California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
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California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Committed To
Protecting The Injured One Case At A Time.
The Golden State offers beautiful highways and ideal riding weather throughout the year. Our California motorcycle accident lawyers know that riding offers more than just transportation for many people. They provide a way to enjoy the open road, clear the mind, and experience a sense of freedom.
However, riding comes with real risks, whether you’re doing it for recreation or not. Generally, motorcyclists face a much higher chance of serious injury in a crash. A single careless driver can turn a routine ride into a life-changing event.
If a motorcycle accident injured you or someone close to you, speaking with a lawyer can help you protect your rights. The attorneys at Arash Law assist clients by:
- Explaining legal options.
- Evaluating claims.
- Handling insurance matters.
- Guiding clients through the legal process.
We tailor our strategies to meet the unique circumstances of each individual. Reach out to us at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
Why Hire Our California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Recovering from a motorcycle crash isn’t just about healing your body. It also involves addressing the questions that follow. You may be unsure about who was at fault, what your insurance will cover, or how to start a claim. Trying to manage all of this alone can feel overwhelming.
At Arash Law, we’re here to guide you through it. Our California motorcycle accident lawyers help people understand their rights.
Here’s what we offer:
- Experience That Matters — We’ve handled many motorcycle accident cases and can guide you on your next steps.
- Personal Support — We listen to your story and create a plan that fits your needs.
- Clear Updates — We explain your options and keep you informed at every step.
- Strong Preparation — We gather important evidence and work with experts when needed.
- Client Care — We advocate for your rights and manage the legal process for you.
How Our Attorneys Can Help With Your Motorcycle Accident Case
Handling a motorcycle accident claim takes more than just filling out paperwork. A strong case, solid evidence, and a legal plan are necessary. Our team takes care of the hard parts so you can focus on getting better.
Here’s what our California motorcycle accident lawyers do for you:
- Look into everyone who may be at fault, like other drivers, companies, or manufacturers.
- Collect police reports, camera footage, and witness statements.
- Gather and protect key evidence, like vehicle damage and crash scene details.
- Collaborate with experts to determine lost income or future care needs.
- Review insurance policies to identify potential sources of compensation.
- Prepare your case in case it goes to trial.
No lawyer can guarantee a certain outcome. However, with the right team and a strong plan, you have a better chance of getting the compensation you may deserve under California law.
Settlement on the first day of trial against governmental entity for dangerous construction conditions on a local street that caused a motorcycle accident – largest motorcycle settlement in Los Angeles for 2019 – client suffered shoulder injuries– JUDD ROSS ALLEN
Motorcycle Accident FAQs
Getting into a motorcycle accident can leave you confused and stressed. You may have many questions about what to do next. Here are some common questions riders ask after a crash in California:
Can I Receive Compensation In California Even If I Wasn't Wearing A Helmet?
Yes, you may still be entitled to seek compensation. However, your potential payment could be reduced if you weren’t wearing a helmet and had a head injury. California uses a system called “comparative fault.” That means if your actions made your injuries worse, it may affect how much you can pursue. A personal injury lawyer can look at your case and explain how failure to use a helmet might change your claim.
What If I Don’t Have Insurance At The Time Of My Motorcycle Accident In California?
You can still file a claim against the driver who caused the crash. However, if you didn’t have insurance, California’s “No Pay, No Play” rule says you can’t pursue damages like pain and suffering. You might also face fines or other penalties. A motorcycle accident lawyer can explain what damages you can still include in your claim.
What Is The Average Payout For A Motorcycle Accident In California?
There’s no fixed amount. Payouts depend on your injuries, medical bills, time missed from work, and how the crash has impacted your life. Minor injuries may result in lower payouts, while serious ones can lead to significantly higher payouts, depending on the circumstances. A California motorcycle accident attorney can evaluate your case and provide a clearer idea of what to expect.
How Long Will It Take To Resolve My Motorcycle Accident Case?
Some cases settle within a few months, while others can take a year or longer, especially if they are tried in court. It depends on the severity of the crash and whether there are disagreements regarding who was at fault or the amount of compensation due. A lawyer can help with the process and keep you informed.
Do I Have To Go To Court For My Motorcycle Accident?
Not always. Many motorcycle accident cases get resolved outside of court. If the insurance company won’t offer a fair deal, your lawyer may recommend taking the case to court. They’ll assist you in deciding the next steps based on your situation.
How Much Do Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Charge In California?
Most motorcycle accident lawyers in California operate on a “no win, no fee” basis. This means you don’t pay lawyer fees up front. If we win your case, our fee is taken from a percentage of your settlement. The actual amount depends on several factors, including the complexity of the case. Still, certain case costs may apply, regardless of the outcome. We are transparent about costs and will guide you through the details, helping you to move forward with confidence.
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Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Not all motorcycle crashes involve other vehicles. Some happen because of bad road conditions like potholes, loose gravel, debris, or bumpy roads from construction. These can make a rider lose control, even if they’re being careful.
But in most cases, motorcycle accidents happen because of driver mistakes. When drivers aren’t paying attention or drive unsafely, they put riders in danger. Some of the most common causes include:
- Distracted Driving — A driver who is texting, eating, or adjusting controls can easily miss a motorcycle, leading to lane change collisions or rear-end crashes.
- Speeding — Drivers traveling too fast may not have enough time to react to motorcycles, often causing rear-end or intersection accidents.
- Failure to Yield — Some drivers don’t give motorcycles the right of way, especially when turning left.
- Driving Under The Influence — A driver under the influence may not see a motorcycle or react fast enough, causing severe collisions, including sideswipes and head-on crashes.
- Unsafe Lane Changes — A driver who fails to check blind spots can easily sideswipe a motorcycle or force it off the road.
- Following Too Closely — Tailgating leaves drivers little time to stop, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions.
- Aggressive or Reckless Driving — Swerving, speeding, or weaving through traffic puts motorcyclists in danger.
These unsafe actions often lead to serious types of accidents. Identifying both the cause and type of accident is key to determining who may be responsible for your injuries.
Common Types Of Motorcycle Accidents
Riding a motorcycle is exciting, but it also has its risks. Motorcyclists have less protection and are more likely to sustain more serious injuries in accidents than other drivers. Knowing the different types of motorcycle accidents can not only help riders stay safe but also help them determine who may be at fault if they are ever involved in an accident.
Rear-End Collisions
A driver may cause a rear-end collision when hitting the back of a motorcycle, often due to failing to pay attention or following too closely. These accidents can cause severe injuries to the motorcyclist if they’re thrown from their bike upon impact.
Intersection Accidents
These collisions occur when a motorcycle and a car crash at an intersection, often due to a car driver’s failure to yield the right of way or running a red light. This negligence puts motorcyclists at high risk of injury.
Hit-And-Run Motorcycle Accidents
Hit-and-run motorcycle accidents happen when a driver collides with a motorcyclist and then leaves the scene without providing their information or assisting the injured rider. These incidents can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. The at-fault driver’s departure often complicates the process of seeking compensation.
Left-Turn Accidents
One common accident type in California involves a vehicle making a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. These incidents usually happen because the car driver misjudges the motorcycle’s speed or distance, failing to see the motorcyclist in time.
Lane Change Collisions
Lane change crashes occur when a car switches lanes and collides with a motorcycle. This type of accident often results from the car driver not checking their blind spots properly, which can make it easy to miss a motorcycle.
Sideswipe Crashes
Sideswipe crashes occur when a car sideswipes a motorcycle, typically due to the car driver not noticing the motorcycle or misjudging its distance. This lack of awareness can lead to severe motorcycle accidents.
By recognizing these types of accidents and their causes, riders can better understand how the negligence of others can impact their safety and legal rights. Understanding these types of accidents can help motorcycle riders know what to look out for and support their case in assessing liability if they are injured.
Common Injuries Sustained In Motorcycle Accidents
Riders might get scratches, cuts, or minor wounds in low-speed crashes. Conversely, high-speed accidents might lead to catastrophic injuries.
Our California motorcycle accident attorneys can handle claims involving different types of injuries. Here are some of the common ones in motorcycle accidents:
- Road Rash — Motorcyclists often suffer cuts, burns, and abrasions from sliding on the pavement during an accident. These injuries typically heal in a few weeks but require proper care to prevent infections.
- Soft Tissue Injuries — The impact of a crash may also result in sprains, whiplash, or muscle strains. These injuries cause discomfort, pain, and limited mobility for extended periods.
- Broken Bones — It’s common for victims to sustain broken arms, legs, hips, or ribs in a motorcycle accident. In severe cases, fractured limbs may need to be amputated, which could affect a victim’s capacity to earn a living.
- Spinal Cord Injuries — When bikers are thrown off at impact during an accident, they can suffer spinal cord injuries, which may result in paralysis. Paralyzed victims often need round-the-clock care and experience a reduced quality of life.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries — Even with a helmet on, victims can still suffer head injuries, such as concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries from a motorcycle accident. If left undiagnosed or untreated, these injuries could lead to coma or death.
Compensation For Motorcycle Accident Injuries In California
Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries that affect your body, your job, and your daily life. If someone else caused the crash, you may be able to seek compensation for:
- Medical bills, including treatment for:
- Broken bones (arms, legs, ribs, hips).
- Spinal cord injuries (which may cause paralysis).
- Head injuries (like concussions or skull fractures).
- Muscle injuries (sprains, whiplash, or strains).
- Road rash or scrapes from hitting the pavement.
- Lost wages, if your injuries keep you from working now or in the future.
- Property damage, including repairs or replacement of your motorcycle and other belongings.
- Pain and suffering from physical pain, emotional distress, or trauma.
- Loss of enjoyment of life, if your injuries stop you from doing things you once enjoyed.
- Punitive damages may be available in rare cases where the other party’s actions showed extreme recklessness or intentional harm. For example, if a driver was racing through traffic while under the influence.
The amount you may pursue depends on:
- How serious your injuries are and how they affect your life.
- The insurance coverage available.
- The evidence you have, like medical records or witness statements.
- How well your case is presented through legal arguments, documentation, and support.
Our California motorcycle accident lawyers can review your case, work with experts, and help you seek a fair amount under the law.
Wrongful Death Claims After A Motorcycle Accident In California
Tragically, some motorcycle crashes result in fatal injuries. A rider may pass away at the scene or later from serious injuries. When that happens, surviving family members may have legal options to seek justice and compensation.
A wrongful death claim lets family members seek money for the loss of their loved one. This may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses.
- Loss of financial support and benefits.
- Loss of companionship, care, and guidance.
A survival claim, on the other hand, allows the estate to pursue damages the person would have been entitled to if they had survived, such as:
- Medical expenses related to the final injury.
- Pain and suffering experienced before death.
Our California motorcycle accident lawyers can guide you and help you figure out your options, gather the necessary evidence, and work to establish who may be legally responsible. While no legal action can undo the loss, these claims may help provide financial support and a sense of accountability.
To learn more about your legal avenues, call us at (888) 488-1391. Our team is here to support you during this difficult time.
Proving Liability In A California Motorcycle Accident
To have a valid claim after a motorcycle accident, you must prove that someone else was legally responsible for causing the crash. This often involves showing that another party acted negligently or violated their legal duties.
- Negligence — Most motorcycle accident claims stem from negligence. To prove negligence, your attorney must establish four key elements:
- Duty of Care — All drivers have a legal responsibility to follow traffic laws and operate their vehicles safely.
- Breach of Duty — A driver breaches this duty by acting carelessly, speeding, failing to yield, making unsafe lane changes, or running a red light.
- Causation — The driver’s careless actions directly caused the accident and your injuries.
- Damages — You suffered losses from the accident, such as medical bills, lost wages, property damage, or pain and suffering.
While negligence is the most common basis for a motorcycle accident claim, other legal theories may also apply:
- Product Liability — If a defect in the motorcycle or one of its parts contributed to the crash, the manufacturer or distributor may be held responsible.
- Intentional Torts — In rare cases, a driver may intentionally cause harm, such as through road rage or deliberate aggressive driving.
- Vicarious Liability — An employer may be held responsible if the at-fault driver was working at the time of the accident.
California law allows you to recover compensation under its pure comparative negligence system even if you were partly at fault for the accident. However, this will reduce your compensation by the percentage of your fault.
For example, if you were 10% responsible for a crash and your total damages were $10,000, you would only receive $9,000.
Our California motorcycle accident attorneys review each case carefully, explain how liability laws apply to the specific facts, and help gather the evidence to support the claim.
Who May Be Responsible For A Motorcycle Accident
Our lawyers review each case carefully because multiple parties may be responsible depending on how the crash occurred. Possible parties include:
- Other Drivers — Those who break traffic laws, drive distracted, speed, or fail to yield can cause serious accidents.
- Manufacturers, Parts Suppliers, or Mechanics — Defective parts or improper repairs may lead to mechanical failures that cause a crash.
- Government Agencies — Poor road design, unsafe conditions, or lack of proper maintenance may create hazards that lead to accidents.
- Third Parties — Pedestrians, contractors, or others who create unexpected dangers in traffic may also contribute to a collision.
Identifying who may be responsible is one of the first steps in understanding how a motorcycle accident claim may proceed. Each situation depends on the specific facts involved.
What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident In California
If you’ve suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident, you might already be getting medical care, or perhaps you’re on the mend at home. No matter how much time has passed since the incident, there are some helpful steps you can think about that may protect your claim and aid in your recovery journey.
While not required, the following may be helpful:
- Follow Your Medical Treatment — Keep medical appointments and follow your doctor’s advice. Staying consistent with treatment can support both your health and your claim.
- Organize Your Documents — Gather medical records, hospital bills, police reports, repair estimates, and insurance correspondence.
- Save Photos and Evidence — If you or someone else took photos at the scene, keep copies showing vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, or anything related to the accident.
- Avoid Sharing Details Publicly — Consider limiting social media activity related to the accident to avoid potential issues later in the claims process.
- Be Cautious When Speaking to Insurance Companies — Before giving recorded statements or accepting settlement offers, it may be helpful to first speak with legal counsel.
- Seek Medical Attention — Visit a hospital promptly to check for hidden injuries. Immediate medical attention can detect serious issues before they worsen.
- Consult Good Motorcycle Accident Lawyers — An attorney can review your situation, help identify important evidence, and communicate with insurance companies.
If you need assistance with your claim or have questions about the next steps, Arash Law is available to help review your situation, answer your questions, and guide you through the process.
Deadlines For Filing A Motorcycle Accident Case In California
Motorcycle accident claims in California must be filed within certain time limits under the statute of limitations. The deadline depends on who may be responsible for the accident:
- Claims against private parties (such as drivers, property owners, or businesses) — Usually must be filed within two years from the date of the accident.
- Claims involving government agencies (such as unsafe road conditions or public property hazards) — Usually must be filed within six months from the date of the accident.
In some situations, exceptions may apply, including:
- If the injured person is a minor at the time of the accident, parents or legal guardians may file a claim on their behalf; otherwise, the time limit generally starts once the child turns 18.
- If the injured person is physically or mentally unable to file a claim right away, the deadline may be extended.
In rare cases, certain legal circumstances may delay or pause the filing period, such as when the responsible party actively avoids being located or their identity is unknown.
In these situations, you may still be able to file a lawsuit against an unidentified driver and amend the complaint upon discovery of their identity. This action is referred to as a John Doe lawsuit and allows the legal process to begin while preserving your right to seek compensation.
Filing within the correct deadlines safeguards your rights. Since every situation is different, consider speaking with Arash Law to better understand how these deadlines apply to your case.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics In California
Understanding motorcycle accident statistics may help put your situation into perspective after a crash. These numbers show how serious motorcycle accidents can be, why injuries are often severe, and how certain risk factors may affect accident claims. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data reveal:
- In 2023, 6,335 motorcyclists died in the U.S., representing 15% of all traffic fatalities — the highest number since at least 1975.
- About 41% of these fatalities involved alcohol impairment.
- Helmet use was reported at 74% among motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes.
- Motorcyclists were nearly 28 times more likely to be killed in a crash than people in cars, when comparing the distance traveled.
- Motorcyclists accounted for 15.5% of all traffic deaths in 2023.
The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) provides targeted data for the state:
- In 2022, 634 motorcyclist fatalities were reported in California, up 3.8% from 611 in 2021.
- Fatalities involving riders not wearing helmets increased 11%, from 37 in 2021 to 41 in 2022.
A California case study analyzed motorcycle accidents from 2015 to 2020 and found that several factors increase the risk of severe injury or death in motorcycle crashes:
- Alcohol use was strongly linked to fatal injuries, especially in single-vehicle crashes.
- Not wearing a helmet greatly increased the risk of death in all accidents.
- Older riders faced higher fatality risks in multi-vehicle crashes, particularly away from intersections.
- Interstate highways were more dangerous than smaller local roads.
- Winter weather increased injury risks in some multi-vehicle crashes.
- Lighting conditions affected injury severity differently depending on the crash type.
Understanding these risks may help explain what happened if you suffered harm in a crash. A motorcycle accident lawyer in California may help you take steps toward financial and physical recovery.
Frequent Locations For Motorcycle Accidents In California
Certain areas in California are particularly congested, resulting in hazardous conditions for motorcyclists. Here are the cities with the most motorcyclist fatalities and injuries over the past decade, according to the Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) data:
- Los Angeles
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- Sacramento
- Oakland
- Long Beach
- Riverside
- Anaheim
- San Jose
- Oceanside
- San Bernardino
Our motorcycle accident attorneys also urge riders to be careful when traveling on certain roads, particularly those with a high rate of accidents. According to an analysis of NHTSA’s data, here are the most dangerous roads in California based on the number of traffic fatalities:
- I-15 in Hesperia (San Bernardino)
- I-80 in Oakland, Emeryville, Berkeley, and Albany (Alameda)
- I-80 in Richmond, El Cerrito, Pinole, and San Pablo (Contra Costa)
- I-5 in Sacramento
- I-215 in Colton (San Bernardino)
- SR-74 in Menifee (Riverside)
- I-605 in Norwalk and Cerritos (Los Angeles)
- I-280 in San Jose (Santa Clara)
- Bear Valley Rd in Apple Valley and Hesperia (San Bernardino)
- SR-22 in Garden Grove (Orange)
- I-15 in San Diego
- I-5 in Chula Vista (San Diego)
Wherever the accident occurred within the state, our California motorcycle accident attorneys can represent you. We serve injured victims throughout the state. Call us or contact us online, and let’s discuss how we can help you with your claim and on your road to recovery.
Get Legal Guidance From Our California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Recovering from a motorcycle accident or coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy. It takes time, support, and resources to begin rebuilding. While no amount of money can undo what happened, compensation can help ease the burden and provide support for you and your family.
If you wonder, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer near me?” You’re on the right path. Our California motorcycle accident lawyers at Arash Law can provide legal insights on your possible options. We listen closely to your story, answer your questions clearly, and help you make informed decisions every step of the way.
We offer free initial consultations and can meet you wherever is most convenient. Our team, which also consists of car accident lawyers, serves clients in Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Riverside. We also assist clients in Bakersfield, Stockton, Chula Vista, Irvine, Orange County, Fresno, Sacramento, and many other cities across California.
If you are ready to explore your options, call us at (888) 488-1391. We are here to listen and guide you through what comes next.
