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All motorists, including motorcycle riders, are required to have insurance in California. Motorcyclists must have a minimum of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury coverage. They must also have $15,000 for property damage coverage.
Other motorist insurance is similar to these but can vary.
These insurance requirements help provide financial protection to victims when negligent parties cause accidents. Insurance policies are confusing at times. However, Arash Law, under the guidance of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., is here to offer legal assistance. Donโt hesitate to reach out if you need help with your insurance claim or have questions about your coverage.
Our motorcycle accident attorneys can discuss the variables that apply to your motorcycle accident claim. We can also address what happens when you do not have adequate insurance coverage in a collision. You might be eligible to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party for damages if the other driver is uninsured. Contact our motorcycle accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free initial consultation.
No Pay, No Play Law In California
The Golden State enforces stringent regulations concerning the minimum insurance requirements for motorcycle owners. Insurance is essential for covering your losses and injuries following a motorcycle accident. However, thereโs the possibility that both parties have insurance, but the coverage may not adequately address all your damages. Several factors come into play when assessing your insurance coverage.
In 1996, Proposition 213, commonly known as the โNo Pay, No Playโ law, was passed. This aims to deter anyone from driving or riding without insurance. The law limits the damages for which an individual can file after an accident if that person is driving without insurance. Additionally, the law also disallows convicted felons from seeking damages if they are in an accident while committing a crime or fleeing the scene.
Essentially, if you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you may find there are limits to the damages you can pursue. Sometimes, you can seek damages for tangible losses like medical expenses and lost income. However, there can also be situations where you might not be eligible to file a claim for non-economic losses, such as disfigurement or pain and suffering. Discuss how this law applies to your claim with motorcycle accident lawyers.
Uninsured Riderโs Rights
Sometimes, people assume there is nothing they can do if they do not have insurance coverage. However, being an uninsured motorcyclist doesnโt automatically absolve the other driver from responsibility for covering your losses. Your insurance status might not matter if you were not at fault for the collision. You can speak with motorcycle accident lawyers in California to help you explore your options.
Itโs important to note that a lack of insurance may be used to limit your claim. Getting legal support can help you protect yourself throughout the claims process. Our accident lawyers are experienced in handling motorcycle accidents and are familiar with Prop 213 and how it may apply to your case. We have years of experience negotiating with insurance companies and representing clients. Our uninsured motorist accident attorneys can advocate for your rights in these instances.
Consequences Of Driving Without Motorcycle Insurance In California
Riding without insurance may lead to serious legal consequences, including fines or penalties from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Additionally, any accident causing damages or injuries over $1,000 must be reported. If you were injured in a crash without insurance, obtaining compensation can be challenging due to a lack of coverage from the at-fault party. Nonetheless, options for seeking legal compensation may still be available.
Consulting a legal professional can help you understand your rights and guide your subsequent actions. Our California motorcycle accident lawyers can help you negotiate your claim.
Penalties For Driving Without Insurance
California police officers can pull over motorcycles for traffic violations. When they do, they can ask that you present your license, vehicle registration, and financial responsibility evidence. You can give them proof of financial responsibility in the form of:
- Proof of insurance with the minimum limits of $15,000 for property damage, $30,000 for bodily injury per person, and $60,000 for bodily injury per accident.
- Alternative proof, such as a monetary deposit with the state treasurer.
You can be subject to significant fines if you do not present proof of insurance that meets state minimums. Leaving your insurance card at home can also lead to fines. You can appeal for a reduced penalty if you have insurance but forgot your card, which can be beneficial for your insurance claim. Discuss how these penalties can impact your injury claim with a California motorcycle accident attorney.
Penalties For A First Offense
If you receive a first offense for not having insurance, you can face the following penalties:
- Between $100 and $200, plus additional penalty assessment fees.
- Vehicle impoundment.
Penalty assessment fees can vary. The court can add different ones depending on individual circumstances. Sometimes, the costs are double or triple the fine amount. When these penalties are added, you can pay upwards of $400. If your vehicle is impounded, you may also have to pay to get it out.
Penalties For A Second Offense
When you are facing a second offense, these fines will increase substantially. Fines will now be between $200 and $500. Penalty assessments also increase. They can be between $520 and $1,300. Suppose you get a $500 fine. You can pay anywhere between $1,020 and $1,800 once a penalty assessment is applied.
On average, annual California motorcycle insurance rates start around $110 for minimum coverage. Some motorcyclists may need to shell out $700 for a full motorcycle insurance policy, depending on certain factors. So, if you think insurance is expensive, not having it can be even more costly. Getting insurance coverage is more cost-effective than facing fines and penalties. Aside from the financial burden, you can also face license suspension. Add on getting your car out of impound, and you can be out a few thousand dollars.
You might think pursuing compensation for your injuries can help you with these expenses. However, you also need to account for your medical bills and other losses. Subsequent offenses can result in higher penalties. Being caught not having insurance a second time can also hinder the claim your California motorcycle accident lawyer is building.
Penalties For Driving Without Insurance In A Motorcycle Collision
Both drivers must report the collision and present proof of financial responsibility when an accident happens. Reporting is required when injuries or property damage are over $1,000 or when there is a death. Failing to provide evidence of financial responsibility can be detrimental to your claim and lead to significant legal penalties. In some cases, California may suspend your license for a year. They may also charge you fines and impound your bike, leading to towing and storage fees.
After the year passes, you can apply to reinstate your driving privileges. When applying, you have to show proof of financial responsibility. A subsequent offense can result in a license suspension of up to four years. Penalties for a first offense involving a collision are fines between $100 and $200, plus penalty assessments between $260 and $520. Once you complete your one-year suspension, you must maintain an SR-22 and proof of financial responsibility for three years.
Subsequent offenses involving a collision will increase fines between $200 and $500, with penalty assessments of $520 and $1,300. You will have a four-year license suspension. After the first year of suspension, you may be required to provide an SR-22 and apply for restricted driving privileges. In all instances, you can have your motorcycle impounded.
Arash Lawโs motorcycle accident attorneys can work with the insurance company to assess your options. Our goal is to help you throughout the legal process, from filing your claim to getting a resolution.
Timeframe For Getting Insurance After Buying A Motorcycle
When the transaction occurs at the dealership, you must have insurance before you leave the premises. Sometimes, you can have a 72-hour grace period. You may have to show proof of insurance for another vehicle to qualify for this grace period. This requirement is in place due to the transaction expenses and rapid loss of depreciation. You will need full coverage for leased or financed bikes. You will likely need comprehensive collision and liability provisions in your policies.
If you buy a motorcycle without financing, the insurance requirements can differ. You may have more time to purchase insurance. However, you should not ride until you have the necessary insurance coverage. You can be charged with steep fines and license suspension if you ride without insurance during or after the grace period. Driving without a motorcycle license can result in penalties of up to $1,000 and six months in jail. Check whether you have all the required documents before getting on your bike.
Legal Requirements For Riding A Motorcycle In California
It is illegal to ride a motorcycle without insurance. You will also need insurance to register your car. Insurance companies must also inform the DMV if you stop paying or do not purchase insurance. To legally ride a motorcycle, you have to complete a rider training course. The CHP must approve these courses. You must also provide a DL 389 form to get your permit. You will likely be issued an M1 or M2 permit for six months before getting a license.
Contact Our California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers!
You have legal rights if you or a loved one was involved in a California motorcycle accident. A quick call to a lawyer may help you file your claim within the two-year deadline.
Arash Law has years of experience helping clients seek compensation for their losses. We can handle complex legal matters involving motorcycle accidents.
We have provided legal representation and support to clients across the state. Reach out to our California motorcycle accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391 for a free case review.
