Posted on Monday, August 5th, 2019 at 4:02 am    

Motorcyclists and riders have a high risk of sustaining traumatic injuries or life-threatening injuries in a motorcycle accident because of the lack of protection offered by the vehicle. Even though riders may wear motorcycle helmets and other motorcycle riding gear, the lack of a metal frame and other vehicle safety features leaves the riders vulnerable in a collision. We often discuss who pays a motorcyclist for damages and injuries caused by a motorcycle crash, but who compensates a motorcycle passenger injured in an accident? Is the motorcyclist responsible or the other driver?

Fault for a Motorcycle Accident in California

The person responsible for causing the motorcycle accident is responsible for the injuries, losses, and damages sustained by the victims of the accident. Therefore, if the motorcyclist was at fault, the rider could file an injury claim against the motorcyclist’s insurance coverage seeking compensation for the rider’s damages and injuries. If the insurance company denied the claim or refused to pay a fair amount to settle the claim, the passenger could file a motorcycle accident lawsuit against the motorcyclist seeking compensation. If another driver or other third party is responsible for causing the motorcycle accident, the passenger’s claim would be against that party. The passenger could file a claim against the driver or party’s insurance coverage. If the insurance claim is denied, the passenger would then file a motorcycle accident lawsuit against that party. However, it can be difficult to know who caused a motorcycle accident. In some cases, the motorcyclist and another party could both be responsible for causing the crash. In that case, the motorcycle passenger could seek compensation from each party responsible for the crash.

What Should a Motorcycle Passenger Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

A passenger on a motorcycle can call 911 to report the accident if both drivers refuse to report the accident to the police. While waiting for the police to arrive, it is a good idea to take pictures of the accident scene and make a video of the accident scene, if possible. The pictures of the accident scene before the vehicles are moved can be helpful when determining how the accident occurred. It is also useful to note whether the motorcyclist or the other driver accepts fault for the crash. Asking eyewitnesses for their names and contact information is also a good idea. After the accident, it is important to seek medical treatment for injuries. To recover compensation for a motorcycle accident claim, you must have evidence that you were injured in the crash. Therefore, seeing a doctor as soon as possible to document your injuries and receive treatment is essential. Even though a motorcycle passenger typically does not have any liability for causing a crash, it can be helpful to contact a Sacramento motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights. Insurance companies trying to avoid paying an injury claim could try to blame the motorcycle passenger for his or her injuries. An attorney fights to ensure that an innocent passenger is not blamed for his or her injuries.

Contact a Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorney for Help

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, the personal injury lawyers at The Tiemann Law Firm can help. Call our office at (916) 999-9000 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Sacramento.

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From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

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It is hard to put into words the care and dedication that I received from the Tiemann’s. They have been here for me every step of the way and were always available when I had questions or concerns. My husband and I will be forever grateful for everything they have done for us and our family. Thank you so much for all of the hard work and time you have put into my case, we greatly appreciate it and your friendship. We highly recommend this firm and will always be thankful for everything they have done. Thank you so much again, Kim

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I just saw my lawyer Jelena Tiemann on a t.v ad, which reminded me how much she helped when I was in a desperate situation. I just love her! That is why I feel a need to tell everyone. I had a situation that happened & didn’t know what to do, our where to go. I didn’t even know if she could help me or if any lawyer could. All I wanted was it to go away & was afraid most lawyers wanted to drag it out & possibly go to court. For one she was very professional but was very personable (maybe b.c she’s a lady). She didn’t make me feel embarrassed or self-conscious that I did something wrong or was the cause of the situation. She immediately said we should try our best before going to court. Let me handle some paperwork, if at the last we do go to court we have documents. She gave me all the details, pros and cons but reassured me she deals with these cases all the time. She came through and made it as painless as possible. I now have my life back.

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Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

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I chose Tiemann Law Firm to help me after a car accident I was involved in. Throughout the entire process, Moe made sure to keep me updated, he always responded quickly whenever  I had questions about anything. My case won thanks to this law firm and its dedication. My experience with Tiemann Law Firm was amazing! 10/10 recommended.