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Riding a motorcycle in Los Angeles can be exhilarating—but it also comes with risks. The bustling streets, distracted drivers, and unexpected road hazards create a dangerous environment for motorcyclists. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be dealing with devastating injuries, mounting medical bills, and a lot of unanswered questions. Who will cover your expenses? How will you get justice for the pain and suffering caused by someone else’s negligence?
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we understand how overwhelming this experience can be. We know the struggles motorcyclists face after an accident, from insurance companies that try to minimize payouts to the financial and emotional toll of recovery. Without the right legal guidance, you might feel pressured to settle for less than you deserve or, worse, give up on your rightful compensation altogether.
That’s why we are here to help. Our team of dedicated motorcycle accident lawyers specializes in fighting for riders like you. With years of experience and a proven track record of success, we’ll handle the legal battles while you focus on healing.
Countrywide Trial Lawyers, headed by managing Attorney Shawn S. Rokni, handles a wide range of personal injury cases, including motorcycle accidents and wrongful death cases. From securing maximum compensation to holding negligent parties accountable, we are relentless in our pursuit of justice for our clients.
Don’t let someone else’s mistake derail your future. Call Countrywide Trial Lawyers today for a free consultation. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve—because when you’re with us, you’re never riding alone.
Motorcycle accidents occur for a variety of reasons throughout Los Angele, commonly occurring in areas like I-405 or US-101. Understanding the common causes is critical for motorcycle riders and accident victims seeking to protect their rights. While some accidents are unavoidable, many result from preventable factors involving other drivers, road conditions, or equipment failures.
Negligent drivers are a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. Many collisions occur because drivers fail to notice or respect the rights of motorcycle riders. Common examples include:
Poor road conditions pose a unique danger to motorcyclists, as two-wheeled vehicles are more affected by uneven or slippery surfaces. Common hazards include:
Mechanical failures in motorcycles or other vehicles involved in a crash can contribute to accidents. Examples include:
Adverse weather such as rain or fog significantly increases the risk of a motorcycle wreck. Slippery roads reduce traction, while fog or heavy rain reduces visibility, making it difficult for motorcycle riders and drivers alike to avoid collisions.
While negligent drivers are often to blame, rider error also contributes to some motorcycle accidents. Examples include:
Motorcycle accident injuries tend to be severe due to the lack of protection for riders. While helmets and other safety gear can reduce the risk of fatal injuries, even minor crashes can result in significant harm.
Motorcycle crashes often result in catastrophic injuries or even fatalities. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:
The effects of a motorcycle accident often extend beyond physical injuries. Accident victims frequently experience:
Many motorcycle accident victims face lifelong challenges, including:
Motorcycle riders in California enjoy a mix of freedom and responsibility on the state’s scenic roads. With some of the most motorcycle-friendly laws in the country, California emphasizes safety, accessibility, and accountability for both motorcyclists and other road users.
California has one of the strictest helmet laws in the United States. Under the California Vehicle Code Section 27803, all motorcycle riders and passengers are required to wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet while operating or riding a motorcycle. This law applies regardless of age or experience level.
The helmet law is designed to reduce the risk of severe head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, which are common in motorcycle accidents. Studies consistently show that wearing a helmet significantly decreases the likelihood of fatal injuries in a motorcycle crash.
Non-compliance with the helmet law can result in fines and legal consequences, and it may also affect the outcome of a motorcycle accident claim by suggesting negligence on the rider's part.
California is the only state in the U.S. where lane splitting—riding between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction—is explicitly legal. This practice is governed by the California Vehicle Code Section 21658.1, which permits lane splitting under certain conditions:
While lane splitting can help reduce congestion and save time, safety remains a key concern. Riders are advised to wear protective gear, remain alert, and avoid splitting lanes in unsafe conditions.
Accidents involving lane splitting can complicate liability determinations, making it essential for motorcyclists to consult an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer if they are involved in a crash.
Motorcyclists in California are entitled to the same rights as drivers of passenger vehicles but must also adhere to specific rules tailored to motorcycles. These include:
Violations of traffic laws, such as speeding or reckless riding, can affect a rider’s ability to recover damages in a personal injury lawsuit if an accident occurs.
California requires all motorcyclists to carry minimum liability insurance. The state’s mandatory coverage levels are:
While these amounts satisfy the legal minimum, they may not cover the full extent of damages in the event of a motorcycle collision, especially if the accident involves severe injuries or significant property damage.
Riders are encouraged to consider additional coverage, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and medical payments coverage, to better protect themselves and their passengers.
Filing a motorcycle accident claim in Los Angeles involves several steps. Following the correct procedures ensures that accident victims can secure maximum compensation for their losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Insurance companies are primarily focused on protecting their profits, which means they often aim to reduce the amount they pay to accident victims.
When it comes to motorcycle accident claims, this dynamic can be even more pronounced due to inherent biases against motorcyclists. Riders are often unfairly perceived as reckless or negligent, which insurers may use to argue against liability or reduce the value of a claim.
One of the most significant hurdles motorcycle accident victims face is overcoming the assumption that they were partially or wholly at fault for the accident. Insurance adjusters may attempt to use this bias to diminish or deny claims, regardless of the actual circumstances of the crash.
Insurance companies may employ various strategies to reduce payouts, such as:
California operates under comparative negligence law, which allows accident victims to recover compensation even if they are partially at fault.
However, the compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to the victim. Insurance companies often exploit this rule to argue that motorcyclists bear a greater share of the blame, further complicating the claims process.
Hiring an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is essential for leveling the playing field with insurance companies and ensuring your rights are protected. Here’s how a lawyer can help:
Navigating California’s motorcycle accident laws, including comparative negligence and liability issues, requires legal expertise. A lawyer can ensure that the rules are applied fairly and that any attempts to assign unwarranted fault to the victim are challenged effectively.
A skilled attorney is familiar with the tactics used by insurance adjusters to reduce payouts. They can:
An experienced attorney will thoroughly evaluate the damages in your case, including both economic and non-economic losses. They can help prove liability by gathering key evidence such as:
By presenting a comprehensive and compelling case, a lawyer ensures that accident victims receive the maximum compensation they deserve.
If an insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, a motorcycle accident lawyer can take the case to court. Having an attorney with litigation experience ensures that victims have strong representation and increases the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
The compensation available in motorcycle accident cases is designed to address the wide-ranging impacts of a crash, from financial losses to emotional distress. Understanding the types of damages and the factors influencing compensation can help victims and their attorneys build a strong claim.
These damages cover the tangible financial losses incurred as a result of the accident. They include:
Non-economic damages address the intangible losses that victims suffer, including:
In rare cases, courts may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party for egregious or reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence or engaging in intentional misconduct. These damages are not intended to compensate the victim but to deter similar actions in the future.
Several factors determine the amount of compensation a victim can recover in a motorcycle accident case:
Liability in motorcycle accident cases typically hinges on the concept of negligence. To prove negligence, the injured motorcyclist must demonstrate four key elements:
Gathering evidence is critical for establishing fault in a motorcycle accident. Key types of evidence include:
A police report often serves as a foundational document in a motorcycle accident case. It provides an objective summary of the crash, including details about the vehicles involved, statements from the drivers, and the officer's assessment of fault. Requesting a copy of the report is an essential first step.
Statements from witnesses who saw the accident can corroborate your account and help establish the at-fault party’s actions. Eyewitnesses can provide valuable insights into behaviors like reckless driving or failure to yield.
Photos and videos taken at the scene of the accident can provide crucial details, such as:
Additionally, nearby surveillance cameras or dashcams may have captured the accident in real time.
Commercial vehicles and some newer cars are equipped with black boxes or electronic data recorders (EDRs) that log important information, such as speed, braking, and steering inputs. This data can be critical in proving that the at-fault driver acted negligently.
Accident reconstruction experts can analyze the crash and create detailed reports to explain how it occurred. Medical experts can testify about the extent and cause of your injuries, linking them directly to the accident.
Selecting the right motorcycle accident lawyer is one of the most important decisions an injured rider can make after a crash. A skilled attorney can provide essential support in navigating the complex legal process, countering insurance company tactics, and securing fair compensation for damages. For motorcycle accident victims in Los Angeles, finding a lawyer with the right expertise and qualities is critical to achieving a successful outcome.
When evaluating potential attorneys, it’s essential to consider their experience, knowledge, and reputation. Below are the key qualities to look for in a Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer:
Motorcycle accident cases differ significantly from other personal injury claims. The unique dynamics of motorcycle crashes, such as lane splitting and the high risk of severe injuries, require specialized knowledge. Look for a lawyer who has extensive experience handling motorcycle accident cases, as they will be better equipped to understand the challenges riders face and anticipate insurance company tactics.
An attorney with a history of representing injured motorcyclists will also have a deeper understanding of common motorcycle accident injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, and how to document these damages effectively in a personal injury claim.
California’s motorcycle laws, including lane-splitting regulations and helmet requirements, play a crucial role in determining liability and the strength of your case. A lawyer familiar with these laws and the nuances of Los Angeles courts will be better positioned to navigate the local legal system. Their knowledge of local judges, court procedures, and opposing attorneys can provide valuable insights into how to build a compelling case.
A proven track record is one of the most reliable indicators of an attorney’s competence. Ask about the lawyer’s history of securing favorable settlements and verdicts for motorcycle accident victims.
An attorney who has consistently achieved successful outcomes demonstrates their ability to negotiate effectively with insurance companies and, when necessary, present a strong case in court.
Before hiring a lawyer, it’s important to schedule a consultation to discuss your case and evaluate their suitability. Use this opportunity to ask detailed questions about their experience, approach, and fees. Below are some essential questions to ask:
Motorcycle accident cases often involve unique factors, such as the biases motorcyclists face or the challenges of proving fault in cases involving lane splitting. Ask the lawyer about their experience handling cases similar to yours, including the types of injuries involved and the outcomes they achieved.
Clear and consistent communication is vital during the legal process. Ask how the attorney plans to keep you informed about the progress of your case. Will you have direct access to them, or will a paralegal or associate handle most of the communication? Understanding their communication style and availability can help set expectations.
Most motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they win your case. However, it’s important to clarify the specific terms, including:
A transparent explanation of their fee structure ensures there are no surprises later.
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts by blaming the motorcyclist or undervaluing the extent of their injuries. Ask the lawyer about their approach to dealing with insurance adjusters and how they plan to counter these tactics to maximize your compensation.
In some larger law firms, senior attorneys may delegate cases to junior associates. Ensure that the lawyer you consult with will be the one handling your case and that they are fully committed to advocating for your interests.
While the qualities and questions above are critical, there are other factors to consider when selecting the best motorcycle accident lawyer for your case:
Research the lawyer’s reputation online by reading client testimonials and reviews. Look for consistent positive feedback about their professionalism, responsiveness, and results. You can also check for disciplinary actions or complaints through the California State Bar website.
Trust and comfort are essential in any attorney-client relationship. Choose a lawyer who listens attentively, answers your questions clearly, and makes you feel confident in their ability to handle your case.
Most motorcycle accident lawyers in Los Angeles offer a free consultation to discuss your case and evaluate whether they are a good fit. Use this opportunity to gauge their level of interest in your case and their willingness to fight for your rights.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, you need someone on your side who truly understands the unique challenges motorcyclists face. Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can feel overwhelming—hospital bills are piling up, insurance companies are pressuring you to settle, and you’re left wondering how to move forward.
At Countrywide Trial Lawyers, we are here to provide the support and legal expertise you need. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys know how to navigate the complexities of California law, fight against lowball insurance offers, and build a strong case to secure the compensation you deserve. Whether it’s for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, or other damages, we are relentless in pursuing justice for our clients.
Time is critical after an accident, so don’t wait to take action. Evidence can fade, and the sooner we begin working on your case, the stronger it will be. Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your recovery.
Contact Countrywide Trial Lawyers today by calling 844-844-9119 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Let us help you get back on the road to recovery and justice.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is for general information purposes only. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.