For many riders, motorcycles are more than just a means of transportation, but also a source of joy and freedom. However, given the dense traffic and almost constant congestion in Los Angeles there is a significant risk of accidents, injuries, and even fatalities for motorcyclists. Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) data shows that between 2020 and 2024, the vast majority of fatal motorcycle accidents in California happened in Los Angeles County where an average of 740 fatal motorcycle accidents happened each year. When the worst happens, be sure to have a trusted Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer on your side to help protect your rights or the rights of your family. Contact the team at BD&J today to discuss your motorcycle accident case and find out how much compensation you could receive.
The Legal Process for Motorcycle Accident Claims
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident and need an injury lawyer to support your claim, you will start this process with a free initial consultation. Most motorcycle accident attorneys in Los Angeles offer free consultations, so you can discuss your accident with a legal expert before deciding to proceed. Once you decide to hire a personal injury lawyer, they will begin a thorough investigation into the accident to identify liable parties. The investigation process involves gathering evidence that proves who was liable for the accident. Proving the negligence that caused the accident is a key part of the claim process.
With substantial evidence in hand, your attorney will write a demand letter to send to the party responsible. Negotiation begins once the insurance company or responsible entity receives the demand letter. Your lawyer will communicate directly with the insurance company or legal representative of the party at fault on your behalf. Sometimes insurance companies will deny your claim or refuse fair compensation. In these instances, your attorney will file an official lawsuit and litigate your case in front of a judge or jury. At BD&J, our priority is to ensure you get the compensation you need to support your recovery, and we will use every available resource to achieve this.
Common Causes of Los Angeles Motorcycle Accidents
While many motorcycle accidents can be attributed to visibility issues, there are often other compounding factors. The Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorneys at BD&J have worked on cases caused by:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Failure to yield
- Left-turn collisions
- Unsafe lane changes
- Rear-end collisions
- Lane splitting
- Road hazards
- Impaired driving
Typical Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Los Angeles
Given the inherent lack of protection involved in riding a motorcycle versus another kind of vehicle, it is not surprising that most motorcycle accidents result in serious injuries or even death. Fortunately, California Vehicle Code (CVC) 27803 requires all motorcyclists regardless of age to wear a DOT compliant helmet when riding a motorcycle. However, this is only minor protection if you consider the size and weight of trucks on the road and the potential for injury to other parts of the body. Cases seen by the BD&J motorcycle accident lawyers in Los Angeles involved:
- Road rash
- Bone fracture
- Amputation
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Internal organ damage
- Laceration
Most Dangerous Roads for Motorcycles in Los Angeles
Motorcycle accidents can happen almost anywhere, especially with the traffic congestion Los Angeles experiences every day. Nevertheless, it has been found that most Los Angeles motorcycle accidents occur in busy urban areas, particularly at intersections. Motorcycle accidents are also extremely common on highways, especially in merging areas. Specifically, the intersections of Roscoe & Reseda, Florence & Western, and Vermont & 8th are known for their high rates of motorcycle accidents. The highways that see the most motorcycle accidents in Los Angeles include the 405, the 10, the 101, and the 5 with most accidents occurring at the interchanges of these highways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Los Angeles?
Yes, lane splitting or riding between lanes of traffic, is legal in Los Angeles. Lane splitting can help to decrease congestion and maximize use of roadways. However, there are conditions that can make lane spitting unsafe, so motorcyclists are encouraged to use caution and good judgement when lane splitting. If you’re riding a motorcycle and have an opportunity to split the lane, only do so if it’s safe. Unsafe lane splitting could still be held against you, even if it is legal.
What Is the Statute of Limitations in California?
Victims of motorcycle accidents have two years from the time of their accident to file a legal claim. This is the standard statute of limitations for personal injury claims in the state of California. The exception to this time frame arises when the accident involves a government entity or municipality. (i.e. if the motorcycle accident was caused by poor road maintenance) In these instances, victims have six months from the time of the accident to file a claim.
Do I Need a Lawyer If I Have Insurance?
Yes, even if you have insurance coverage, a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney can be invaluable when seeking justice and compensation after an accident. Insurance companies are interested in minimizing payouts and even denying claims to protect their bottom line. Accident attorneys are skilled negotiators that will communicate directly with the insurance company on your behalf. An injury lawyer can help you win maximum compensation by using strong negotiation tactics and rejecting low settlement offers.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a Motorcycle Accident?
Both economic and non-economic damages can be requested by victims of motorcycle accidents in California. Economic damages include factors like medical bills, lost wages, and motorcycle repairs. Non-economic damage encompasses pain and suffering and emotional distress. Generally, victims of motorcycle accidents pursue compensation for anywhere from tens of thousands of dollars to millions of dollars. Working with a motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles can ensure you pursue all possible compensation, including future medical needs.
How To Select the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles
When you are recovering from a motorcycle accident, it is important to simplify the legal process as much as possible by partnering with a skilled and knowledgeable attorney. Fortunately, there are numerous Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers who could be the right fit for you. Follow these steps to find the best attorney for your case:
- Evaluate their previous cases and the compensation won. It is best to find a lawyer with ample experience with motorcycle accident cases. In addition, knowing the amount of compensation won in previous cases does not show you how much you may receive in compensation but rather indicates how aggressive the lawyer is about pursuing maximum compensation.
- Review client testimonials. Reading reviews from previous clients can help to paint a picture of what it is like to work with a potential attorney. This can help you pinpoint not only a skilled lawyer but also find someone who is the right fit for you and your case.
- Schedule a free consultation. Most Los Angeles injury attorneys offer free initial consultations so that you can discuss your case with a potential attorney before deciding to work with them. This consultation is a chance to hear from the lawyer’s perspective how your case will go and give you an opportunity to ask questions about their experience and strategies.
Pursuing Justice for Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Victims
With motorcycle riders on our own team, BD&J’s motorcycle accident attorneys understand the fear and confusion you may be experiencing. Our team is prepared to handle your case with compassion and allow you to focus on recovery. Having served victims of motorcycle accidents for over 20 years and won $2 billion* for clients, we are prepared to provide top notch legal representation and pursue maximum compensation. Contact the Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers at BD&J for a free consultation and to discuss your case with a legal expert today.
