Motorcycle Accident Lawyer — Los Angeles
Injured in a Motorcycle Crash in LA? Your Rights Matter.
Motorcyclists face unique dangers on Los Angeles roads and freeways. When a crash happens, injuries are often catastrophic. Insurers frequently try to unfairly blame the rider — even when the other driver is clearly at fault. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney knows how to combat these biases.
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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.
Motorcycle Accident FAQs
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in California?
Under California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If a government vehicle or road defect caused your crash, you must file a government tort claim within 6 months. Missing these deadlines can permanently bar your right to compensation.
Is lane splitting legal in California, and can it affect my claim?
Yes, California is the only U.S. state that expressly permits lane splitting under Vehicle Code § 21658.1. Lane splitting is legal when done safely and prudently. Insurance companies often try to use lane splitting to blame motorcyclists, but an experienced attorney can counter this argument — especially when the other driver changed lanes without signaling or otherwise caused the crash.
How much is a motorcycle accident case worth in Los Angeles?
Motorcycle accident settlements vary widely. Minor injuries may settle for $15,000–$50,000. Serious injuries such as road rash requiring skin grafts, broken bones, or TBI can result in settlements of $100,000 to $1 million or more. Factors include injury severity, medical costs, lost income, permanent disability, and available insurance coverage. A free case evaluation is the best way to estimate your claim's value.
What if the driver who hit me was uninsured?
A significant number of drivers on Los Angeles roads are uninsured or underinsured. If you carry uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your own motorcycle policy, you can file a claim against your own insurance. California law requires insurers to offer UM/UIM coverage, though it's not mandatory to purchase. An attorney can help you maximize recovery through all available sources.
Does not wearing a helmet affect my motorcycle accident case in California?
California Vehicle Code § 27803 requires all motorcycle riders to wear a DOT-approved helmet. If you were not wearing a helmet, the defense may argue your head injuries were worsened by that choice, potentially reducing your compensation under comparative negligence. However, you can still pursue a claim — not wearing a helmet does not eliminate the other driver's liability for causing the crash.
Get an Attorney Who Understands Motorcycle Cases
Motorcycle accident claims require specialized knowledge. Connect with a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney today — free consultation, no fees unless you recover.
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