Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Author: Josh Kohanim
Founding Attorney
Wise Law Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers
Published date: June 3, 2025
Home / Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer at Wise Law Firm fights for motorcyclists throughout Beverly Hills and beyond. Motorcycle accidents often cause catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical care. Our personal injury attorney aims for maximum compensation so you can rebuild your life. We combine skill, determination, and compassion to hold every negligent driver accountable for the harm they cause.

Our Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Stands Up for Injured Motorcyclists

Many motorcycle riders suffer severe injuries when they collide with larger vehicles on busy city streets. Our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer investigates the crash scene, reviews police reports, and gathers critical evidence for your case. We know that a traumatic brain injury or a spinal cord injury can cost you more than just medical bills. Our motorcycle accident attorneys focus on every detail of your personal injury claim so you can concentrate on healing.

An experienced attorney from our firm can help document everything from property damage to your head injury so you have the strongest case possible. Even minor injuries can escalate if you do not receive the right medical attention immediately. We hold the at-fault party accountable for violating their duty of care toward you on the road. Unlike some law firms, we keep you updated throughout each step and stand by your side from start to finish.

Why Motorcycle Accidents Are So Dangerous

Why Motorcycle Accidents Are So Dangerous

Motorcycle collisions leave riders exposed to the impact because they lack the protective barriers found in auto accidents. A single crash can lead to multiple motorcycle injuries, including skull fractures or internal injuries that require emergency care. These personal injuries may take weeks or months to heal, and some never fully resolve.

While helmets can lessen the risk of a head injury, many motorcycle helmet guidelines do not protect the face or neck. Serious collisions can cause brain injuries that lead to permanent injury and reduce your enjoyment of life. California often sees high traffic fatalities, and Motorcycle fatalities are a troubling part of that statistic.

Reckless driving, hazardous roads, or faulty traffic signals maintained by a government agency can all lead to fatal motorcycle accidents. When riders crash at higher speeds, catastrophic injuries become much more likely. Victims might face a lifetime of medical care and financial stress after such a tragedy.

Top Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Los Angeles

Many collisions happen because other drivers fail to see motorcycles in time or drive carelessly on city roads. Some leading factors that frequently contribute to a motorcycle collision include:

Left-Turn Collisions

Drivers making left turns often fail to yield to an oncoming motorcycle, causing a sudden crash. These collisions frequently lead to broken bones or even a traumatic brain injury if the impact is severe. The negligent driver could face punitive damages in rare cases where their actions were outrageously reckless. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can investigate your claim to determine whether you qualify for additional damages.

Blind Spots

Cars and trucks have areas around them where the driver cannot see a smaller vehicle. Motorcycle accidents often happen when a motorist abruptly changes lanes without checking for a biker in their blind spot. These situations might result in property damage and life-altering harm for the rider. A motorcycle injury lawyer can help you prove the fault party failed to exercise caution.

Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving often involves texting, calling, or eating behind the wheel. A momentary lack of focus can lead to a devastating crash. When a driver ignores the road, they violate the duty of care owed to everyone around them. Insurance company representatives may try to downplay the driver's fault, but evidence of distracted driving can strengthen your case.

Drunk Drivers

Alcohol impairs judgment and slows reaction times, making drunk drivers a major threat on roads from Beverly Hills to downtown Los Angeles. These collisions can lead to severe injuries that require extensive medical records to document. A personal injury lawyer can hold a drunk motorist accountable for the devastation they cause. Criminal charges may punish the driver, but you still need a civil claim to secure fair compensation.

Poor Visibility

Fog, heavy rain, or nighttime conditions reduce the ability of drivers to spot motorcycles. Riders who wear reflective gear may lower their risk of a collision, but accidents can still occur. Poor visibility often leads to multiple vehicle crashes with extensive property damage. Survivors of these wrecks may suffer catastrophic injuries that forever change their quality of life.

Common Injuries from Motorcycle Collisions

Common Injuries from Motorcycle Collisions
  • Road Rash. Abrasions occur when a rider skids across the pavement. Deep scrapes can lead to infections and require skin grafts.
  • Head Injury. A strong impact can result in a skull fracture or other internal injuries. This type of trauma often requires immediate medical care.
  • Broken Bones. Collisions throw riders off their bikes, causing fractures in arms, legs, or ribs. These extremity injuries often require surgery and months of rehabilitation.
  • Spinal Cord Injury. Sudden force can damage the spine and lead to partial or total paralysis. Victims may need lifelong support to handle daily tasks.
  • Traumatic Brain Injury. Powerful blows to the head can create lasting cognitive or physical impairments. Many riders never fully regain their previous abilities.
  • Internal Injuries. Organs like the liver or lungs can tear or bruise upon impact. Symptoms may not appear immediately, so prompt medical tests are essential.
  • Permanent Injury. Some wounds never heal enough for a full recovery. This situation often leads to a loss of enjoyment and Loss of Consortium for many families.

What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident

  1. Check Your Condition. Make sure you and anyone else involved are not in immediate danger. Assess for Minor injuries or severe harm.
  2. Call 911. Alerting authorities helps secure emergency services quickly. Official police reports can also document important details.
  3. Gather Evidence. Take photos of vehicle damage, debris, and any road hazards. Such proof strengthens your motorcycle accident claim.
  4. Exchange Information. Get contact and insurance details from the at-fault driver. This data matters when you file insurance claims later.
  5. Seek Medical Attention. A thorough exam uncovers hidden damage like internal injuries. Keep records of all medical expenses.
  6. Avoid Quick Settlements. An insurance company might push you to agree early. Consult an experienced attorney before signing anything.
  7. Contact a Lawyer. A personal injury attorney can protect your rights and fight for compensation. They often work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing upfront.

California Helmet Laws and Liability Considerations

California Helmet Laws and Liability Considerations

California Vehicle Code Section 27803 requires most motorcycle riders to wear an approved motorcycle helmet. Discover more about how helmet use and comparative negligence laws might affect your injury case.

What Happens If You Weren’t Wearing a Helmet?

Failure to follow helmet rules does not always prevent you from recovering damages. The insurance company may argue you share the blame for your own injuries, but that is not always true. A skilled motorcycle attorney can demonstrate that the other driver still caused the collision. You might still obtain fair compensation, though your award could be reduced if you share some fault.

Understanding Comparative Negligence in Motorcycle Cases

California follows comparative negligence, which means both sides can share liability. If the court assigns you a certain percentage of fault, your final award shrinks by that percentage. Proving the other driver held the majority of blame often becomes the key to recovering damages. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer helps you build a strong case under comparative negligence rules.

Insurance Issues in Motorcycle Accidents

Insurance issues arise when providers try to deny or devalue motorcycle claims, especially if the at-fault driver lacks adequate coverage. Filing insurance claims requires clear evidence of what happened, such as police reports and medical records. Some policies may offer underinsured motorist coverage that helps you secure financial compensation if the other driver cannot pay.

These disputes often need a personal injury lawyer who can negotiate aggressively or file a personal injury lawsuit if necessary. Many law firms do not have the resources to fight big insurance companies, but our team does. By presenting strong medical records and expert testimony, we strive to recover the fullest possible settlement for our clients.

Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit for a Motorcycle Crash

Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit for a Motorcycle Crash
  • Initial Consultation. A personal injury lawyer will evaluate your case and advise if you should proceed. This step often includes reviewing your medical records and accident details.
  • Complaint Filing. You officially start the lawsuit by filing legal paperwork in court. This action informs the liable party of your intent to seek compensation.
  • Discovery Process. Both sides exchange evidence and information, like medical documents and witness statements. Negotiations may happen during this phase, especially in cases of severe injuries.
  • Settlement Talks. Many motorcycle accidents end with an agreement before trial. However, you may need to go to court if the other side refuses a fair deal.
  • Trial or Alternative Dispute Resolution. If negotiations fail, a judge or jury will decide the outcome. In wrongful death matters, the process is similar but can involve even more complex legal issues.

FAQs

How much is my motorcycle accident case worth?

The value depends on factors like the severity of your injuries, lost wages, and property damage. An experienced attorney can help you estimate both economic and non-economic damages.

Can I sue if I wasn’t wearing protective gear?

You might still have a claim, though not wearing gear may lower your payout under comparative negligence laws. A court could find you partially responsible, but a personal injury lawyer can still pursue compensation for your losses.

Do motorcycle cases go to trial often?

Most disputes are settled out of court, but some do proceed to trial if settlement talks fail. A lawyer can advise you on whether trial or negotiation is your best path.

What if I was partially at fault?

California follows comparative negligence, so you can still collect damages if you share some blame. Your award is reduced by your percentage of fault, so it's vital to minimize the blame assigned to you.

What types of compensation can I recover?

You may seek both economic and non-economic damages, such as medical bills, lost income, and loss of enjoyment. Punitive damages are sometimes awarded if the fault driver acted with extreme recklessness.

Talk to a Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Wise Law Firm for a Free Case Review

Talk to a Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Wise Law Firm for a Free Case Review

Wise Law Firm offers free consultations to motorcycle riders across the region. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers handle every aspect of your claim from start to finish. We aim to relieve your stress by managing the legal details while you focus on recovery. Call us today to speak with a Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer and learn about your options at no cost.

Published by
josh kohanim
About The Author
Josh Kohanim, Esq., is the founder and managing attorney of Wise Law. He has dedicated his career to advocating for individuals who have suffered catastrophic personal injuries. With over a decade of extensive experience in personal injury law, including six years at a prestigious California injury law firm, Josh was mentored by some of the state’s leading trial lawyers. He has successfully represented clients in a wide array of cases, ranging from catastrophic motor vehicle accidents to intricate injuries resulting from toxic chemical exposure.

Wise Law Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers. (2025, May 15). What to Do After a Car Accident in Los Angeles: A Quick Legal Guide. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.wiseinjuryfirm.com/what-to-do-after-a-car-accident-los-angeles.

This guide provides essential steps for car accident victims in Los Angeles, including immediate actions to take, how to document the scene, and when to seek legal help.Los Angeles Police Department. (2024, December 10). LAPD Traffic Collision Reports and Safety Statistics. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.lapdonline.org/traffic/accident-statistics.

This official LAPD resource offers detailed statistics on traffic collisions in Los Angeles and outlines citywide safety initiatives and reporting procedures.California Office of Traffic Safety. (2024, October 18). City of Los Angeles Traffic Safety Rankings and Reports. Retrieved May 15, 2025, from https://www.ots.ca.gov/rankings/los-angeles-2024
This page outlines how Los Angeles ranks among other California cities in terms of crashes, injuries, DUI incidents, and pedestrian safety.
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This DMV resource explains when and how to report a car accident in California, including legal requirements for filing SR-1 forms and working with insurance providers.
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The NHTSA offers urban driving safety tips and accident prevention strategies tailored to high-traffic cities like Los Angeles.

This page was written, edited, and reviewed & approved by Josh Kohanim. Josh has secured some of the largest verdicts in Los Angeles, including $6.3 million, $1.25 million, and $1 million. His approach is client-centered, focusing on providing personalized legal strategies that meet the unique needs of each client. Our last modified date shows when this page was last reviewed.
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