Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles has year-round riding weather, legendary canyon roads, and a culture that embraces motorcycles. It’s also one of the deadliest places in America for riders. Distracted drivers, aggressive traffic, and an insurance industry that assumes every motorcyclist had it coming.

When a car turns left in front of you, when a driver merges into your lane without looking, when someone opens a door into traffic—you’re the one who pays. Broken bones. Road rash. Traumatic brain injuries. Months of recovery, if you’re lucky.

Then the insurance company shows up. They question why you were lane splitting. They suggest you were speeding. They look for any excuse to minimize your claim. A motorcycle accident lawyer knows these tactics and how to fight back.

Cohen Injury Law Group represents injured riders throughout Los Angeles County. As a Los Angeles personal injury law firm with decades of experience, we understand motorcycle cases. Wayne R. Cohen has tried cases for more than three decades. He doesn’t buy the bias against motorcyclists—he fights it.

We work on contingency. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation. If you need a Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer, call us for a free consultation.

The Bias Problem: Why Motorcycle Accident Claims Are Harder

Insurance adjusters assume motorcyclists are reckless. Juries often feel the same way. This bias affects every aspect of your claim.

Studies confirm it. Research published in the Journal of Safety Research has shown that people attribute more blame to motorcyclists in identical accident scenarios compared to car drivers. The same facts, different vehicle—different assumptions about fault.

Insurance companies exploit this bias:

They question your speed even without evidence you were speeding
They suggest lane splitting caused the accident regardless of circumstances
They imply you “knew the risks” by choosing to ride
They lowball offers assuming you’ll accept rather than fight

A Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney understands this dynamic. We build cases that overcome bias with facts—accident reconstruction, witness statements, physical evidence. We don’t let adjusters dismiss your claim because of what you ride.

Lane Splitting In Los Angeles: What The Law Actually Says

California is the only state where lane splitting is expressly legal. Under Assembly Bill 51, the California Highway Patrol is authorized to develop guidelines for safe lane splitting.

The CHP’s lane splitting guidelines recommend:

Travel no more than 10 mph faster than surrounding traffic
Don’t lane split when traffic is moving faster than 30 mph
Consider lane position, road conditions, and visibility
Avoid splitting near large vehicles or in unfamiliar areas

The key point for your accident claim: lane splitting that follows these guidelines is legal and does not establish fault. Insurance companies will argue otherwise. The law is on your side.

That said, lane splitting does create risks. Drivers don’t expect motorcycles between lanes. Some actively try to block riders. Accidents happen when:

Drivers change lanes without signaling or checking mirrors
Doors open unexpectedly
Drivers intentionally close gaps
Road debris appears between lanes

Even if you were lane splitting when hit, the driver who failed to check before changing lanes is typically at fault. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles understands how to frame lane splitting accidents correctly.

What Types Of Motorcycle Accidents Happen In Los Angeles?

LA’s roads create specific hazards for riders. Each accident type involves different liability issues:

Left-turn accidents. The most common fatal motorcycle crash. A car turns left across your path—they misjudged your speed or simply didn’t see you. You have the right of way. They’re liable. But their insurance will claim you were going too fast.
Lane-change collisions. A driver merges into your lane without looking. On LA freeways, this happens constantly. Drivers check mirrors—but motorcycles are smaller and harder to see. Not seeing you isn’t a defense.
Rear-end accidents. You stop for traffic. The car behind you doesn’t. Without a protective cage, rear-end collisions cause severe injuries to riders. Distracted driving is usually the cause.
Dooring accidents. Someone opens a car door into your path. Common on surface streets with parallel parking—Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice. Under Vehicle Code Section 22517, opening a door into traffic is illegal.
Road hazard crashes. Potholes, gravel, oil slicks, debris. Hazards that cars drive over can throw motorcycles. Government entities responsible for road maintenance may be liable.
Intersection accidents. Running red lights, rolling stop signs, failure to yield. Intersections are killing zones for motorcyclists. Drivers focus on cars—not bikes.
DUI accidents. Drunk drivers kill motorcyclists at alarming rates. Impaired drivers have delayed reactions and poor judgment. They don’t see bikes until impact. DUI involvement strengthens your claim and supports punitive damages.
Freeway on-ramp and off-ramp accidents. Merging conflicts, speed differentials, drivers crossing multiple lanes. LA’s complex interchanges create constant hazards for riders.
Canyon road accidents. Mulholland, Angeles Crest, the canyons above Malibu—legendary riding but dangerous. Blind curves, gravel, oncoming drivers crossing the centerline. When drivers cause these crashes, they’re liable despite the challenging terrain.
Hit-and-run accidents. LA has an epidemic of hit-and-runs. Riders are particularly vulnerable—easier to leave the scene when the victim can’t chase you. Your uninsured motorist coverage becomes critical.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcyclists lack the protection car occupants take for granted. No steel frame. No airbags. No seatbelt keeping you in place. The injuries reflect this vulnerability:

Traumatic brain injuries. Even helmeted riders suffer TBIs. The brain impacts the skull despite the helmet. Concussions to severe TBIs with permanent cognitive impairment. California’s helmet law under Vehicle Code Section 27803 requires helmets—but helmets reduce, not eliminate, brain injury risk.
Spinal cord injuries. The impact forces in motorcycle crashes damage spines. Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, spinal cord damage. Many riders face paralysis. Some never walk again.
Road rash. Sliding across pavement at speed tears skin. Minor road rash is painful. Severe road rash goes to bone, requires skin grafts, leaves permanent scarring. Protective gear helps—but doesn’t prevent all road rash.
Broken bones. Legs, arms, pelvis, ribs, collarbones. Motorcyclists break multiple bones in a single crash. Lower extremity fractures are especially common—your legs are the first thing to hit when you go down.
Internal injuries. Handlebar impacts, blunt trauma from vehicles, impact with the ground. Internal bleeding, organ damage, collapsed lungs. These injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Crush injuries. When a bike goes down with the rider underneath, or when a car pins a rider. Amputations occur in severe crashes.
Facial injuries. Full-face helmets help, but facial injuries still happen. Broken jaws, lost teeth, facial fractures.
Biker’s arm. A specific nerve injury pattern from bracing during a fall. Numbness, weakness, sometimes permanent nerve damage in the arm.
Psychological trauma. PTSD, anxiety, fear of riding again. Motorcycle accidents are terrifying. The psychological injuries are compensable.

How California Motorcycle Laws Affect Your Claim

Understanding the legal framework helps protect your rights:

Helmet Law. Vehicle Code Section 27803 requires DOT-approved helmets. Not wearing a helmet may reduce compensation for head injuries—but it doesn’t eliminate the other driver’s liability for causing the crash.

Insurance Requirements. Under Vehicle Code Section 16028, motorcyclists must carry minimum insurance: $15,000/$30,000/$5,000. These minimums are dangerously low. Many riders wisely carry more—especially uninsured motorist coverage.

Comparative Fault. California’s pure comparative negligence system under Civil Code Section 1714 allows recovery even if you share some fault. If you were 20% at fault, you recover 80% of damages. Even significant fault doesn’t bar your claim.

Statute of Limitations. You have two years to file a lawsuit under California Code of Civil Procedure Section 335.1. Claims against government entities (road defects, dangerous conditions) require administrative claims within six months under the California Government Claims Act.

Lane Splitting. Legal in California. Following CHP guidelines doesn’t establish fault. Insurance companies will try to use lane splitting against you anyway—your motorcycle accident lawyer knows how to respond.

What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident In Los Angeles

The steps you take immediately after a crash affect your recovery:

At The Scene

Get to safety if possible. LA traffic doesn’t stop for crashes. Get yourself off the road if you can move safely.
Call 911. Get police and paramedics there. Don’t decline medical transport if you’re hurt—adrenaline masks pain.
Don’t remove your helmet if you have a potential neck injury. Let paramedics assess you first.
Get driver information. Name, phone, address, license number, insurance company and policy number, license plate.
Document everything. Photograph all vehicles, the scene, road conditions, your injuries, your damaged gear. Video the entire area if possible.
Identify witnesses. Names and phone numbers. In LA, witnesses leave quickly.
Note road conditions. Potholes, gravel, oil—anything that might have contributed. Photograph it.

After The Scene

Get thorough medical evaluation. Even if the ER releases you, follow up with your doctor. Some injuries take time to manifest.
Preserve your gear. Don’t repair or dispose of your helmet, jacket, gloves, boots. They’re evidence of impact severity.
Photograph your injuries. Daily as they develop. Bruising often worsens over 24-48 hours.
Don’t give recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance. They’re looking for ways to blame you. Talk to a motorcycle accident lawyer first.
Report to your own insurance. Basic facts only.
Stay off social media. Photos of you out and about become “evidence” that your injuries aren’t serious.
Contact a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney. Free consultations are standard. Get advice on protecting your claim.

What Compensation Can You Recover After A Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident?

Motorcycle accident victims can recover substantial damages:

Medical expenses. Emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, doctors, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment. Motorcycle injuries often require extensive treatment. Future medical costs count too.

Lost income. Wages lost during recovery. Future lost earning capacity if injuries affect your ability to work long-term.

Pain and suffering. Physical pain and emotional distress. California has no cap on pain and suffering in motorcycle accident cases. The California Civil Jury Instructions guide how juries calculate these damages.

Property damage. Your motorcycle at fair market or replacement value. Helmets, jackets, boots, gloves—quality gear is expensive.

Disability. Permanent impairments affecting mobility, daily activities, or your ability to ride.

Disfigurement. Scarring from road rash or surgery. Visible injuries that change your appearance.

Loss of enjoyment. If you can’t ride anymore—or can’t do other activities you loved.

Wrongful death. If a rider dies, family members can recover funeral costs, lost income, and loss of companionship.

Punitive damages. In cases involving drunk drivers, road rage, or intentional conduct, punitive damages punish the wrongdoer.

Which Roads In Los Angeles Are Most Dangerous For Motorcyclists?

LA’s geography and traffic patterns create specific hazards:

Mulholland Drive. Iconic canyon road connecting the Valley to the Westside. Blind curves, gravel on shoulders, cars crossing centerlines. Popular with riders—but dozens of motorcycle fatalities over the years.

Pacific Coast Highway. Beautiful but deadly. High speeds, distracted drivers watching the ocean, curves that tighten unexpectedly. The stretch through Malibu is particularly dangerous.

Angeles Crest Highway (Highway 2). Mountain road into the Angeles National Forest. Twisty, technical, and unforgiving. Gravel, blind corners, elevation changes. Riders love it—and die on it.

The 405 Freeway. America’s busiest freeway is brutal for riders. Sudden traffic stops, aggressive lane changes, distracted drivers. The Sepulveda Pass sees constant motorcycle crashes.

The 101 Freeway. Through Hollywood and the Valley. Curves, lane reductions, heavy traffic. Motorcyclists are vulnerable in the congestion.

Sunset Boulevard. Through Hollywood and into the Palisades. Heavy traffic, pedestrians, parallel parking (dooring risk), aggressive driving.

Laurel Canyon Boulevard. Connecting Hollywood to the Valley. Curves, narrow lanes, drivers who don’t expect bikes.

Lincoln Boulevard. Through the Westside. Heavy traffic, lots of intersections, left-turn accidents waiting to happen.

Topanga Canyon Boulevard. From PCH to the Valley. Popular motorcycle route with real hazards—curves, gravel, oncoming traffic.

Downtown LA streets. Traffic congestion, distracted drivers, potholes, unpredictable pedestrians. Urban riding requires constant vigilance.

Data from TIMS (Transportation Injury Mapping System) shows motorcycle crash concentrations along these corridors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Claims

Does Lane Splitting Hurt My Case?

Not if you were splitting safely. Lane splitting is legal in California. Following CHP guidelines (no more than 10 mph faster than traffic, not splitting above 30 mph) is lawful riding. Insurance companies will try to blame lane splitting anyway—your motorcycle accident lawyer counters this with the actual law.

What If I Wasn’t Wearing A Helmet?

You can still recover. California requires helmets, but not wearing one doesn’t excuse the other driver’s negligence. Your compensation for head injuries specifically might be reduced, but your overall claim remains valid.

How Much Is My Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?

Depends on your injuries, medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Minor injuries might settle for $20,000-$50,000. Serious injuries—TBI, spinal damage, multiple fractures, road rash requiring grafts—can be worth hundreds of thousands or millions. An experienced auto accident lawyer in Los Angeles can assess your specific case.

What If The Driver Says They Didn’t See Me?

That’s negligence, not an excuse. Drivers must watch for motorcycles. “I didn’t see you” means they weren’t paying attention. We use this admission against them.

Can I Recover If I Was Speeding?

Possibly. California’s comparative fault system reduces recovery based on your percentage of fault—but doesn’t eliminate it. If speeding contributed to the crash, your recovery is reduced proportionally. If you were speeding but the driver still ran a red light, they bear significant fault regardless.

What If The Road Caused My Accident?

Government entities may be liable for dangerous conditions—potholes, gravel, missing signage. You must file a claim within six months under the Government Claims Act. These cases are viable but have strict deadlines. The California Courts Self-Help Guide explains the process.

What If The Driver Fled The Scene?

Hit-and-runs are common in LA. Your uninsured motorist coverage can apply. Investigation—surveillance cameras, witnesses, debris analysis—may identify the driver. A motorcycle accident attorney pursues all options.

Do I Need A Lawyer For A Motorcycle Accident?

Technically no. But motorcycle claims face bias that other claims don’t. Insurance companies assume riders are at fault. Unrepresented riders get lowballed. A motorcycle accident lawyer levels the playing field and typically recovers more—even after fees.

What If My Passenger Was Injured?

Passengers can file their own claims against the at-fault driver. They may also have claims against you if your negligence contributed. Your liability insurance covers passenger injuries you cause.

How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit?

Two years from the accident. Claims against government entities require administrative claims within six months. Don’t wait—evidence disappears and witnesses forget.

What If The Accident Aggravated A Pre-existing Injury?

You recover for the aggravation. The “eggshell plaintiff” rule means defendants take victims as they find them. If you had a bad back and the crash made it worse, the at-fault driver pays for the worsening.

Should I Accept The Insurance Company’s First Offer?

Almost never. First offers are calculated to close files cheaply. Insurance companies expect injured people to take quick money rather than fight for fair compensation. Once you accept, you can’t get more—even if injuries worsen. Your motorcycle accident attorney evaluates whether offers are fair.

What If The Other Driver Was Uninsured?

Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies. This is why carrying UM is essential in LA. You can also sue the driver personally, but collecting from someone without insurance often means collecting from someone without assets.

Can I Sue If My Own Mechanical Failure Caused The Crash?

Potentially. If a defective motorcycle part caused the failure, you may have a product liability claim against the manufacturer. If a mechanic negligently serviced the bike, they may be liable. Investigation determines whether third-party negligence contributed.

How Long Will My Case Take?

Simple cases with clear liability might settle in months. Serious injuries take longer—you shouldn’t settle before understanding your long-term prognosis. Litigation extends timelines to 1-2 years. We don’t rush settlements that undervalue claims.

Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Statistics

The numbers show what riders face:

From NHTSA:

Motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car occupants per mile traveled
5,932 motorcyclists died nationally in 2021
82,686 motorcyclists were injured
Helmet use saved an estimated 1,872 lives in 2017
Helmets are 37% effective in preventing rider deaths

From the California Office of Traffic Safety:

California has more motorcycle fatalities than any other state
Los Angeles County leads California in motorcycle deaths
Speed and alcohol remain primary factors in fatal crashes
Single-vehicle crashes (rider loses control) account for a significant share

From TIMS:

LA County sees hundreds of motorcycle fatalities annually
Crash clusters appear on canyon roads, freeways, and major arterials
Most fatal crashes occur in clear weather during daylight hours

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety provides additional research on motorcycle crash factors and prevention.

Why Hire Cohen Injury Law Group For Your Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Case?

We reject the bias. Insurance companies treat motorcyclists as second-class claimants. We hold them to the same standard of fairness owed to any accident victim.

We understand motorcycles. Lane splitting, road hazards, protective gear, rider vulnerability. We know what matters in motorcycle cases and how to present it.

We build strong cases. Accident reconstruction, witness interviews, expert testimony on biomechanics and road conditions. We prepare cases that overcome anti-rider bias.

Trial experience. Insurance companies know which motorcycle accident attorneys actually litigate. Wayne R. Cohen has tried cases for over three decades. That reputation influences how they negotiate.

No fee unless we win. Contingency only. We advance all costs.

What our clients say:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Mr. Cohen was not only incredibly knowledgeable, but very personable. I was surprised at how he really listened and considered every aspect of my situation with understanding as if it were his own. He never made me feel like my questions were wasting his time, and I found this refreshing compared to other lawyers I reached out to. I never felt rushed. I highly recommend reaching out if you need your case handled with experience and understanding.”

Schedule A Free Consultation With A Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident anywhere in Los Angeles County, we’ll evaluate your case for free. You pay nothing unless we recover compensation.

We represent injured riders throughout Los Angeles—from the canyons to the freeways, from the Westside to the Valley.

The insurance company is already building a case against you. They’re looking for ways to blame the rider. Get someone on your side who knows how to fight back.

Contact our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers today for a free consultation.