What should you know about motorcycle accidents in California?
Riders share congested freeways like I-405 and US-101 with heavy traffic, and lane-splitting collisions often involve drivers changing lanes without checking mirrors. Canyon roads like Angeles Crest Highway and Pacific Coast Highway draw riders to curves, blind corners and sudden traffic. California requires all riders to wear a helmet.
California tip: Helmet-cam footage can be powerful evidence in a lane-splitting dispute — save the original file.
Who may be responsible for a motorcycle accident in California?
The driver who caused the crash is usually responsible, but road agencies and manufacturers can also be liable. In California, that can include another driver, a government agency, a manufacturer — depending on who caused the crash.
Under California's pure comparative fault rule, a share of blame for the motorcycle accident lowers what you can recover but never bars the claim outright. Read California car accident laws for the full rule.
How long do you have to file a motorcycle accident claim in California?
Generally two years for a lawsuit, counted from the date of the motorcycle accident. Claims involving California cities, counties or transit agencies can require written notice much sooner.