Motorcycle accidents in California result in some of the most severe injuries on the road. Without the protection of an enclosed vehicle, motorcyclists are exposed to the full force of a collision — making broken bones, spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and road rash common outcomes. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, Krash Lawyers is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.
We handle motorcycle accident cases throughout Southern California including Ventura County, Los Angeles County, and Orange County. No fees unless we win.
California Motorcycle Laws You Need to Know
California has specific laws that affect motorcycle accident claims:
- Lane splitting is legal in California under Vehicle Code § 21658.1 — but speed and manner matter in determining fault
- Helmets are required for all riders under Vehicle Code § 27803. Failure to wear a helmet may reduce your damages
- Comparative fault applies — even if you were partly at fault, you can still recover (Li v. Yellow Cab Co.)
- Two-year statute of limitations under CCP § 335.1 to file your lawsuit
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
- Drivers failing to see motorcyclists (left-turn accidents)
- Unsafe lane changes by cars and trucks
- Rear-end collisions at intersections
- Dooring — a car door opening into a rider’s path
- Drunk or distracted driving
- Road hazards: potholes, gravel, uneven pavement
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Defective motorcycle parts (product liability)
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
- Road rash — severe skin abrasions requiring skin grafts
- Broken bones — arms, legs, wrists, ribs, and collarbone
- Traumatic brain injuries — even with a helmet
- Spinal cord injuries — paralysis, herniated discs
- Internal organ damage
- Amputations
- Wrongful death
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in California
- Call 911 — get police and medical help immediately
- Document the scene — photos of both vehicles, road conditions, injuries
- Get the other driver’s insurance and contact info
- Get witness names and numbers
- Seek medical attention — even if you feel okay
- Do NOT give recorded statements to insurance adjusters
- Contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible
How Insurance Companies Handle Motorcycle Claims
Insurance companies routinely use bias against motorcyclists — often portraying riders as reckless to minimize payouts. They may argue lane splitting contributed to the accident, dispute helmet use, or downplay your injuries. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney knows these tactics and counters them with evidence, expert witnesses, and aggressive negotiation.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
- Medical expenses — emergency care, surgery, rehabilitation, ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Motorcycle repair or replacement
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Wrongful death damages if a loved one was killed
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Call Now.
Free consultation. No fees unless we win. Serving all of Southern California.
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