California Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable people on California roads. Without the protection of an enclosed vehicle, riders face a dramatically higher risk of serious injury in any collision. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are approximately 29 times more likely to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled than passenger car occupants.
At Smilove & Rosenblum APC, we are committed to protecting the rights of injured motorcyclists throughout California. We understand the unique challenges riders face, both on the road and when pursuing injury claims.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other motorists who fail to see or respect riders. Common causes include drivers making left turns in front of motorcycles, vehicles merging into a rider’s lane without checking blind spots, dooring from parked vehicles, rear-end collisions, road hazards such as potholes, gravel, and uneven pavement, defective motorcycle parts, and driving under the influence. California is one of the few states that expressly permits lane splitting under Vehicle Code Section 21658.1, provided it is done safely. If you were injured while lane splitting, you may still have a valid claim depending on the circumstances.
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Motorcycle Accident Injuries
The injuries sustained in motorcycle crashes are often severe and life-altering. Our clients have suffered road rash and severe skin abrasions, broken bones and crush injuries, traumatic brain injuries even with helmet use, spinal cord injuries and paralysis, amputations, internal organ damage, and facial and dental injuries. These injuries frequently require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and may result in permanent disability. We work with medical experts to ensure every aspect of your injury and future care needs is documented.
Overcoming Bias Against Motorcyclists
One of the biggest challenges in motorcycle accident cases is the bias that riders are inherently reckless. Insurance companies often exploit this perception to reduce or deny claims. Our attorneys know how to counter this bias with evidence, expert testimony, and a compelling presentation of the facts. We fight to ensure you are treated fairly regardless of your choice of vehicle.
California Motorcycle Laws
California law requires all riders and passengers to wear DOT-compliant helmets (Vehicle Code Section 27803). While failure to wear a helmet does not bar recovery, it may be used to reduce your damages under comparative negligence principles. Understanding these nuances is critical to protecting the full value of your claim.
Free Consultation
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Smilove & Rosenblum APC for a free consultation. Call (800) 300-3226 or request a consultation online. We handle all motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis.
Related Articles from Our Blog
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage in California
- Dangerous Road Conditions and Government Liability
- California Comparative Fault in Accident Claims
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Cases
Does California’s lane-splitting law affect my motorcycle accident claim?
California is the only state that explicitly permits lane splitting under Vehicle Code §21658.1. However, lane splitting must be done in a safe and prudent manner. If you were lane splitting at a reasonable speed and the other driver made an unsafe lane change, you can still recover damages. California’s pure comparative negligence system (Li v. Yellow Cab Co.) allows recovery even if you are partially at fault, though your award may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What types of injuries are common in motorcycle accidents?
Motorcyclists frequently suffer traumatic brain injuries (even with helmets), spinal cord injuries, road rash requiring skin grafts, broken bones, and internal organ damage. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and may result in permanent disability. The severity of motorcycle injuries typically results in higher compensation compared to standard car accident cases.
Should I accept the insurance company’s first settlement offer after a motorcycle accident?
No. Initial settlement offers from insurance companies are almost always significantly lower than the true value of your claim. Insurers often try to settle quickly before the full extent of your injuries is known. You should reach maximum medical improvement before considering any settlement, and consulting with a personal injury attorney can help ensure you receive fair compensation for all current and future damages.
Mga Madalas Itanong Tungkol sa Aksidente sa Motorsiklo (Motorcycle Accident)
Frequently Asked Questions in Tagalog
Paano nakakaapekto ang lane-splitting law ng California sa aking claim?
Ang California lang ang estado na hayagang pinapayagan ang lane splitting sa ilalim ng Vehicle Code §21658.1. Gayunpaman, ang lane splitting ay dapat gawin nang ligtas at maingat. Kung ikaw ay nag-lane split sa makatwirang bilis at ang ibang driver ay gumawa ng unsafe lane change, maaari ka pa ring makakuha ng damages. Ang pure comparative negligence system ng California (Li v. Yellow Cab Co.) ay nagpapahintulot ng recovery kahit ikaw ay bahagyang may kasalanan.
Dapat ko bang tanggapin ang unang settlement offer ng insurance company?
Hindi. Ang mga unang settlement offer ng insurance company ay halos palaging mas mababa kaysa sa tunay na halaga ng iyong claim. Madalas nilang subukang mag-settle agad bago pa malaman ang buong lawak ng iyong mga injury. Dapat mong hintayin na maabot mo ang maximum medical improvement bago isaalang-alang ang anumang settlement. Ang pagkonsulta sa isang personal injury attorney ay makakatulong na matiyak na makakakuha ka ng patas na kabayaran.
Tumutulong ba kayo sa mga Filipino na naaksidente sa motorsiklo?
Oo, marami sa aming mga kliyente ay mula sa Filipino community sa California. Nauunawaan namin ang mga hamon na kinakaharap ng mga pamilyang Filipino pagkatapos ng aksidente — mula sa mga medikal na gastos hanggang sa pagkawala ng sahod. May mga Tagalog-speaking staff kami na handang tumulong sa inyo sa buong proseso ng inyong kaso. Libreng konsultasyon — tumawag sa (800) 300-3226.