Claremont Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Claremont Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Southern California offers some of the greatest motorcycle routes in the country, from the twists of Mount Baldy Road to scenic stretches through the San Gabriel Valley. For riders in Claremont, motorcycles are a way of life. Unfortunately, sharing the road with inattentive or reckless drivers can quickly turn a relaxing ride into a life-altering event. When this happens, having a Claremont motorcycle accident lawyer can make a huge difference.

The Uniqueness of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accident cases are not like car accidents. Riders lack the protective metal frame of a car, so even low-speed crashes can lead to catastrophic injuries. Common outcomes include broken bones, road rash, spinal injuries, brain trauma, and permanent disability. Insurance companies often try to pin the blame on the motorcyclist using unfair stereotypes to reduce their liability.

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, expensive medical care, and lengthy recovery. While riders face the most danger, they’re frequently blamed for accidents they didn’t cause. However, most motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers, not the rider. Drivers often fail to check their blind spots, misjudge speeds, or make unsafe left turns.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash in or near Claremont, you need an attorney who understands not just the law but the unique challenges riders face.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycle riders made up 14% of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities in 2021, although making up only 3.5% of registered cars. Furthermore, according to VMT, motorcycle riders had a nearly 24-fold higher risk of dying in traffic accidents than passengers in passenger cars.

Additionally, there were 30.68 motorcycle fatalities per 100 million in 2021 as opposed to 1.22 passenger car occupant fatalities per 100 million in 2023. In California, motorcycle fatalities saw an increase in 2020, many due to riders not wearing helmets.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can be caused by a number of reasons. While every crash is different, some causes come up frequently in Claremont and surrounding areas:

• Left-turn collisions: A vehicle turns in front of an oncoming motorcycle at an intersection.
• Blind spot accidents: Drivers fail to see riders while changing lanes.
• Rear-end crashes: Even low-speed rear-end impacts can throw riders off the bike.
• Distracted driving: Texting, GPS use, and other distractions delay driver reaction times.
• Hazardous road conditions: Potholes, gravel, and uneven surfaces can be deadly for two wheels.

Riders have every right to share the road safely. When others violate that right, they can be held legally accountable.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Claremont

The moments after a crash are overwhelming, but your actions can significantly affect your case. If you’re able, call 911 and request a police report, which is typically handled by the Claremont Police Department or California Highway Patrol. Take photos of the scene, get contact information from witnesses, and avoid making statements to insurance adjusters.

You should still seek medical attention right away, even if you think you’re fine. Many injuries, especially internal ones, don’t show symptoms right away. Having immediate medical care can both protect your health and strengthen your claim.

Legal cases from Claremont are often filed through the Pomona Courthouse, a branch of the Los Angeles Superior Court. Our firm is familiar with this court’s procedures and regularly represents clients throughout the county.

How We Can Help

At Belgum, Fry & Van Allen, we take a comprehensive approach to motorcycle accident cases. From the moment you contact us, we start building a detailed case file involving interviewing witnesses, preserving evidence, and consulting with medical and accident reconstruction professionals. We also handle all communication with insurance companies, so you don’t have to. We pursue compensation for you for the following damages:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage

We recommend reaching out as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected from day one. The sooner we can begin investigating, the stronger your case will be.

Why Choose Us?

With offices serving the Inland Empire and decades of experience in personal injury law, Belgum, Fry & Van Allen brings deep experience and compassion to every case. The firm’s attorneys have secured large verdicts and settlements in complex injury cases, including wrongful death, vehicle crashes, truck accident claims, pedestrian accident cases, and serious brain or spine trauma.

Attorneys Garrett Fry and Brian Van Allen have each been recognized as Super Lawyers Rising Stars. Van Allen has also been named a Top 40 Under 40 attorney. Both are known for combining strong litigation skills with personal, client-focused service.

FAQs

Q: How Much Are Most Motorcycle Accident Settlements?

A: The amount recovered in a motorcycle settlement depends largely on the details surrounding the motorcycle case. In order to determine an amount, the cost of injuries, property damage, and emotional suffering, among other things, must be considered. Because each case is unique, this amount will vary for each motorcycle accident. The level of liability and negligence of both parties will also be considered.

Q: Should I Get a Lawyer for a Motorcycle Accident?

A: While not legally required, it is highly recommended that you get a lawyer for a motorcycle accident, especially if you have suffered significant and quantifiable losses. This is especially true if insurance cannot cover the extent of your losses. It is also recommended that you get a lawyer if there is a dispute over who is liable for the accident. An attorney can fight for your rights and future.

Q: How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Settlement Take?

A: Motorcycle accidents can take a few months to a few years, depending on the circumstances of the case. The timeline depends on factors like the severity of injuries, medical treatment duration, insurance negotiations, and whether a claim is filed. Simple claims may settle quickly, while complex cases involving litigation or disputed liability can take much longer.

Q: Can I Still Recover Damages if I Was Partially at Fault for the Accident?

A: Yes, you can still recover damages if you are partially at fault for the accident. California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages even if you are partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. An attorney can help you understand your level of fault and how it applies to damage recovery.

Contact Belgum, Fry & Van Allen Today

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Claremont, Belgum, Fry & Van Allen can help you seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation.