pete and his firm. I had a motorcycle injury case and he leveraged every angle of my case to produce excellent results. I definitely recommend this firm..” – M.T., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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FAQs About Walnut Creek Motorcycle Accidents
- What are important issues involving motorcycle accidents?
- Why are motorcycle accidents more serious than other traffic crashes?
- What can I do after my motorcycle accident?
- Should I contact the police after a Walnut Creek motorcycle accident?
- What are common causes of motorcycle accidents?
- What are common motorcycle accident injuries?
- What is dooring?
- What do I say to the insurance company after a motorcycle accident?
- How much is my motorcycle accident worth?
- What can I be compensated for after my motorcycle accident?
- How much time do I have to take legal action after my California motorcycle accident?
- What can I do if I lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash?
- Will my motorcycle accident case go to court?
- Should I hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
What are important issues involving motorcycle accidents?
There are so many issues you'll likely need to address after your motorcycle accident. Our law firm has extensive experience with a wide range of issues involving motorcycle accidents in Northern California. Below, you can find links to pages on our website that have more information about some of the most important issues affecting people involved in motorcycle accidents:
- Motorcycle Safety
- Motorcycle Crashes at Intersections
- Insurance Companies and Motorcycle Accidents
- Head and Brain Injuries
- Back and Neck Injuries
- Loss of Limbs
Whatever the circumstances of your motorcycle accident, no matter how complicated or straightforward your crash might seem, we can help you every step of the way.
Why are motorcycle accidents more serious than other traffic crashes?
There are several issues that make motorcycle accidents more serious and often more complicated or difficult to deal with:
- The difference in size between a car and motorcycle make the motorcycle and rider more susceptible to damage and serious injury.
- The fact that the motorcyclist has only the protection of a helmet and protective clothing makes catastrophic injury more likely, even in a relatively minor or low-speed collision.
- If a motorcycle has aftermarket parts, it can be difficult to ascertain the exact value of damage caused in the accident and therefore what it would cost to repair this damage or replace the bike entirely.
Involvement in a motorcycle accident may leave you in a tough predicament. In addition to dealing with physical and emotional trauma caused by the collision, you may also be dealing with an insurance adjuster. The adjuster may not take your case seriously, may try to avoid paying your claim or may offer you a settlement that simply will not cover all the losses caused by the accident.
If you're faced with such a situation, being represented by a Bay Area motorcycle accident lawyer can be critical to winning your case. A lawyer can work to represent your interests and your legal rights in any dealings with the insurance company, the other driver involved in the accident, law enforcement and any other interested parties. While you focus on recovering, your attorney can focus on securing the money you need to rebuild and move on. That's how we work. And that's why we win.
What can I do after my motorcycle accident?
When people get in motorcycle accidents, they often don't know what to do or how to respond. Sometimes individuals are so shaken up by the actual accident that they completely forget about the important steps that need to be taken in days after the accident occurred.
These important steps are:
- Remain at the scene
- Call 911 to report the accident
- Exchange driver and insurance information
- Render aid to anyone in need
- Take pictures and notes referencing the circumstances of the accident and injuries you suffered
- Get the contact information of any witnesses present
- Report the accident to your insurance company
- Do not talk to the other driver's insurance company, as they may only be seeking a statement that would limit their client's responsibility for causing the accident
Should I contact the police after a Walnut Creek motorcycle accident?
Yes, always contact the police after a motorcycle crash. An official police report provides critical documentation of the accident, including witness statements, diagrams of the scene, and the officer’s initial findings. This report – officially known as the CHP 555 Traffic Collision Report in California – can play a key role in establishing fault and supporting your motorcycle accident claim later. Even if the crash seems minor, it’s still worth getting law enforcement involved.
What are common causes of motorcycle accidents?
Motorcycle accidents are often caused by negligent or careless behavior from other drivers. Some of the most common causes include:
- Left-turn accidents: When drivers fail to yield and turn in front of oncoming motorcycles.
- Lane changes: Drivers may not see a motorcycle in their blind spot when changing lanes.
- Distracted driving: Texting, eating, or other distractions can lead to drivers missing smaller vehicles like motorcycles.
- Speeding: Higher speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of crashes.
- Following too closely: Tailgating can result in rear-end collisions, which are especially dangerous for riders.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol or drug use can impair judgment and reaction times.
What are common motorcycle accident injuries?
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious and sometimes life-threatening injuries. Common examples include:
- Road rash: Skin abrasions caused by sliding on pavement, which can lead to infection or permanent scarring.
- Broken bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are especially vulnerable to bone fractures in a crash.
- Head injuries: Concussions or traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), even when wearing a helmet.
- Spinal cord injuries: These can cause long-term disability or paralysis.
- Internal injuries: Damage to internal organs may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening.
- Amputations: Severe crush injuries may require surgical amputation.
- Biker’s arm: Nerve damage in the upper arm caused by landing on or bracing with the arm during a crash, which can lead to weakness, numbness, or even paralysis in the limb.
What is dooring?
Dooring is a type of motorcycle accident that occurs when a driver or passenger of a parked car opens the car door into the path of a moving motorcycle. This sudden and unexpected obstacle can cause the rider to crash into the door or swerve into traffic, leading to serious injuries. Dooring is especially dangerous in urban areas like Walnut Creek, where cars often park along busy streets.
What do I say to the insurance company after a motorcycle accident?
Be very cautious when speaking with an insurance company after your motorcycle accident. They’re not on your side — their goal is to minimize payouts. Stick to the basic facts: confirm the date, time, and location of the crash. Do not give a recorded statement, speculate about fault, or discuss your injuries in detail. Instead, tell them you’re in the process of seeking medical care and legal representation. Keep your sentences short. Don’t say anything that could later be used to reduce or deny your motorcycle accident claim. Then contact a motorcycle accident attorney who can speak to insurance companies on your behalf and protect your claim. If you are nervous about speaking with an insurance company representative, you don’t have to say anything. You can reach out to an attorney first, but make sure to report the accident regardless.
How much is my motorcycle accident worth?
The value of a motorcycle accident case depends on many different factors, including the severity of your injuries, the expenses associated with your crash, the impact on your daily life, and the amount of insurance coverage available. Cases involving long-term disability, lost earning capacity, or extensive medical treatment are typically worth more. An experienced Walnut Creek motorcycle accident attorney can help evaluate your case and determine what fair compensation might look like in your specific situation.
What can I be compensated for after my motorcycle accident?
If another party caused your crash, you may be eligible to recover compensation for a wide range of damages, the legal term for compensation for financial losses. Damages for motorcycle accidents often include money for:
- Medical bills: Hospital stays, surgeries, follow-up visits, physical therapy, prescriptions.
- Lost income: Both current lost wages and future earnings if you’re unable to return to work.
- Pain and suffering: Physical pain, emotional trauma, and mental distress.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If your injuries prevent you from doing the things you once enjoyed.
- Property damage: Repair or replacement of your motorcycle and other personal belongings.
How much time do I have to take legal action after my California motorcycle accident?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the motorcycle accident. But just because you have that much time does not mean you should wait to take legal action. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better your chances of preserving evidence and building a strong legal case.
What can I do if I lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash?
Losing someone in a motorcycle accident is devastating – and no amount of money can replace that loss. But a wrongful death claim can help ease the financial burden that often follows such a tragedy. You may be able to recover compensation for funeral expenses, lost future income, medical bills, and the emotional loss of your loved one’s companionship and support. Your lawyer can walk you through your legal options and stand by your side throughout the process.
Will my motorcycle accident case go to court?
Most motorcycle accident claims are resolved through settlements without going to trial. However, if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation or disputes liability, taking your case to court may be necessary. A strong attorney can prepare your case for trial from day one — and be ready to fight for your rights in court if that’s what it takes to secure justice.
Should I hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
Handling a motorcycle accident claim on your own can be incredibly difficult, especially when you’re injured and trying to recover. A lawyer can take that burden off your shoulders by handling all the paperwork, negotiating with insurers, and making sure your case is properly valued. They can also push back against unfair bias against motorcyclists and make sure you’re treated fairly throughout the process. With legal support, you can focus on your recovery while someone fights for the compensation you rightfully deserve.
No recovery, no fee
Our attorneys stand by our work in the courtroom. We believe that if we do not win your case, then you should not have to pay. As a result, we work on a contingency fee basis for all motorcycle accident cases. We will exhaust every avenue to win your case and get you the compensation that you deserve.
For a free review of your case, contact a Walnut Creek motorcycle accident attorney at Clancy & Diaz, LLP today. We have offices in Walnut Creek, Antioch, Pittsburg, and Benicia and serve clients throughout the Bay Area.