CALIFORNIA MOTORCYCLE
ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
Aggressive legal representation for victims seriously injured in motorcycle accidents in California
Zero Fees Unless We Win
Every time a motorcycle accident happens, there are real people who get hurt and their lives get turned upside down. The California motorcycle accident lawyer at RTM Law doesn’t just work on cases; we help individuals who need medical help and fair compensation.
We won’t let insurance companies reduce what you deserve. When you’re fighting for what’s right, we’re here to support you as a caring ally and a strong legal advocate.
Common Motorcycle Accidents That Lead To Injuries
- Rear-End Collisions
- T-Bone or Side-Impact Collisions
- Head-On Collisions
- Single-Motorcycle Accidents
- Multi-Vehicle Pileups
- Sideswipes
- Intersection Accidents
- Left-Turn Accidents
- Lane-Changing Accidents
- Motorcycle Run-Off-the-Road
- Dooring Accidents
- Motorcycle-Overshooting Turns
- Collisions with Fixed Objects
- Group Riding Accidents
- Weather-Related Accidents
Top Causes of Motorbike Accidents in California
- Speeding: Riding at excessive speeds, which reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
- Lane Splitting: Riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, which can be risky if not done safely.
- Distracted Riding: Not paying full attention to the road due to texting, phone use, or other distractions.
- Impaired Riding (Alcohol and Drugs): Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs, impairing judgment and coordination.
- Inexperienced Riders: Lack of experience and skill in handling a motorcycle safely on the road.
- Reckless Maneuvers: Engaging in dangerous actions such as sudden lane changes or aggressive overtaking.
- Poor Road Conditions: Riding on roads with potholes, debris, or slippery surfaces that can lead to accidents.
- Vehicle Blind Spots: Motorcycles can be easily overlooked in a vehicle’s blind spot, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Running Red Lights or Stop Signs: Ignoring traffic signals and signs can lead to dangerous intersections accidents.
- Mechanical Failures: Motorcycle malfunctions or breakdowns that can cause accidents if not properly maintained.
Hurt in a motorcycel accident
in California?
Waiting will hurt your case.
Call our motorcycle accident lawyers
Free consultation. Available 24/7.
Why Choose RTM Law for Your Motorcycle Accident Case?
Exceptional Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Our team is composed of highly skilled motorcycle accident lawyers who specialize in California’s personal injury law. They bring years of expertise to handle even the most intricate cases with precision.
Client-First Approach
At our motorcycle accident law firm, we tailor our legal strategies to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring that your specific concerns are at the forefront of your case.
Millions in Successful Settlements
Our California motorcycle accident attorney has a proven track record of securing multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for motorcycle accident victims, providing both peace of mind and financial stability.
Victim of a motorcycle accident?
We can help you file an injury claim.
No fees until we win. Available 24/7.
Injured in a motorcycle accident?
Our expert motorcycle accident lawyers
can help you file a claim.
Free consultation. No fees until we win.
California Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Motorbike accidents continue to be a concern in the state.
In 2020, there were 5,579 motorcyclists killed in traffic accidents, constituting 14% of all traffic fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This marked the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities since the inception of the Fatal Accident Reporting System (FARS) in 1975. Notably, there was an 11% increase in the number of motorcyclist fatalities from 2019, rising from 5,044 to 5,579.
While there was a 2% decrease in the estimated number of injured motorcyclists in 2020, with 82,528 reported injuries compared to 83,814 in 2019, the stark reality remains that motorcyclist fatalities occurred nearly 28 times more frequently per vehicle mile traveled than passenger car occupant fatalities in traffic crashes. Disturbingly, in 2020, 36% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were riding without valid motorcycle licenses.
Riders involved in fatal accidents in 2020 had higher rates of alcohol impairment compared to drivers of any other motor vehicle type, with 27% being impaired by alcohol, while the figures stood at 23% for passenger cars, 19% for light trucks, and only 3% for large trucks.
These figures confirm the dangerous reality of motorbike riding not just in California streets and highways, but anywhere in the country.
California Laws for Motorcyclists
In California, motorcyclists must adhere to a set of laws and regulations designed to ensure their safety on the road. These laws cover aspects such as helmet requirements, lane splitting, and licensing, all aimed at promoting safe and responsible motorcycle riding in the Golden State.
Helmet Requirement
California law mandates that all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear helmets. The helmets must be approved by the Department of Transportation (DOT) and meet specific safety standards.
Lane Splitting
California is one of the few states where lane splitting is allowed. Motorcyclists can ride between lanes of slow or stopped traffic, but it must be done safely and prudently.
Licensing
To operate a motorcycle in California, you must obtain a motorcycle-specific license or add a motorcycle endorsement to your existing driver’s license. A motorcycle learner’s permit is also available for those learning to ride
Insurance
All motorcycle riders must carry liability insurance to cover potential damages in case of an accident. The minimum insurance requirements vary depending on the circumstances.
Equipment Requirements
Motorcycles must have certain equipment, such as working headlights, taillights, turn signals, and rearview mirrors, to ensure safe operation.
Handlebar Height
Handlebars should not be positioned higher than the rider’s shoulder height when seated on the motorcycle.
Passenger Rules
If carrying a passenger, the motorcycle must be equipped with a proper passenger seat and footrests.
Noise Limits
Motorcycles must meet specific noise emission standards to prevent excessive noise pollution.
Use of Headlights
In California, it is mandatory for motorcyclists to use their headlights during both daytime and nighttime hours for increased visibility.
Child Passenger Rules
Children must be properly seated in a sidecar or on a passenger seat equipped with proper safety restraints.
DUI Laws
The same laws that apply to drivers of cars and trucks also apply to motorcyclists. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal and can result in severe penalties.
Lane Sharing Guidelines
While lane splitting is allowed, it must be done with caution. Motorcyclists should not exceed a certain speed relative to the flow of traffic, and they should avoid splitting lanes near large vehicles or at high speeds.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim After a Motorcycle Accident
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health comes first. Get medical treatment for your injuries, even if they seem minor at first.
- Collect Evidence: Gather evidence related to the accident, including photographs of the scene, damage to your motorcycle, and your injuries. If there are witnesses, try to get their contact information.
- Report the Accident: Notify the police and your insurance company about the accident. A police report can be valuable evidence.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep records of all medical bills, repair costs for your motorcycle, and any other expenses related to the accident.
- Consult an Attorney: Consider hiring a California motorcycle accident lawyer. They can help protect your rights and navigate the legal process.
- Determine Liability: Your attorney will investigate the accident to determine who was at fault. This is crucial for establishing liability and pursuing a claim.
- File a Claim: Work with your attorney to file a personal injury claim against the at-fault party’s insurance company. This claim will seek compensation for your medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Negotiate a Settlement: Your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf to reach a fair settlement. This may involve back-and-forth negotiations.
- Litigation (if necessary): If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney may file a lawsuit and take your case to court.
- Trial: If your case goes to trial, both sides will present their evidence, and a judge or jury will make a final decision on the compensation you deserve.
- Receive Compensation: If successful, you will receive compensation to cover your medical expenses, motorcycle repairs, lost income, and any other damages you’ve suffered due to the accident.
Remember that each personal injury case is unique, and the process may vary based on the specific circumstances of your motorcycle accident. Consulting with a skilled California motorcycle accident lawyer is crucial to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Injured in a motorcycle accident?
Our expert motorcycle accident lawyers
can help you file a claim.
Free consultation. No fees until we win.
Client Success Stories
Our track record speaks for itself. We are five-star rated on Google!
California Motorcycle Accident Attorney: FAQs
After ensuring your safety and seeking medical attention if needed, it’s important to gather information at the scene. This includes exchanging contact and insurance details with the other party, taking photos, and getting witness information. Informing the police and reporting the accident is also crucial.
Motorcycle accident victims in California can typically seek compensation for various damages, including medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. An experienced attorney can help you assess the full extent of your damages and pursue appropriate compensation.
California follows a comparative negligence system, which means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be eligible to recover damages. However, the amount of compensation you receive could be reduced based on your degree of fault. An attorney can help assess how this may apply to your case.
The time it takes to resolve a motorcycle accident case in California can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, negotiations with insurance companies, and the court’s schedule if a lawsuit is filed. Some cases may settle within a few months, while others could take a year or more. Your attorney can provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific circumstances.
Hiring a motorcycle accident attorney at RTM Law typically comes at no upfront cost. We operate on a “contingency fee” basis, meaning we only get paid if we win your case.
Our fee is a percentage of the compensation you receive from your claim’s successful resolution. If we don’t secure a favorable outcome for you, you won’t owe us any legal fees. This approach ensures that quality legal representation is accessible to all, regardless of their financial situation.
Injured due to a motorcycle accident?
Our expert motorcycle accident lawyers
can help you file a claim.
Free consultation. No fees until we win.
Call a California Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today.
Free Consultation.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in California, remember that RTM Law is here to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve.
Our experienced team of motorcycle accident attorneys is dedicated to guiding you through the legal process with compassion and expertise. With a commitment to your case and a “no-win, no-fee” policy, we’re ready to fight for your rights and ensure justice is served.
Contact RTM Law, and let us be your trusted advocates during this challenging time. Your recovery starts with us.
Call RTM Law today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the road to recovery.
Millions of Dollars Recovered for Accident Victims
Our California personal injury law firm has consistently obtained maximum outcomes and recovered millions for our clients
RTM WINS
$5,000,000
Global Settlement
Trucking Accident
RTM WINS
$2,000,000
Wrongful Death
Auto Collision
RTM WINS
$1,000,000
Global Settlement
Auto v. Truck
RTM WINS
$900,000
Car Accident
Auto v. Auto
RTM WINS
$485,000
Rear End Auto Collision
Involving Mild Brain Injury
RTM WINS
$425,000
Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle Collision
RTM WINS
$425,000
Trip and Fall
Incident at Apartment
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We Help Accident Victims File
a Personal Injury Claim in California
Our personal injury attorneys serve the following locations and more in California:
- Anaheim, CA
- Bakersfield, CA
- Buena Park, CA
- Chula Vista, CA
- Compton, CA
- Costa Mesa, CA
- Dana Point, CA
- Fountain Valley, CA
- Glendale, CA
- Huntington Beach, CA
- Inglewood, CA
- Irvine, CA
- Laguna Beach, CA
- Laguna Hills, CA
- Laguna Niguel, CA
- Long Beach, CA
- Los Angeles, CA
- Mission Viejo, CA
- Newport Beach, CA
- Orange County, CA
- Pasadena, CA
- Riverside, CA
- San Bernardino, CA
- San Clemente, CA
- San Diego, CA
- San Juan Capistrano, CA
- Santa Ana, CA
- Seal Beach, CA
- Torrance, CA
- Tustin, CA
- Visalia, CA
- Vista, CA
- Westminster, CA
Our Locations
RTM Law, APC | Personal Injury Attorney
Santa Ana, CA 92706
(949) 287-4342
RTM Law, APC Personal Injury Attorney
2nd Floor, Bakersfield, CA 93309
(661) 402-3200
RTM Law, APC Personal Injury Attorney
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(323) 990-8853
RTM Law, APC Personal Injury Attorney
Victorville, CA 92395
(760) 278-7810
RTM Law, APC Personal Injury Attorney
San Diego, CA 92108
(858) 330-3314
