California is one of the most motorcycle-friendly states in the U.S., but riding on two wheels comes with serious responsibilities and risks. Understanding the state’s motorcycle laws is essential for your safety and legal protection.
At Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers, we’ve been helping injured riders recover compensation for decades. With 80 years of combined experience and over $100 million recovered, we know the ins and outs of California motorcycle law and how to protect your rights if you’ve been hurt in a crash.
Call (858) 551-2090 or contact us today for a free consultation with a California motorcycle accident lawyer.
How Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help With Your Motorcycle Accident Claim in California
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, the legal process can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies may try to minimize your injuries or shift the blame to avoid paying what you’re owed. Having a trusted legal team on your side can make all the difference.
When you hire Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers, our motorcycle accident attorneys in California can:
- Investigate your motorcycle accident and identify all responsible parties
- Collect evidence, including crash reports and witness statements
- Work with accident reconstruction specialists and medical experts
- Assess the full extent of your damages
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
- Take your case to court if necessary to fight for fair compensation
Our team understands the unique challenges motorcycle riders face. We’ll handle every detail of your claim so you can focus on recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.
Key Motorcycle Laws All California Riders Should Know
California has several specific laws that apply to motorcyclists. Following these rules can keep you safe and help preserve your right to recover damages if someone else causes a crash.
Here are some of the most important motorcycle laws in California:
- Helmet law: California requires all riders and passengers to wear a U.S. DOT-compliant helmet at all times, regardless of age. Failure to wear a helmet not only puts your life at risk but may affect your compensation in an injury claim.
- Motorcycle license: You must have a valid Class M1 or M2 license to operate a motorcycle. Riders must pass both written and skills tests, and younger riders under age 21 must complete the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP).
- Lane splitting: California was the first U.S. state to make lane splitting legal. While the practice is allowed, it must be done safely and responsibly. CHP guidelines recommend avoiding lane splitting at high speeds or in heavy traffic.
- Equipment requirements: All motorcycles must have front and rear turn signals, functioning brakes, mirrors, and mufflers. Handlebars cannot be more than six inches above shoulder height when seated.
- Passenger rules: To carry a passenger, your motorcycle must have a proper passenger seat and footrests. Riders should never carry passengers unless their bike is specifically designed for it.
Breaking these laws not only increases your risk of injury, but it can also be used against you in a legal claim if you’re involved in an accident.
What Happens if You’re Hit While Following the Law?
Even if you’re following every rule, other drivers often fail to look out for motorcycles. Distracted driving, failure to yield, and unsafe lane changes are common causes of motorcycle accidents.
If you’re injured in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, you have the right to file a personal injury claim.
Through this claim, you may be able to recover both economic and non-economic damages:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Costs of rehabilitation and therapy
Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers has successfully represented countless injured motorcyclists across California. We understand how to prove negligence and fight for maximum compensation under state law.
Can You Still Get Compensation if You’re Partly at Fault for a Motorcycle Accident in California?
Yes. California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident, but your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example, if you were 20% at fault and your damages total $100,000, you could still recover $80,000. Insurance companies often try to exaggerate your share of the blame to pay you less, especially in motorcycle cases.
Our attorneys will push back against unfair fault claims and make sure you’re treated fairly.
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in California?
Under California law, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If your case involves a government agency, the deadline could be even shorter.
Missing the deadline can mean losing your right to compensation forever, and there are only exceptions for rare cases. That’s why it’s important to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after a crash. We’ll make sure your claim is filed on time and backed by strong evidence.
Contact Our California Motorcycle Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident or have questions about your rights as a rider in California, Pines Salomon Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help. With 80 years of combined experience and over $100 million recovered, our team has the experience and dedication to fight for what you deserve.
Call today or contact us online to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation. Let our California motorcycle accident attorneys help you understand your legal options and get started on the road to recovery.