SAN FRANCISCO MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER

CALL BOSTWICK & PETERSON, LLP FOR A FREE CONSULTATION IN CALIFORNIA!

In the Bay Area and San Francisco there are some of the most beautiful places to ride a motorcycle. There are many reckless, inattentive, and distracted drivers on our roads, causing our roadways to become congested and dangerous. When they cause injuries, drivers who disregard the rules of the road should be held accountable.

Traffic accidents often aren't the fault of motorcycle riders. Motorcycle accidents are often caused by motorcycles' reduced profile, which reduces their visibility, as well as by reckless or distracted automobile drivers. In the event that you or a loved one has been seriously injured, or if a loved one has been killed in a motorcycle accident, we will assist you and hold the negligent party accountable.

At Bostwick & Associates, our San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyers are available to evaluate your legal options and discuss how we may be able to represent you in a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.

Learn more about our firm by calling 888-831-8448 and discuss a potential case during a FREE consultation. Contact us to speak with a motorcycle accident lawyer in San Francisco.

Motorcycle Laws in California

California has specific laws designed to protect motorcyclists and promote safety on the road. Knowing these rules is essential, both for safe riding and for understanding liability after an accident.

• Helmet Law – All motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet at all times.
• Lane Splitting – California is the only state that expressly allows lane splitting, where motorcyclists ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. However, lane splitting must be done safely and prudently.
• Licensing Requirements – Motorcyclists must have an M1 or M2 license, depending on the type of motorcycle they operate.
• Equipment Rules – Motorcycles must be equipped with proper lights, mirrors, and functional exhaust systems. Riders must also use daytime headlights.

Violations of these laws can impact liability in an accident case. That’s why it’s critical to have an attorney who understands both the unique rights of motorcyclists and how California law applies in accident claims.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes in San Francisco often result from the negligence of other motorists. Some of the most common causes include:

• Distracted Driving – Drivers using phones or failing to pay attention often overlook motorcyclists.
• Unsafe Lane Changes – Motorists sometimes fail to check blind spots, cutting off riders.
• Speeding – Excessive speed reduces reaction times and increases the severity of crashes.
• Failure to Yield – Many collisions occur when cars fail to yield at intersections or when turning left in front of a motorcycle.
• Driving Under the Influence – Intoxicated drivers are a serious danger to motorcyclists.
• Poor Road Conditions – Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement can cause catastrophic motorcycle accidents.

When another party’s negligence causes your crash, a skilled San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer at Bostwick & Associates can investigate, gather evidence, and hold them accountable.

Common Injuries in a Motorcycle Crash

Motorcycle riders lack the protection of seatbelts, airbags, and vehicle frames. As a result, their injuries tend to be more severe than those sustained in car accidents. Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI) – Even with helmets, riders may suffer concussions or severe brain trauma.
• Spinal Cord Injuries – Damage to the spine can cause paralysis or long-term mobility challenges.
• Broken Bones & Fractures – Legs, arms, and ribs are especially vulnerable in crashes.
• Road Rash – Severe abrasions occur when riders are thrown from their bikes and slide across pavement.
• Internal Injuries – Organ damage and internal bleeding are life-threatening if not treated immediately.
• Fatal Injuries – Sadly, many motorcycle crashes result in wrongful death.

These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Victims may be unable to work, leaving them with mounting financial strain. That’s why securing full compensation is essential.

Compensation Available for Injured Riders

A successful motorcycle accident claim in California can help victims recover both economic and non-economic damages. At Bostwick & Associates, we fight to recover compensation for:

• Medical Expenses – Current and future treatment, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Wages – Compensation for time missed from work and loss of future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering – Physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
• Property Damage – Repair or replacement of your motorcycle and gear.
• Wrongful Death Damages – Funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship for surviving families.

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, but with an experienced San Francisco motorcycle accident attorney on your side, you can pursue the maximum compensation you are entitled to.

Motorcycle Accident Claim FAQs

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

You generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, if the claim involves a government entity, the deadline may be much shorter.

What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partly responsible, though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Should I talk to the insurance company after my accident?

Insurance companies often look for ways to reduce payouts. It’s best to avoid giving recorded statements until you have spoken with an attorney.

What if the driver who caused the accident is uninsured?

You may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. An attorney can help explore your options.

Do I need a lawyer for my motorcycle accident claim?

Yes. Motorcycle accident cases are complex and often involve disputes about fault. A lawyer ensures your rights are protected and fights for fair compensation.

Why Choose Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in San Francisco?

Before you sign any documents or accept any settlements, consulting experienced representation is in your best interest. A motorcycle accident lawyer in San Francisco can ensure you have the resources to conduct investigations, consult experts, and build the strongest possible claim. What’s more, statistics show personal injury plaintiffs who have an attorney recover, on average, three times more compensation than those without.

• $21M for a 56-year-old woman who suffered a mild TBI when her vehicle was struck by a truck. This is the largest non-punitive award of its type of an individual in California state history.
• $17M for a baby born with brain damage due to a failure to treat a routine maternal infection. This is believed to be the largest medical malpractice recovery in California history.
• $5M for the parents of a 14-year-old child who was killed in an ATV rollover at her bible camp. At the time, this was the largest settlement for the wrongful death of a child in CA history.
• $3.5M for a motorcyclist with vertebral artery dissection that was not promptly diagnosed and treated by emergency hospital health care providers.

Discuss your potential motorcycle accident lawsuit with a San Francisco lawyer from Bostwick & Associates at 888-831-8448. Consultations are FREE and confidential.