Injured in a Motorcycle Crash in LA? Your Rights Matter.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Los Angeles

California consistently leads the nation in registered motorcycles and, unfortunately, in motorcycle fatalities. Los Angeles County accounts for a disproportionate share of California's motorcycle crashes, with thousands of riders injured or killed annually on highways like the 405, 10, 101, and 110 freeways, as well as on surface streets throughout LA.

Lane Splitting in California

California is the only U.S. state that expressly permits lane splitting (riding between lanes of slower or stopped traffic). Under California Vehicle Code § 21658.1 and guidelines from the California Highway Patrol, lane splitting is legal when done safely and prudently.

However, insurers and opposing attorneys often try to use lane splitting as a basis to blame the motorcyclist — even when the car driver opened a door, changed lanes without signaling, or otherwise caused the crash. A knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney understands how to address this argument and protect your claim.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in LA

• Left-turn accidents — cars turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle are among the most deadly collisions
• Distracted drivers — texting or otherwise inattentive drivers who fail to see motorcycles
• Unsafe lane changes by cars cutting off motorcycles
• Dooring — parked car occupants opening doors into a motorcyclist's path
• Rear-end collisions at traffic stops
• Road hazards — gravel, potholes, oil slicks, or debris that are more dangerous on two wheels
• DUI drivers
• Speeding and aggressive driving by other motorists

Catastrophic Injuries Common in Motorcycle Accidents

Unlike car occupants, motorcyclists have almost no protection in a crash. Injuries are frequently severe:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) — even with a helmet
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Road rash — ranging from surface abrasions to deep tissue damage requiring skin grafts
• Broken legs, arms, wrists, and collarbones
• Internal organ injuries
• Amputations
• Facial and dental injuries
• Wrongful death

California Helmet Law

Under California Vehicle Code § 27803, all motorcycle riders and passengers are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet. Failure to wear a helmet can affect your injury claim — opposing parties may argue that a helmetless rider's head injuries were exacerbated by their own choice. An experienced attorney can address this defense and still pursue full compensation.

Proving Liability in a Motorcycle Accident

Evidence is critical in motorcycle accident cases because of the inherent bias many jurors and insurance adjusters have against motorcyclists. Important evidence includes:

• The police report (CHP 555 or LAPD report)
• Traffic camera and dashcam footage
• Eyewitness statements
• Accident reconstruction analysis
• Cell phone records showing whether the other driver was distracted
• Medical records and expert testimony regarding injuries
• Photos and video of the crash scene, road conditions, and damage

Uninsured Motorist Coverage in California

California requires all vehicle owners to carry minimum liability insurance, but a significant number of drivers on LA roads are uninsured or underinsured. If you were hit by an uninsured driver, your own uninsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage may apply. An attorney can help you navigate your own insurance policy and maximize your recovery.