Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Attorney

After a motorcycle crash, you face a unique set of challenges beyond your physical recovery. Dealing with insurers and mounting medical bills can feel like a full-time job you never asked for. A Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyer can manage these pressures and pursue the compensation you need to move forward. At the Law Offices of Mickey Fine, we provide the clarity and direction needed to secure your recovery. One phone call is all it takes to shift that burden off your shoulders. Contact us at (661) 333-3333 to find out how we can help.

Bakersfield Motorcycle Accidents Guide show

Key Takeaways

California’s lane-splitting laws are nuanced and can heavily influence the outcome of your motorcycle injury claim.
Evidence like photos of the crash scene, witness contact information, and your damaged gear can strengthen your case.
Insurance companies often use specific tactics to diminish the value of motorcycle accident claims.
You may be able to recover compensation for medical costs, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
There is a limited time to file a personal injury claim in California

Why Choose the Law Offices of Mickey Fine for Your Claim

Overturned motorcycle on the road after an accident with an ambulance in the background, symbolizing motorcycle injury and emergency response.

When you choose a legal representative, you select a partner for your recovery. Our firm is dedicated to helping Bakersfield bikers. We believe effective representation starts with a clear strategy and a direct approach to achieving your goals.

We Know Kern County

Our attorneys know the roads you drive daily, from the Westside Parkway to the curves along the Kern River Canyon. We’re familiar with the specific traffic patterns near Valley Plaza Mall and the common congestion spots on Rosedale Highway. Our local knowledge provides a distinct advantage when investigating crashes and communicating with local authorities.

We Pinpoint All Avenues for Compensation

Our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers know how to formulate a comprehensive valuation of your claim. Your injuries may have wide-ranging effects on your life, many of which may not be immediately obvious. We go beyond the initial hospital bills to identify every area of loss. We trace the full impact of your injuries, from future medical needs and rehabilitation costs to lost earning capacity and the cost of replacing your specialized riding gear.

A Direct Strategy for Your Claim

We don’t use a one-size-fits-all approach. Your case is unique, and we tailor our legal strategy to your specific circumstances and objectives. We listen to you, analyze the evidence, and then create a clear, direct plan of action. Call the Law Offices of Mickey Fine at (661) 333-3333 to discuss how we can help.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Our Community

Motorcycle riders face dangers that drivers of passenger cars do not. Many collisions happen because other motorists fail to see motorcycles or fail to appreciate their speed and maneuverability. These are among the leading causes of motorcycle accident cases that leave riders at greater risk on the road. Your awareness as a rider may be high, but you cannot control the actions of others on the road. Common scenarios we see leading to a motorcycle wreck in Kern County include:

Unsafe Lane Changes: A driver changes lanes without checking their blind spot and collides with a motorcyclist already in that lane.
Left-Turn Collisions: A car turns left at an intersection directly into the path of an oncoming motorcycle.
Dooring Incidents: A person in a parked car opens their door into the path of a rider, often in Downtown Bakersfield areas or neighborhoods like Seven Oaks.
Sudden Stops: A driver brakes abruptly, causing a rear-end collision with a motorcyclist who has less time and distance to stop safely.
Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, or unsafe road conditions can cause a rider to lose control.

We investigate the crash scene, interview witnesses, and collect all available evidence. A thorough investigation allows us to isolate the factors that led to the collision and establish who is at fault for the motorcycle crash.

Valuing Your Bakersfield Motorcycle Injury Claim

Determining the full value of your claim requires a detailed analysis of all your losses, both current and future. You have one opportunity to get the compensation you need, so you need an accurate account of every single loss related to the accident. A comprehensive claim seeks to recover all of your losses, which may include:

Current Medical Bills: This covers every expense from the moment of the crash, including the ambulance ride, emergency room treatment, hospital stays, and any surgeries you require.
Future Medical Care: This compensates you for the long-term recovery costs, such as ongoing physical therapy, future surgeries, necessary prescription medications, or permanent medical equipment.
Lost Wages: You may recover the income you lost from being unable to work while healing from your injuries.
Diminished Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or impact your ability to earn the same income in the future, you may seek compensation for this long-term financial loss.
Property Damage: This includes the full cost to repair your motorcycle to its pre-accident condition or replace it if it was totaled. Your claim also covers the cost of any damaged gear, such as your helmet, leathers, and boots.

Finally, your claim should account for the non-economic impacts of your injuries. Motorcycle Laws in California allows you to pursue compensation for pain, suffering, and emotional distress, such as PTSD, that result from the physical injuries you sustained in the crash. A Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyer can document and demonstrate how the collision has diminished your quality of life..

Lane Splitting Accidents in Bakersfield

Motorcyclist riding on a rural road in Bucks County, surrounded by fields and trees, symbolizing motorcycle travel and road safety.

California is one of the few states that legally permits lane splitting. This is the practice of a motorcyclist riding between lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. While legal, it introduces complex questions of fault when an accident happens. Insurance adjusters for the other driver may immediately try to blame you for the accident simply because you were lane splitting. They might argue that you were riding unsafely or too fast for the traffic conditions. However, the law focuses on whether your actions were safe and prudent at the time of the collision, and a lawyer’s investigation can show what actually happened. We can use evidence to show your speed, the flow of traffic, and whether the other driver caused the crash. Did the driver change lanes without signaling? Were they distracted by a cell phone? These factors are just as relevant in a lane splitting case as in any other type of collision. Our Bakersfield motorcycle crash attorneys know how to present the facts to defend your right to share the road.

Key California Laws That Affect Your Motorcycle Accident Claim

Two specific California rules often play a significant role in motorcycle accident cases. A clear picture of these laws helps you set realistic expectations for the claims process.

California’s Statute of Limitations

The law sets a firm deadline for filing a lawsuit to recover damages for your injuries. In California, you generally have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to file your claim. If you fail to file a lawsuit within this period, you lose your right to pursue compensation permanently. This deadline can sometimes be shorter. For example, if your accident was caused by a dangerous road condition, you may have a claim against a city or government agency. In these cases, you often have only six months to file a formal Notice of Claim.

Understanding Comparative Negligence

Close-up of the word negligence highlighted in a dictionary, emphasizing the legal concept of failure to act with reasonable care.

California uses a pure comparative negligence system to assign fault. This rule allows you to recover compensation even if you are partially responsible for the crash. The amount of compensation you receive is simply reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if an investigation finds you were 15% at fault for the accident, your final financial recovery would be reduced by 15%. This system acknowledges that fault is not always all or nothing. It allows for a fair distribution of damages based on each party’s contribution to the incident.

What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Bakersfield

The actions you take immediately following a motorcycle accident can protect both your physical health and your potential legal claim. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention because some injuries may not present symptoms for days. With the crash’s initial chaos behind you, it’s time to be strategic about protecting your rights. Follow these five steps:

Obtain a Copy of the Police Report: The responding law enforcement agency, whether the Bakersfield Police Department or the California Highway Patrol, created a formal report. This document contains key information about the collision, and you need to get a copy of it and review it for accuracy.
Preserve All Physical Evidence: Don’t throw anything away from the accident. Your damaged helmet, torn riding gear, and motorcycle are all important evidence. Take additional photos of your injuries as they heal to document the recovery process.
Follow Your Doctor’s Treatment Plan: Your health is the priority. Attend all follow-up medical appointments, physical therapy sessions, and fill all prescriptions. This not only aids your physical recovery but also creates a clear and continuous medical record that connects your injuries to the motorcycle accident.
Decline To Give a Recorded Statement: The other driver’s insurance company will likely contact you and ask for a recorded statement about the accident. You have no obligation to provide one. Politely decline their request until you have spoken with a lawyer who can advise you on how to proceed.
Seek Legal Guidance: Contact a Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyer to discuss your case. An initial consultation can provide a clear understanding of your legal options and help you formulate a strategy for pursuing fair compensation.

FAQ for Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

How Much Is My Motorcycle Accident Claim Worth?

Several specific factors determine a settlement’s value, so there is no average amount. Your Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyer calculates it based on the severity of your injuries, the total of your medical bills, the amount of your lost wages, and the extent of your pain and suffering. The clarity of who was at fault and the available insurance policy limits also play a significant role in determining the final value of your case.

What Happens if the Driver Who Hit Me Has No Insurance?

If the at-fault driver has no insurance or not enough to cover your damages, you may be able to file a claim using your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage if you have it. Your own insurance company would step in to cover your losses up to the limits of your UM/UIM policy.

How Can a Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help My Case?

A Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyer handles all communication with the insurance companies, freeing you to focus on your recovery. They conduct a full investigation to gather evidence, establish liability, calculate the full extent of your damages, and file a lawsuit if the insurer won’t offer a fair settlement. An attorney also helps you avoid common mistakes, like giving a recorded statement that an insurer could use against you.

What Should I Do if the Other Driver’s Insurance Adjuster Calls Me?

You’re not obligated to speak with the at-fault driver’s insurance adjuster. It’s best to be polite but brief. You can confirm your name and contact information, but decline to discuss the accident details or your injuries. Never agree to give a recorded statement or sign any documents without first speaking to a Bakersfield motorcycle crash lawyer.

How Long Will It Take To Resolve My Bakersfield Motorcycle Wreck Case?

There is no set timeline, as each case is unique; the duration depends on the severity of your injuries and the complexity of establishing fault. Many cases only settle after you have completed medical treatment, so you know the full extent of your damages.

Do I still have a claim if I was not wearing a helmet in the crash?

Yes. While California requires all motorcycle riders to wear a helmet, failing to do so does not automatically prevent you from recovering compensation. The other party’s insurance company may argue that your failure to wear a helmet contributed to your head injuries and try to reduce your compensation. However, they cannot use it to deny your entire claim, especially if you suffered injuries to other parts of your body.

What if the other driver’s insurance company says I am at fault for the accident?

You should not accept an insurance adjuster’s initial determination of fault. Insurers have a financial interest in blaming the victim to avoid paying a claim. Immediately contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. Your lawyer will conduct an independent investigation to gather evidence that proves what truly happened and counter the insurance company’s arguments.

Can I get my motorcycle repaired or replaced before my injury claim settles?

Yes, your property damage claim is separate from your personal injury claim. A personal injury lawyer can help you resolve the claim for your motorcycle’s repair or replacement costs while you receive medical treatment for your injuries. Your lawyer can help you navigate both claims simultaneously to ensure you get back on the road without compromising your right to full compensation for your injuries.

Your Prescription for Recovery

Two people shaking hands across a desk with a golden justice scale and gavel in view, symbolizing legal agreement and representation.

You don’t have to manage the complex legal process alone while you heal. The Law Offices of Mickey Fine is here to handle the legal details so you can put your energy where it matters most: your recovery. Contact the Law Offices of Mickey Fine today at (661) 333-3333 for a straightforward assessment of your case.

Law Offices of Mickey Fine – Bakersfield Office 930 Truxtun Ave, #110 Bakersfield, CA 93301 Phone: (661) 333-3333

Commonly Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Bakersfield CA

How do I file a motorcycle accident personal injury lawsuit in Bakersfield, CA?

Contacting an experienced Bakersfield motorcycle accident attorney like Mickey Fine to file your motorcycle accident claim may be the only way to recover for your losses. A Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyer can better help guide you down the road to recovery if you were injured as a result of the negligence of another driver or rider. Trying to handle a claim on your own can be difficult, especially when massive powerhouse insurance companies only care about giving you the bare minimum or even less than what you actually deserve, in addition to having a strong understanding of the law and how to take advantage of people.

To gain compensation for your motorcycle accident claim in Bakersfield, our lawyers will need to prove:

The party who caused your injury breached the duty of care for your safety
Because of the breach of duty, your injuries occurred

Who will pay for my compensation in a motorcycle accident injury claim?

In most cases, the at-fault party’s insurance company will pay the compensation you are owed because of your injuries. Navigating another insurance company can be a hard and long process, so it is important to have a motorcycle accident lawyer on your side to guide you through the process. Another important aspect to understand is your current insurance policy and the type of coverage you pay for. At the end of the day, it is obvious that no one plans on being involved in a motorcycle accident, but being prepared with the right coverage is something you can control.

How much compensation am I entitled to in a motorcycle accident?

The amount of compensation you receive depends on a myriad of variables because no two motorcycle accidents will be the same. Depending on the number of people involved and how severe the injuries sustained will determine how much compensation you are owed. The best way to determine how much compensation you are owed is through a one-on-one consultation with Mickey Fine. No matter what your police report says or what you have been told by an insurance company, only a motorcycle accident attorney can assess your claim and help you determine what your case is worth.

How long will my motorcycle accident claim take to resolve?

The answer to this question is never a certainty. The length of your case depends on the specifics of your injuries, situation, and treatment. Some cases resolve quickly, and others take time. The key is to have patience and allow Micky Fine to fight for you. Since no two accidents are the same, the length of time really depends on how serious the accident was and how many people were involved.

Should I accept an insurance settlement for my motorcycle accident claim?

You should never accept the insurance company’s initial offer until you have spoken with a motorcycle accident attorney. Insurance companies will often offer a quick settlement to prevent you from filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit. It is never in your best interests to accept an offer from the insurance company until you have discussed your case with a motorcycle accident attorney. Remember, insurance companies are for-profit corporations dedicated to increasing their bottom line. Motorcycle accident attorney Mickey Fine is an aggressive advocate for the rights of victims, dedicated to getting you the justice you deserve.

Can I file a motorcycle accident lawsuit even if I was not wearing a helmet?

Motorcycle helmets are required in the state of California. Failure to wear a helmet increases your chance of brain injury when you are involved in an accident. Not wearing a helmet does not prohibit you from taking legal action against the party responsible for your accident, but it may complicate things. It becomes increasingly difficult to seek full compensation for head injuries sustained in accidents where a helmet was not worn. Our motorcycle accident attorney can discuss this with you in more detail during your free case evaluation.

If I was the passenger on a motorcycle and was injured in an accident, can I file a lawsuit?

Passengers who sustain injuries in motorcycle accidents are entitled to seek compensation following an accident. These damages may include medical expenses, lost wages, and personal pain and suffering. If the driver of the motorcycle was responsible for the accident, he or she may be held accountable for your injuries. This is best determined through an investigation conducted by California motorcycle accident attorney Mickey Fine.