Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Can I still file a claim even if I am partially at fault for a Los Angeles motorcycle accident? Under California’s pure comparative negligence rule, you may still recover compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident, although your recovery will generally be reduced by your percentage of fault. A Los Angeles accident lawyer can help investigate the crash, address liability disputes, and pursue compensation supported by the available evidence.

Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable road users because they have far less protection than occupants of enclosed vehicles. As a result, motorcycle accidents on busy Los Angeles roadways such as I-10, the Pacific Coast Highway, and US-101 can lead to catastrophic injuries, mounting medical bills, and extended time away from work.

A motorcycle accident attorney at Jacoby & Meyers can help you manage the aftermath of a motorcycle accident by investigating the crash, dealing with insurance companies, and guiding you through every stage of the claims process.

• Our Firm Has Recovered Over $2 Billion in Clients’ Case Results
• Earned the Trust of Thousands of Clients Across California, as Reflected in Their Reviews and Stories
• 50+ Years of Experience Handling Personal Injury and Car Accident Cases
• Completely Free Initial Consultations
• Gained Recognition for Our Advocacy and Work in Personal Injury
• No Attorney Fees Unless We Recover Compensation — We work on contingency fee basis

Past results depend on the facts and circumstances of each case. They do not guarantee, warrant, or predict the outcome of your legal matter.

Call our 24/7 hotline or complete our online form to consult with our Los Angeles Motorcycle accident attorney about your options.

What Our Clients Have To Say

What immediate actions should you take after a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles?

After a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, your first priorities should be seeking medical and police assistance and gathering as much information as possible, including photos of the scene, and the contact information of the parties involved and any witnesses. This often involves assistance from the Los Angeles Police Department or the California Highway Patrol, and treatment at nearby facilities such as Los Angeles General Medical Center. These steps can help protect your health while preserving evidence that may support a future injury claim.

• Call 911 for emergency assistance.
• Seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately and can worsen over time. 
• Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, road hazards, traffic signals, skid marks, road conditions, and visible injuries. 
• Collect the information of other parties involved, including their names, contact, and insurance details.
• Identify witnesses at the scene and obtain their contact information and name.

Road conditions and traffic patterns can create additional risks for motorcyclists. Areas such as Mulholland Highway and the Pacific Coast Highway are known for sharp curves, changing road conditions, and heavy traffic that can increase the chances of motorcycle accidents.

What can motorcycle riders expect after an accident in Los Angeles?

The reality for many motorcycle riders after an accident in Los Angeles is that recovery and the claims process often happen at the same time. While dealing with injuries, medical appointments, and time away from work, riders may also need to manage insurance claims, preserve evidence, and meet important deadlines. This can be especially challenging after crashes on roads such as Mulholland Highway, where sharp curves and changing elevations can contribute to serious accidents.

Realities riders often face after a motorcycle accident include:

• The SR-1 Form Deadline: An SR-1 form must be submitted to the California Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days of an accident.
• Police Report Processing Times: Reports from the Los Angeles Police Department or the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department may take several days or longer to become available.
• Ongoing Medical Treatment: Motorcycle injuries often require follow-up care, rehabilitation, and additional medical evaluations long after the crash.
• Insurance Company Investigations: While you are focused on recovering, insurance companies may already be investigating the accident and evaluating the claim.

Recovering from a motorcycle accident often means balancing your physical healing with insurance requirements, documentation, and other responsibilities that can affect your claim.

What injuries are common in Los Angeles motorcycle accidents?

Common injuries in Los Angeles motorcycle accidents include abrasions, broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, lacerations, and internal injuries. Even with protective gear, riders can suffer serious harm because motorcycles provide far less protection than enclosed vehicles.

Motorcycles are smaller than cars, SUVs, vans, and trucks, leaving riders at a disadvantage during a collision. As a result, motorcyclists often sustain more severe injuries than occupants of larger vehicles, even in crashes that may appear minor.

Motorcycle accidents can lead to serious injuries, such as:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Head trauma ranging from concussions to permanent cognitive impairment, even when a helmet is worn.
• Spinal cord and back injuries: Injuries that may cause chronic pain, reduced mobility, or paralysis.
• Broken bones and fractures: Damage to the arms, legs, ribs, hips, or pelvis, often requiring surgery and extended rehabilitation.
• Road rash and soft tissue injuries: Severe abrasions, lacerations, and muscle or tendon injuries that may lead to infection or permanent scarring.
• Internal organ injuries: Blunt-force trauma that can damage organs such as the lungs, liver, spleen, or kidneys.
• Neck and shoulder injuries: Including herniated discs, nerve damage, and lasting limitations in range of motion.
• Amputations: Catastrophic injuries resulting from crushing forces or strong impact. 

Motorcycle crashes on Los Angeles roadways, including routes such as Mulholland Highway and the Pacific Coast Highway, can result in life-changing injuries that require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and time away from work.

Who may be liable for a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles?

Under California Civil Code § 1714, liability for a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles may fall on drivers, riders, manufacturers, property owners, government entities, or any other parties involved if their negligent actions or failure to exercise reasonable care contributed to the crash.

Motorcycle accidents on busy Los Angeles roadways, including I-405 and I-10, often involve multiple vehicles and complex circumstances, making it important to thoroughly investigate who may be legally responsible for the crash.

Potentially liable parties may include:

• Other drivers: Motorists who acted negligently by speeding, driving distracted, failing to yield, or making unsafe lane changes.
• Employers: Companies may be held responsible if an employee caused a crash while performing job-related duties, such as a delivery or rideshare driver.
• Vehicle manufacturers: Defective motorcycle parts, vehicle components, or safety equipment may contribute to a collision or worsen injuries.
• Maintenance or repair providers: Improper repairs or negligent maintenance that affect vehicle performance or safety.
• Government entities: City, county, or state agencies responsible for unsafe road design, poor maintenance, missing signage, or hazardous conditions.
• Property owners: In some cases, private property owners may be liable if dangerous conditions on their property contributed to the accident.

The California Office of Traffic Safety reported 583 motorcycle-related deaths in 2023. Many of these crashes involve issues such as alcohol-impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, dangerous road conditions, traffic violations, and “dooring” incidents.

Identifying all responsible parties is an important step in pursuing fair compensation, particularly in cases involving severe injuries or multiple sources of liability.

What damages can be recovered after a motorcycle accident?

California Civil Code §§ 3281–3294 allows Los Angeles motorcycle accident victims to recover economic damages, non-economic damages, and, in limited circumstances, punitive damages through a personal injury claim. Economic damages compensate for measurable financial losses such as medical expenses, property damage, and lost income, while non-economic damages address personal losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and reduced quality of life. In cases involving serious misconduct, punitive damages may also be awarded.

Economic Damages

• Immediate medical expenses: Emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, medication, and rehabilitation.
• Future medical expenses: Ongoing therapy, follow-up procedures, and long-term care needs.
• Lost income: Wages or benefits lost while recovering from injuries.
• Reduced earning capacity: Compensation for diminished ability to work or earn income in the future.
• Property damage: Repair or replacement of your motorcycle and related gear.

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering: Physical pain and discomfort resulting from the accident.
• Emotional distress: Anxiety, depression, or trauma related to the crash.
• Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in activities you once enjoyed.
• Permanent disability or disfigurement: Lasting physical limitations or visible scarring.

Punitive Damages

In rare cases, punitive damages may be available when the at-fault party’s conduct involved extreme recklessness or intentional misconduct under California Civil Code § 3294. These damages are not meant to compensate for losses, but to punish particularly dangerous behavior and deter similar conduct.

The damages available in your case depend on your medical records, the severity of your injuries, and how the accident affects your ability to work and your daily life.

Our Personal Injury Case Results

Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements on behalf of local accident victims in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area. Some of our personal injury case results include:

Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

How long do you have to file a motorcycle accident claim in California?

The statute of limitations under California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1 requires motorcycle accident claims to be filed within two years from the date of the accident. If the crash involves a government entity, such as the City of Los Angeles and Los Angeles County, additional rules may apply, including a requirement to submit an administrative claim within six months in many situations.

Pitfall Alert: What if you were not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident?

Not wearing a helmet does not automatically prevent you from pursuing compensation after a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, but it can affect your claim. Under California Vehicle Code § 27803, all motorcycle riders and passengers are required to wear a helmet that meets approved safety standards. If a rider is not wearing one, insurance companies may argue that it contributed to the severity of the injuries, which can impact the amount of compensation.

Here is how helmet use can affect your claim:

• Liability for the crash: Helmet use does not determine who caused the accident. If another driver was negligent, they may still be legally responsible for the collision itself. 
• Comparative fault arguments: Insurers may use California’s comparative negligence rule and argue that not wearing a helmet contributed to the severity of head or brain injuries. 
• Injury-specific impact: Helmet use is generally relevant only to head or facial injuries. It does not affect claims for other injuries such as broken bones, spinal injuries, internal injuries, or road rash. 

Insurance companies often raise helmet-related arguments in an effort to reduce compensation, even when another party caused the crash. A careful review of the accident, medical evidence, and the nature of the injuries can help determine whether those arguments are supported by the facts.

Why do you need a motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles?

You may need a motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles because these cases often involve disputed liability, insurance negotiations, and legal complexities that can be difficult to manage alone. Motorcycle accidents on winding roads like Laurel Canyon Boulevard or busy highways such as I-10 can have multiple contributing factors that need careful review. An attorney can guide you through the claims process, handle communications with insurance companies, and help protect your rights while you focus on recovery.

Opponent Playbook

Insurance companies often move quickly after a motorcycle accident to protect their own interests. They may look for weaknesses in a claim by questioning liability, helmet use, or the seriousness of injuries in an effort to reduce the amount they pay.

Insurers often try to minimize compensation in motorcycle accident cases by:

• Arguing that the rider’s failure to wear a helmet or other protective gear increased the severity of the injuries
• Claiming the motorcyclist shares fault for the accident under California’s comparative negligence rules
• Delaying the claims process and pressuring victims to accept a quick settlement
• Disputing liability, especially when multiple vehicles or parties are involved

Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers prepare for these strategies by:

• Working quickly to secure and preserve evidence that supports the claim
• Identifying and addressing arguments insurers may use to reduce compensation
• Coordinating with accident reconstruction specialists and other experts when necessary
• Handling communications and negotiations with insurance companies to reduce stress and pressure on injured riders

Personal injury attorneys in Los Angeles understand both California law and the tactics commonly used by insurance companies. Their experience can help protect injured riders from unnecessary pressure, delays, and settlement offers that may not reflect the full extent of their losses.

What does a motorcycle accident claim process look like?

A motorcycle accident claim is a step-by-step process of investigating the crash, documenting your injuries and losses, negotiating with insurance companies, and resolving the case through settlement or litigation when necessary. Although many claims follow a similar path, motorcycle accidents often involve unique issues such as disputed liability, helmet-related arguments, and serious injuries that require extensive documentation.

• Case Evaluation: Conducted during the initial consultation to determine whether there is a valid claim and what legal options may be available.
• Evidence Gathering and Case Building: Important evidence, such as police reports, medical records, witness statements, photographs, motorcycle damage, and traffic violation records, is collected and preserved to support the claim.
• Insurance Negotiations: The claim is presented to the insurance companies, and discussions begin regarding liability, damages, and possible compensation for the injuries and losses suffered.
• Settlement and Litigation: If the parties reach an agreement, the case is resolved through settlement. If an agreement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to court, including proceedings in the Los Angeles Superior Court when appropriate.

Each stage involves deadlines, documentation, and legal procedures. Balancing these responsibilities while recovering from motorcycle injuries can be challenging, especially when insurers dispute fault or the extent of your injuries.

What should you look for when choosing a motorcycle accident attorney in Los Angeles?

Before making a final decision about which law firm to hire, consider the firm’s experience handling motorcycle accident claims, ability to investigate complex crashes, reputation in personal injury law, trial readiness, and communication practices. 

Asking the following questions can help you gather the information you need to determine whether they can effectively handle the legal and practical challenges of your case.

How long have they been handling motorcycle accidents like yours?

Experience matters when handling motorcycle accident claims. Attorneys who have worked on these cases for many years are often more familiar with the challenges riders face, including severe injuries, liability disputes, and insurance company tactics.

Jacoby & Meyers has represented injured victims in motor vehicle accident cases, including motorcycle accidents, for more than 50 years. Our firm has helped thousands of clients throughout California and recovered billions in verdicts and settlements. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Do they have the knowledge and resources to handle the challenges that come with motorcycle accident cases?

Motorcycle accident claims can involve unique challenges, including serious injuries, disputes over helmet and safety gear use, and questions about comparative fault. It’s crucial to find a lawyer with the skills and resources to investigate the crash, preserve evidence, and build a well-supported claim.

Familiarity with Los Angeles roadways, local law enforcement agencies, courts, and insurance carriers can also be valuable when investigating and handling your case.

Do they have a strong reputation in personal injury law?

A law firm’s reputation can reflect its experience, professionalism, and commitment to its clients. Recognition from legal organizations and industry publications, along with respect within the legal community, can say a great deal about the reputation the firm has built through its service, professionalism, and dedication to its clients.

Jacoby & Meyers Los Angeles attorneys have earned recognition from legal organizations and are well respected within the legal community for their work on behalf of injured clients.

Are they prepared to take your case to court?

In many cases, it is in the best interest of the parties involved in a motorcycle accident claim to resolve the matter through settlement. However, insurance companies often consider whether a law firm is prepared to pursue litigation when evaluating a claim. A legal team with a litigation-ready approach may be better positioned to challenge undervalued settlement offers and pursue further legal action when necessary.

The legal team’s preparedness to take a case to court can strengthen a firm’s position when settlement negotiations do not fairly reflect the damages and losses involved

How do communications and fees work?

Before hiring an attorney, clarify who will handle day-to-day communications, how often case updates are provided, and how quickly questions are answered. Fee arrangements should also be clearly explained.

Jacoby & Meyers handles personal injury cases on a contingency fee basis. This means attorney fees are generally paid from any compensation recovered in the case. If there is no recovery, attorney fees are not charged. Clients may still be responsible for certain case-related costs, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Client Testimonials

The experiences shared by the people we’ve served provide insight into what it’s like to work with Jacoby & Meyers during a difficult and uncertain time. Their feedback reflects the professionalism, communication, and client-focused approach our team strives to provide throughout every case.

“Very happy and pleased to have contacted Jacoby & Meyers to handle my injury case. Yesica Ramirez is my case manager, thanks to her professionalism and genuine dedication everything has been a breeze and I feel at ease during this unexpected chapter. Thank you for your hard work and assuring me that my case is in great hands!”

• Juan Ramirez | Google Review

“I would definitely give Jacoby and Meyers a five-star review. They are handling everything with my case, and everything has gone relatively smoothly throughout the whole process. A special thanks to Jessica Martinez for her constant updates and making sure I get everything I need.”

• Edwin Furlow | Google Review

Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.

Real Case Results That Reflect Meaningful Outcomes

A serious motorcycle accident can have lasting effects on a person’s health, financial stability, and future. For more than 50 years, Jacoby & Meyers has recovered more than $2 billion in verdicts and settlements, helping injured victims and their families pursue compensation in cases involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death.

• $19 million – Ride-share passenger v. Auto / Quadriplegic
• $17.5 million – Bicycle v. Truck / Paraplegic
• $13 million – Wrongful death v. City
• $11.9 million – Wrongful Death v. Truck
• $11 million – Motorcycle v. Truck / Paraplegic
• $9.24 million – Auto v. Pedestrian / Spinal Cord Injury

Disclaimer: Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is unique, and results vary based on the circumstances, evidence, and applicable law.

Areas We Serve

Jacoby & Meyers represents motorcycle accident victims throughout Los Angeles and across California. In the Los Angeles area, we serve all surrounding communities, including:

• Downtown Los Angeles
• Hollywood
• Van Nuys
• Santa Monica
• Pasadena

We also represent injury victims through our statewide network of offices, including:

• Orange County
• San Jose
• San Francisco
• San Diego
• San Bernardino
• Sacramento
• Ontario
• Oakland
• Los Angeles
• Fresno 
• Escondido
• Brea
• Long beach
• Bakersfield

Local Resources

Emergency Rooms

• Los Angeles General Medical Center 1200 N State St, Los Angeles, CA 90033
• Harbor-UCLA Medical Center– 1000 W. Carson St., Torrance, CA 90509
• Olive View-UCLA Medical Center -14445 Olive View Dr. Sylmar, CA 91342
• Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center– 1401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015
• Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center – 1300 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Urgent Care Centers

• Care Fast Urgent Care- Burbank – 353 N Pass Ave Ste D Burbank, CA 91505
• First Aid Urgent Care – 7204 Foothill Blvd Tujunga, CA 91042
• Edward R. Roybal Comprehensive Health Center – 245 S. Fetterly Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90022
• H. Claude Hudson Comprehensive Health Center – 2829 South Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90007
• Ladera Urgent Care – 5311 W Centinela Ave Los Angeles, CA 90045

Local Courthouses

• Airport Courthouse – 11701 S. La Cienega Los Angeles, CA 90045
• Central Arraignment Courthouse – 429 Bauchet St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center – 210 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Disclaimer: We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accident Claims

What if the other driver claims they didn’t see me?

This is one of the most common issues in motorcycle collisions. Saying “I didn’t see the motorcycle” does not excuse unsafe driving. Evidence such as vehicle damage, scene photos, traffic-camera footage, and witness statements can help establish how the crash happened and whether the driver failed to yield, check blind spots, or otherwise exercise reasonable care.

What is the strongest evidence in a motorcycle accident claim?

The strongest evidence is often objective and time-stamped. This may include police reports, photographs or videos of the scene and vehicles, traffic or surveillance footage, witness statements, medical records connecting the injuries to the crash, and documentation of damages such as medical bills and lost income.

What should I do if the driver who hit me says the crash was my fault?

Fault is commonly disputed in motorcycle cases, and insurers may try to shift blame onto the rider. Preserve evidence early, including photos, witness contact information, and the police report number. Avoid recorded statements until you understand the facts and available coverage. Contact a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney to investigate and address liability under California’s comparative fault system.

What if the accident involved a rideshare or delivery driver?

Motorcycle accident cases involving rideshare or delivery drivers can entail multiple insurance policies, including personal coverage and commercial coverage tied to app status or job duties. Determining which policy applies often requires a careful review of the driver’s activity, insurance coverage, and the circumstances of the collision.

Will my motorcycle accident case go to trial?

The answer depends on the negotiations between the insurance companies and your legal team. Many motorcycle accident cases resolve through settlement, but a trial may be necessary if an insurer disputes fault or refuses to offer compensation that fairly reflects the damages involved. A litigation-ready legal team can prepare the case for negotiation while maintaining readiness to pursue litigation when appropriate.

If you have questions about a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, visit our FAQ page or contact us to discuss.

Strong Legal Guidance for Serious Motorcycle Injury

Don’t let a serious motorcycle injury take away your future. Our team is here to help you fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Call now or fill out our contact form to request a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss the details of your case.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.

Attorney Review & Office Information

Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.

Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067

24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792

Other Injury Cases We Take On

• Car Accidents 
• Personal Injury
• Truck Accidents
• Slip and Fall Accidents
• Dog Bites
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Scooter Accidents
• Premises Liability
• Hit and Run Accidents
• Construction Accidents
• Boat Accident
• Bicycle Accidents
• Paraplegia Injury
• Brain Injuries
• Catastrophic Injuries
• Burn Injuries
• Wrongful Death
• Laceration Injury
• Orthopedic Injury
• Whiplash Injury
• Amputations
• Broken Bone Injuries
• Neck and Back Injuries
• Neck Injuries
• Quadriplegia Injury
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Back Injury
• Rideshare Accidents