California Personal Injury Attorneys
Riders deserve a fair shake. We fight bias against motorcyclists and pursue full compensation for injured California riders.
California is one of the most popular states in the country for motorcycling, and it is currently the only state that expressly permits lane splitting under Vehicle Code section 21658.1, which authorizes the California Highway Patrol to issue guidance for riding between lanes. Unfortunately, riders are also vulnerable to serious injury when drivers fail to share the road.
Motorcyclists sometimes face unfair assumptions that they were reckless or “asking for it.” Insurance adjusters may use that bias to minimize a claim. A thorough investigation — including witness statements, traffic-camera footage, and accident reconstruction — can establish what actually happened and counter unfounded assumptions. Lane splitting is legal in California, and doing it does not automatically make a rider at fault.
California’s pure comparative negligence rule (from Li v. Yellow Cab Co.) means a rider may recover even if found partially at fault, with the award reduced accordingly. The standard two-year deadline under Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1 generally applies. Helmet use is required under Vehicle Code section 27803; questions about how that affects a claim should be discussed with an attorney.
Because riders have less protection, motorcycle collisions often cause fractures, road rash, spinal injuries, and traumatic brain injuries. Recoverable losses may include medical expenses, future care, lost earnings, and pain and suffering under Civil Code section 3333. Our firm represents injured riders across California, from the canyons near Los Angeles to the roads around Sacramento and San Jose.
Golden State Injury Lawyers provides a free consultation with no fee unless we recover for you. This information is general and not legal advice; every case is evaluated on its own facts.
Common Causes
After an Injury
Your health comes first. See a doctor promptly even if you feel fine — some injuries are not obvious right away, and prompt records also help document your claim.
Notify the appropriate party — call law enforcement, or tell the property owner, manager, or employer — and make sure a written report is created.
If you can, photograph the scene, your injuries, and anything that contributed to the motorcycle accident. Collect names and contact details for any witnesses.
Save medical bills, proof of lost wages, and out-of-pocket expenses. Keep a simple journal of how your injuries affect your daily life.
Before giving a recorded statement or accepting any offer from an insurance company, speak with an attorney. The consultation is free.
Know Your Rights
In California, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of injury under Code of Civil Procedure section 335.1. If a government entity is involved, you may have as little as six months to file a claim under the California Government Claims Act. Because deadlines vary, it is best to speak with an attorney promptly.
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, established in Li v. Yellow Cab Co. (1975). You may still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault — your recovery is simply reduced by your percentage of responsibility.
Under California Civil Code section 1714, everyone is generally responsible for harm caused by their failure to use reasonable care. Establishing that another party breached this duty is a key part of most injury claims.
California Civil Code section 3333 sets the measure of damages for most non-contract claims — the amount that will compensate for all the detriment caused, whether or not it could have been anticipated. This can include economic and non-economic losses. Compensation amounts vary based on the specific facts of your case.
Compensation
Compensation amounts vary based on the specific facts of your case.
Case Results
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Each case is unique.
Settlement for a rider injured by a distracted driver in Los Angeles.
Our Team
Experienced California personal injury attorneys dedicated to your recovery.
Founder & Attorney at Law
Shannon Ramos is a California-licensed attorney practicing family law since 2013. Loyal, detail-driven, and known in the courtroom as “El Toro,” she brings relentless preparation and trial skill to every case.
View ProfileSenior Trial Partner
Elena leads the firm’s trial practice, focusing on catastrophic injury and wrongful death cases throughout California.
View ProfileSenior Trial Attorney
Daniel represents clients in serious motor vehicle and trucking cases, with an emphasis on thorough case preparation.
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California law may limit the time you have to file a claim. Act now — there is no cost and no obligation to speak with our team.
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