Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Who Fight for Injured Bikers
Our attorneys stand up for injured motorcyclists in the San Fernando Valley
Motorcycle riders face significant risks from negligent drivers, often suffering severe injuries at disproportionate rates, especially in places like Los Angeles. In the city, motorcycle riders are four times more likely to suffer fatal injuries than those in cars and trucks.
In California, motorcycle wrecks are frequently the result of careless drivers, not motorcyclists. However, despite a motorcycle rider’s right to compensation after an accident that was someone else’s fault, insurance companies can be unfair, denying claims and reinforcing stereotypes about “renegade bikers.” That’s when a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney can step in to protect your rights.
At Oaks Law Firm, we fight for what is right and fair. Our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers provide aggressive representation to ensure injured bikers get the maximum compensation they deserve under California law.
“Matt truly cares and it's easily felt! You'll definitely be taken care of.” - G.M., Torrance
After an LA motorcycle accident, contact us for a free case evaluation
Even if the other driver is clearly at fault, their insurance company may push for a quick lowball settlement before the true cost of injuries are fully known. This prioritizes their interests over yours. Never settle before contacting an experienced San Fernando Valley motorcycle accident lawyer first. Contact us. Learn how to get cash now for your injury claim.
Oaks Law Firm is here to protect your rights with our 20 years of experience successfully handling California injury claims. While past achievements are no guarantee of future success, our case results include a $745,000 outcome for a client injured in a motorcycle accident. Contact us for a free case evaluation, and we'll explain your options for justice and compensation.
Types of motorcycle accident cases we handle in LA County
Every day, riders in Los Angeles are struck and injured by drivers who are careless and irresponsible. Do not let them get away with it. The San Fernando Valley motorcycle accident attorneys at Oaks Law Firm have a proven track record of success handling all types of motorcycle accident claims, including but not limited to:
- Intersection collisions. Vehicles misjudging traffic signals or signage at intersections often collide with riders, mainly because they misjudgment or ignore red lights, endangering motorcyclists who have less protection.
- Lane-switching accidents. These occur when drivers change lanes without properly checking for bikers in their blind spots, leading to collisions because the motorcycles' smaller size makes them less visible.
- Rear-end collisions. A vehicle hits a rider from behind, commonly in unexpected slow traffic situations like at stoplights, due to the driver's failure to adjust speed in time.
- Head-on collisions. Among the most severe, these happen when a vehicle enters the opposite lane, causing a direct collision with an oncoming motorcyclist, leading to potentially catastrophic outcomes.
- Open door accidents. (“Dooring”): Bikers colliding with suddenly opened doors of parked cars, often resulting in significant injuries from being thrown off or into traffic.
- Mechanical failures. Crashes caused by brake, tire, or other mechanical faults in the motorcycle or another vehicle, leading to control loss and crashes, highlight the importance of regular maintenance.
The first moments after a motorcycle crash are critical. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor for a thorough examination as soon as possible. Serious injuries may not be immediately apparent due to the shock and adrenaline following a sudden crash. Seeking immediate medical attention protects your health and your compensation by creating an important piece of claim evidence – an official medical record of the accident.
Attorney Matthew Nezhad “is a true fighter for his clients' legal rights.” - Attorney M. Koohanim
Common motorcycle accident injuries
A motorcycle accident can cause severe trauma to the body, either when the body is impacted by another vehicle or when the body is thrown from the motorcycle and strikes the ground or another solid object. Some common, serious motorcycle accident injuries in LA County include:
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognitive functions, physical abilities, and emotional well-being. Helmets significantly reduce the risk of head injuries, but they are not foolproof. California requires motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets, but even if you weren’t wearing one at the time of the crash, you can still pursue a claim for financial compensation.
- Spinal cord injuries (SCI). Spinal cord injuries can have devastating consequences, including partial or complete paralysis. The impact severity during a crash can fracture vertebrae or cause direct harm to the spinal cord, potentially altering a victim’s life forever.
- Scarring, lacerations, and road rash. The lack of a protective barrier around a motorcyclist means direct exposure to the pavement in an accident, leading to severe skin abrasions known as road rash, deep cuts, and permanent scarring. In severe cases, road rash can become infected and lead to further complications.
- Broken bones. The force of a collision often results in broken or fractured bones, which are extremely common in motorcycle accidents. The lower extremities are particularly vulnerable, though arms, ribs, and collarbones frequently suffer breaks.
- Internal injuries. Internal organs can be damaged in a crash, leading to serious complications. These injuries might not be immediately apparent, making it critical for motorcycle accident victims to seek medical examination promptly.
- Soft tissue injuries. Injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, especially around the knees and shoulders, are common. While not always as immediately dramatic as other injuries, they can require significant time and therapy to heal.
- Back and neck injuries, paralysis. The impact force in a motorcycle accident can cause serious back and neck injuries, including herniated discs and spinal fractures. These injuries can lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, or even paralysis in severe cases.
- Amputation and loss of limbs. In severe cases, injuries may lead to the amputation of limbs, significantly impacting the victim’s quality of life and ability to perform everyday tasks.
Victims may face long recovery periods, costly medical bills, and the need for long-term care. Consulting with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help victims understand their rights and pursue the compensation needed to support their recovery and rehabilitation. Don't leave money on the table — Oaks Law Firm can fight for every dollar you're entitled to.
San Fernando Valley motorcycle accident hotspots
Hundreds of fatal and severe injury-causing motorcycle accidents happen in Los Angeles County in an average year. While a serious crash can happen anywhere, according to federal data, some spots in the San Fernando Valley see more accidents than others. Watch out around these crash hotspots:
- I 405, Sherman Oaks - Exit 63A Valley Vista Blvd / Sepulveda Blvd / Ventura Blvd through Exit 66A Sherman Way, and the 101 / 405 Interchange – About 3 fatal or serious motorcycle accidents in an average year.
- US 101, Encino, Woodland Hills – Exit 22 White Oak Ave through Exit 25 Winnetka Ave / Woodland Hills – About 2 fatal or serious motorcycle accidents in an average year.
Is lane splitting legal in Los Angeles?
Yes, lane splitting is legal in Los Angeles and throughout California. Lane splitting, also known as lane sharing or white-lining, refers to the practice of a motorcyclist riding between two lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. California is the only state in the U.S. where lane splitting is explicitly permitted by law.
The legality of lane splitting in California was clarified in 2016 when Assembly Bill 51 was passed, allowing the California Highway Patrol (CHP) to develop safety guidelines for it. While legal, riders should exercise caution and follow recommended safety practices to ensure their own and the safety of others on the road. Drivers should also be aware of lane-splitting motorcyclists and check their mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes.
Determining fault in a lane-splitting accident can be complex. Although lane splitting is legal, bikers and other drivers must adhere to safe driving practices. If a lane-splitting accident occurs, liability may depend on factors such as speed, road conditions, and the actions of both the motorcyclist and the other driver.
How much is my motorcycle accident claim worth?
In California, injured motorcycle accident victims can seek compensation under laws protecting those harmed by negligence. Settlements are often larger due to bikers' more severe injuries, resulting in higher medical costs and greater impacts on their lives. Typically, injured victims of motorcycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses. Covering current and future costs for hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
- Lost wages. Compensation for the time they are unable to work due to their injuries.
- Loss of earning capacity. For victims permanently unable to return to their previous employment.
- Pain and suffering. Addressing the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Wrongful death. May include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of consortium, emotional distress, and medical expenses prior to death.
At Oaks Law Firm, our motorcycle accident attorneys understand that you need compensation for your injuries and cannot afford to accept less than you deserve. That’s why our law firm has a no fee guarantee unless we win. Our fee is a percentage of the final compensation package. With this contingency fee structure, our clients are never at risk of having to pay out of pocket for our service. Call now! We are available 24/7 and always here to assist you after an accident.
“Matthew handled a wrongful death case for our family and obtained a great result - even though other so-called ‘experienced’ attorneys told us we didn’t have a case at all. I recommend him to anyone who is looking for an aggressive and professional attorney.” - C.
Los Angeles motorcycle accident FAQ
Here are some common questions victims have after they’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident:
What are the most common types of motorcycle accidents in California?
Who pays for medical bills in a motorcycle accident in California?
How much is the average motorcycle accident settlement in California?
How is the body injured in a motorcycle accident?
How long should I be sore after a motorcycle accident?
What to do after a motorcycle accident?
What is the statute of limitations on a motorcycle accident in California?
How to find the best motorcycle accident lawyer in California?
How our lawyers can help get the most money for your injuries
While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer, if you were injured or someone you love died in a motorcycle crash caused by someone else, you should at least talk to an experienced lawyer to protect your rights and discuss your legal options. Studies show that, on average, letting an attorney handle your claim results in more compensation compared to if you handled it on your own.
Oaks Law Firm knows what it takes to win in LA County. Let us fight to get you the maximum compensation you deserve. Here are just a few things we can do to put you in the best position to recover from a crash:
- Help you get appropriate medical care for your injuries.
- Launch a comprehensive investigation into your crash.
- Locate and preserve critical pieces of evidence to support your case.
- Find and interview eyewitnesses.
- Consult with accident reconstruction experts.
- Handle the insurance company.
- Negotiate for compensation on your behalf.
- Take your case to trial and fight for you in court, if necessary.
Riding a motorcycle doesn't make you responsible for injuries caused by someone else's negligence. The at-fault driver's insurance should compensate you. If you’ve been injured or a loved one died in a motorcycle crash, contact us now for a free case evaluation. We have offices in Sherman Oaks and Woodland Hills, and we offer legal representation to clients throughout LA County and Southern California.
What are the most common types of motorcycle accidents in California?
In California, motorcycle riders have the same rights to the road as car and truck drivers. But you wouldn’t know that the way some drivers act. Negligence by other drivers, like failure to yield or texting and driving, are common causes of severe crashes. Here are the most common types of motorcycle accidents due to the negligence of other drivers:
- Left-turn accidents
- Lane splitting accidents
- Rear-end collisions
- Head-on collisions
- T-bone accidents
- Dooring accidents
Who pays for medical bills in a motorcycle accident in California?
There may be other parties aside from the driver who hit you that may be legally responsible for your damages. Identifying these parties and holding them accountable is key to ensuring you receive the full compensation you deserve. Here are some common examples of potentially liable parties in a motorcycle accident:
- Other drivers. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the negligence of other drivers on the road, such as failing to yield the right of way, making unsafe lane changes, or not paying attention while driving.
- Government entities. Sometimes a motorcycle accident can be attributed to poorly maintained roads, unclear signage, or faulty traffic signals, which are the responsibility of local or state government entities. Filing a claim against a government body involves navigating a set of specific and often complex procedures, and there are often tighter deadlines for notifying the appropriate authorities of your intent to sue.
- Manufacturers. An accident may result from a defect in the design or manufacture of your motorcycle or one of its many components. If that is the case, you have the right under California product liability laws to sue the business that designed, manufactured, or sold the defective part.
How much is the average motorcycle accident settlement in California?
In California, the amount of a motorcycle accident settlement can vary widely depending on the specifics of the case, including the severity of injuries and the circumstances surrounding the crash. Due to the uniqueness of each case, including varying injury severity and crash circumstances, there is no meaningful average settlement figure. Each case requires individual evaluation for fair compensation.
How is the body injured in a motorcycle accident?
After a crash, riders can suffer various injuries due to their vulnerability and lack of protective barriers. Common scenarios include being ejected over the handlebars, getting caught in debris, sliding across the pavement under the bike, being thrown off the road into obstacles, suffering lower limb injuries if launched feet first, or being hit by other vehicles or the motorcycle itself after the initial impact. These traumatic events can result in a range of injuries from minor to life-threatening.
How long should you be sore after a motorcycle accident?
The soreness following a motorcycle accident can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the injury's severity. Some injuries are so severe they develop into lifelong, chronic pain. Importantly, it's essential to visit a doctor ASAP after the accident for a thorough examination, even if you feel fine. This step is crucial because there could be severe injuries that have not yet shown symptoms, and early detection can prevent further complications. In addition, seeing a medical professional right away establishes an important piece of claim evidence – an official medical record of your accident injuries.
What to do after a motorcycle accident?
If you're involved in a motorcycle accident, consider taking the following steps:
- Check for injuries. Prioritize your safety and health. Check yourself and others for injuries. Do not remove your helmet if you suspect a neck injury.
- Call 911. Report the accident to the police and request an ambulance if there are any injuries.
- Gather evidence. Exchange details with other parties involved (names, contact information, insurance details) and collect contact information of witnesses.
- Document the scene. Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and damages to your motorcycle and other vehicles.
- Seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, see a doctor immediately as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Do not admit fault. Avoid discussing fault or liability with other parties or insurance representatives.
- Report the crash to your insurer. Notify your insurance company, but be cautious about providing statements or accepting settlements.
- Keep records. Save all medical bills, repair estimates, and any other receipts related to the crash.
- Consult a motorcycle accident lawyer. Seek legal advice to understand your rights and to ensure fair compensation for your losses.
Remember to stay calm and focused following a crash to ensure the best possible outcome for your health and any subsequent legal proceedings.
What is the statute of limitations to file a motorcycle accident claim in California?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit following a motorcycle accident is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, in certain cases, this timeframe can be significantly shorter, necessitating immediate action. It's crucial to consult a lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your claim is filed within the legal deadlines and to navigate any challenges that may shorten these timeframes.
How to find the best motorcycle accident lawyer in California?
Start by looking for attorneys with extensive experience specifically in motorcycle accident cases. Check their track record for successful outcomes and client reviews to gauge their reputation and reliability. It's also important to choose a lawyer who is familiar with California's traffic laws and insurance regulations, as these can significantly impact your case. During your initial consultation, assess their communication skills and willingness to answer your questions, as a good lawyer should make you feel confident and informed throughout the legal process.