Motorcycle Licensing Requirements In San Diego

Were you injured in a motorcycle accident in San Diego, CA? Riding a motorcycle is a far more dangerous endeavor than driving a car. In fact, according to 2022 statistics, motorcyclists are 22 times more likely to die and four times more likely to get injured in a motorcycle accident than passengers in a car accident.

A major cause of motorcycle crashes is inexperience. Unlicensed motorcycle operators are nearly twice as likely to die in a motorcycle collision as those with licenses. And that’s why motorcycle licensing requirements in San Diego matter so much.

After a crash, a San Diego motorcycle accident lawyer from Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, LLP can help you, whether you’re licensed or unlicensed, fight for fair injury compensation.

Contact our office today for a free consultation at (858) 551-2090.

How Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, LLP Can Help After An Accident In San Diego, CA

How Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, LLP Can Help After An Accident In San Diego, CA

For many decades, Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, LLP has been guiding clients in San Diego, California, through their legal claims. Our San Diego personal injury lawyers have over 80 years of combined legal experience fighting at-fault parties and powerful insurers. We have successfully recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for injured people like you.

Our firm provides the following services to those injured by the negligent or wrongful actions of others:

  • A discussion regarding their injuries and legal options
  • An investigation by way of assembling records, reports, and other evidence
  • Filing an insurance claim and handling negotiations with at-fault parties’ insurers
  • Preparation of lawsuits when insurers fail to settle claims

Attorneys at our firm have been recognized for their accomplishments by Super Lawyers, Avvo, and Martindale-Hubbell, among other reputable organizations.

Your injuries could affect both your health and finances, so do not hesitate to contact Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, LLP, to schedule a free consultation with an experienced San Diego motorcycle accident attorney.

What Factors Affect The Value Of Motorcycle Accident Cases?

Some factors that may affect the value of a motorcyclist’s case include:

  • The severity of your injuries
  • The quality of the medical treatment you have received
  • The proportion of fault each party bears for their injuries
  • Lost wages
  • Whether you have pain and suffering

Riders with more severe injuries will usually recover more compensation.

What Types Of Compensation Are Available To Accident Victims?

Motorcycle crash victims can recover compensation for economic losses, like out-of-pocket costs, lost income, and medical expenses, as well as for non-economic losses caused by things like disabilities, disfigurement, and pain and suffering.

What Fees Do Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Charge?

Motorcycle crash lawyers charge a contingency fee based on the compensation they recover. That means that you will only pay a legal fee if your lawyer wins or settles your case. If your lawyer loses, you won’t have to pay them anything.

Can I Recover Compensation If I’m Being Blamed For A Motorcycle Accident In California?

A common defense drivers use against riders bringing forth motorcycle crash claims is that the rider caused the collision. Under California law, a driver can reduce their liability by shifting some of the blame to the motorcyclist. For example, a motorcyclist would only recover 75% of their losses if they were found to be 25% at fault for the crash.

Motorcycle licensing requirements in San Diego vary according to the applicant’s age. Applicants under 21 must pass a motorcycle safety course as well as the DMV’s written and road tests. The DMV will grant an instruction permit. After riding safely on the permit for at least six months, a rider can request their full motorcycle license.

Riders 21 and older do not need to take the motorcycle safety course. They can also apply directly for a full motorcycle license instead of starting with an instruction permit. 

Despite these relatively lax standards, many riders still lack licenses. Though unlicensed riders are not automatically barred from recovering injury compensation, their inexperience might be grounds for the driver to shift blame to them.

We’ll Fight To Recover Compensation For All Of Your Motorcycle Accident Injuries

The most common body parts injured in motorcycle accidents include the upper and lower limbs, as well as the head. California enforces a motorcycle helmet law meant to reduce the risk of head and brain injuries. However, even riders who abide by it are still at risk of injury in an accident.

Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen In San Diego, CA?

According to the 2020 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) Report, the following motorcycle operator behaviors caused the most fatal and injury motorcycle accidents in California that year:

  • Speeding
  • Turning improperly
  • DUI

While experienced riders may commit these violations, each of them is a sign of inexperience. Riders who have taken the motorcycle safety course learn how to maneuver their motorcycles, including cornering and changing lanes in traffic. Unlicensed riders are more likely to hit the curb or tip over while turning or failing to leave enough space when passing.

What Is The Deadline For Filing A Lawsuit For A Motorcycle Accident In California?

California has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. If you fail to file within that short window, a judge will dismiss your case unless you can offer an excuse recognized under state law.

Contact Our San Diego Motorcycle Accident Lawyers For A Free Consultation

Careless, intoxicated, and distracted drivers can injure even the most experienced riders. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you can seek legal help today. Contact Pines Salomon Injury Lawyers, LLP for a free consultation with a San Diego motorcycle accident lawyer.