Modesto Motorcycle Accident Legal Help
Protecting Motorcycle Accident Victims Across California
At the Law Offices of Dean Petrulakis, our founding attorney understands how catastrophic motorcycle injuries can be following a serious accident. Motorcyclists lack the same protections those in passenger vehicles may rely on in a crash, and as a result, their injuries may be more severe. Because motorcycle riders are more vulnerable in a crash, it is especially important for other drivers to drive with caution and care around motorcyclists. Failure to do so could ultimately cause a motorcycle rider to lose balance, slide out, or crash.
If you or someone you love was harmed in a motorcycle crash, it’s in your best interest to determine how the crash was caused and who could be at fault. In the event that your crash was caused by someone else’s negligence or mistake, you may be eligible to seek legal action against the liable party. Legal action could help you seek justice and closure after a traumatic crash, and it could help you secure compensation for costly medical bills and lost wages.
Do You Have a Claim? Let Our Team Assist You.
Here's what makes our firm stand out:
- We have 20+ years of experience fighting for the wrongfully injured.
- Our firm doesn’t charge anything for our services until you have regained your rightful compensation.
- We can use our resources to connect you with the best doctors and medical attention possible.
- Our team can help you get a rental car while your motorcycle is repaired.
- Open client communication is key; we return calls as soon as possible!
Still not convinced we're the right firm for you? Read what former clients had to say about us. We will work to help you establish liability when you file your claim and recover the rightful damages for your motorcycle accident.
Contact our team by calling (209) 528-0404 today to schedule a free consultation with our Modesto motorcycle accident lawyer.
Understanding the Severity of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are a great way to travel around Modesto, which is why many people use them to commute or for recreation. Unfortunately, motorcycle riders are not protected by the same safety features that drivers in passenger cars are, which is why these smaller, two-wheeled vehicles are prone to serious damage in a crash. And, if a devastating crash occurs, the motorcyclist is very likely to retain the brunt of the injury.
Motorcycle riders are often victims of distracted drivers, bad weather, or poorly maintained roads. If you were injured in a motorcycle-related accident caused by negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.
Establishing Liability After a Motorcycle Injury
While California does have a helmet law in place to protect riders, the impact a motorcyclist would likely endure in a crash can cause serious and life-altering injuries even with the appropriate protective gear. Whether the rider collides with their own vehicle, another vehicle, or the pavement, these types of dramatic impacts can result in traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, contusions, road rash, fractures, and more.
In the event that you or a loved one was seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, it is imperative that you retain the representation of our team. Dean can work with you to determine how your crash was caused and who might be liable. In a motorcycle crash, the motorcycle manufacturer could be liable, as could other drivers, nearby construction crews, road maintenance teams, or anyone else responsible for causing the motorcyclist injury, whether directly or indirectly.
Recovering Damages in Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
The damages that can be recovered generally fall into two categories: economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages Explained
These damages may include the following:
- Medical Expenses: The cost of present and future medical treatments, including hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost because of the incapability to work during recovery.
- Loss of Earning Capacity: If the incident leads to long-term or permanent disabilities that impact the capacity to earn a living.
- Property Damage: The cost of restoring or replacing your motorcycle and other personal property damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages Overview
These may include:
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional misery caused by the accident.
- Emotional Distress: This can include anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mental health issues that arise because of the incident.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the injuries sustained prevent the victim from enjoying activities they once did.
- Loss of Consortium: Compensation awarded to the partner of the injured party for the loss of companionship and intimacy due to the injuries.
Important: Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Claims in California
For most motorcycle accident claims involving personal injuries, the statute of limitations in California is two years from the accident date. You will have two years from the crash date to file a personal injury case against the at-fault party. If the claim is not filed within this time frame, the court is likely to discharge the case, and you will lose the right to pursue compensation.
Filing a lawsuit within the statute of limitations is critical for preserving your right to recover damages. Waiting too long to file could result in losing the ability to pursue compensation, regardless of how clear the fault or extent of your injuries.
Were You Injured In a Motorcycle Accident?
Common injuries suffered by motorcycle riders include:
- Paralysis
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord or neck injuries
- Broken or fractured bones
- Lacerations
In extremely serious motorcycle accidents, the resulting damage can be irreparable, resulting in a fatality either at the time of the crash or during the treatment process. These types of losses can be extremely traumatic, which is why calling an experienced Modesto motorcycle accident attorney is so important. If you are grieving the loss of a loved one because of a fatal motorcycle accident, we can assess your situation and help you file a wrongful death claim against the responsible party.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Modesto Today
When you work with our firm, we can take immediate action to help ensure that your rights are protected after a damaging crash. During your initial consultation, our team can assess your situation and create a personalized legal strategy to help you obtain justice and maximum compensation. Using our experience, extensive knowledge of California laws, and our zealous pursuit of justice, we can determine who is liable for your injuries and help you take action.
Ready to get started? Contact the Law Offices of Dean Petrulakis today by calling (209) 528-0404 to discuss your case with our motorcycle accident lawyers in Modesto.
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“Very knowledgeable in his craft.”
I came to the Law Office of Dean Petrulakis after being referred from a friend. I was previously working with another firm who had done very little to help me, let alone communicate with me. Mr. Petrulakis took time to speak with me over the phone and after consideration of the difficulties related to my case, he agreed to take my case. I was very impressed and appreciative of the genuine concern and compassion he relayed. He is very knowledgeable in his craft, and equally kind and personable. He and his assistant Jennifer were amazing communicators who kept me well informed without delay. My case was handled quickly, professionally, and exceeded my expectations. I highly recommend the Law Offices of Dean Petrulakis to everyone/anyone who has been injured and needs representation.- K's A. -
“HIGHLY recommend him for any injury needs”
“Dean has definitely helped us with a case on our hit and run. My husband and I are so thankful for his fast action and professionalism. Great staff. HIGHLY recommend him for any injury needs. Thank you Dean!”- Former Client -
“The best in our area by far!”
“Thank you helping us when we needed you. The best in our area by far!”- Former Client -
“Dean Petrulakis and his firm were invaluable in helping me through a difficult time.”
“Dean walked me through the process and made it easy.”- Former Client -
“Dean knows how to win your case and be there for you.”
“Dean is very personable, accessible and dedicated.”- Former Client -
“Dean is an outstanding attorney to have at your side.”
“Dean explained the entire process to me and what to expect during my case.”- Former Client -
“Dean took care of my situation to the best of his ability.”
“When I hired the Law Offices of Dean Petrulakis, I received more than what I imagined.”- Former Client -
“Dean is amazing and very professional!”
“Dean will do everything in his power to get the results you want.”- Former Client
