Motorcycle Accidents

California Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Tenacious Representation for Injured Motorcyclists in San Francisco

While motorcycles can offer riders a sense of freedom and exhilaration, they can also result in severe accidents and injuries. At Peterson Injury Law, we understand the tremendous pain, uncertainty, and financial hardships that come with a wrongful injury. If you or a loved one was harmed in a motorcycle crash in California, our motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue justice and fair compensation for your injuries.

With decades of experience and a reputation for securing record-breaking verdicts in San Francisco and beyond, our highly skilled attorney is well-equipped to represent your best interests in and out of the courtroom. Our firm has recovered millions in settlements and is proud to be recognized by Super Lawyers®, The National Trial Lawyers: Top 100®, and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®, underscoring our impressive record of results and commitment to excellence.

If you were harmed in a motorcycle crash, choose an award-winning injury lawyer to pursue justice. Contact us online to discuss your case.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics in California

Every year, thousands of Californians are injured in motorcycle accidents. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), there was a total of 7,639 motorcycle-involved crashes between 2021 and 2022, constituting an 8% increase from the previous year. The Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reported a 3.8% increase in motorcycle fatalities from 2021 to 2022, making it crucial to know your rights after a crash.

$3.75 Million Anesthesia Error
$6.25 Million Anoxic Brain Injury, Anesthesia Error
Record-Setting $17 Million Birth Injury Settlement

See More Wins

Erik, I'm incredibly grateful that [husband stroke victim] continues to improve - long after it was thought to be possible.
“He couldn't have managed independence to this extent, his current level of physical activity, or the complexity of his recent social interactions 6 months ago. None of it would have happened without ongoing therapeutic support - which has only been possible with the financial settlement.”

- Former Client
We are both ever grateful to you.
“In my world, you have been very successful in the ways most important, most lasting, most valuable. And I know that [deceased husband] feels this way as well.”

- Former Client
Erik Peterson handled my case with care and compassion.
“His knowledge and attention to detail was stellar, making me feel secure during a difficult case. Unlike most people in life, he was always upfront with me and kept me updated every step of the way, which is truly not what I was expecting from a lawyer. Although it was determined my case could take several years, especially during a pandemic, due to his dedication it was over in only 2yrs and made the process as easy for me as possible. I would absolutely recommend this firm and use him again if I ever need to, although I hope I don't.”

- Kristy N.
This whole experience can be overwhelming but Erik kept me in the loop on everything.
“My husband passed due to medical malpractice and I didn't know what to do or who to call. All I knew was I needed to get him justice. I researched and found Erik Peterson on google and reviewed various reviews on various sites. He was very patient and fought for me and my late husband. Erik told me what to expect ahead of time so I could prepare myself mentally. All in all, I HIGHLY recommend them to anyone who may need legal assistance in personal injury, medical malpractice and wrongful death. They are excellent and I can't say enough good things about them.”

- Kiki A.
Erik Peterson is by far the best attorney.
“Very knowledgeable, professional and honest. I needed an attorney for malpractice and from the moment we first had our meeting, he explained everything in terms I could easily understand and very thorough, was always very responsive when I had questions. The case wasn’t an easy one to settle, but Erik never lost hope and kept fighting. Any time I had to get ahold of the staff at the law firm for paperwork, they were always so understanding and very helpful and always got back to me in a timely manner. I would highly recommend Erik Peterson and his law firm. He was an excellent lawyer and truly a genuine person.”

- Lila D.

Common Injuries Resulting from Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protective caging between riders and the surrounding road. Common injuries resulting from motorcycle collisions include:

Amputations. Amputation and limb loss are common in motorcycle accidents due to the lack of protection between riders and the surrounding road, resulting in debilitating long-term health outcomes.
Burn injuries. Riders may suffer burn injuries due to hot engine parts, exhaust pipes, or collisions leading to explosions or fires, increasing the risk of severe pain and scarring.
Spinal cord injuries. The high force involved in a motorcycle accident can result in severe damage to the spinal cord, increasing the risk of full or partial paralysis and loss of motor functioning.
Traumatic brain injuries. A rider may suffer a TBI when their head strikes the pavement or other hard surfaces during a collision, leading to potential cognitive impairments and long-term disabilities.
Broken bones and fractures. High-speed impacts and the possibility of being ejected from their bikes can leave riders susceptible to broken bones and fractures, particularly in the arms, legs, ribs, or pelvis.
Internal injuries. The blunt force trauma of a collision may damage vital organs like the liver or lungs, causing internal bleeding and other life-threatening complications that necessitate emergency care.

What Damages Are Recoverable in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Compensation for a motorcycle accident claim generally falls into two categories: economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages compensate for direct financial losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. Non-economic damages compensate for indirect subjective losses, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

In rare cases involving extreme negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar misconduct in the future. No matter the extent of your injuries, our firm can work diligently to maximize the value of your claim by identifying all negligent parties and accurately assessing available damages.

How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in California?

In California, the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. If a government entity is involved, this duration may be reduced to six months. Failure to file within this timeframe could result in losing your right to pursue compensation, making it crucial to partner with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. Our attorney is well-versed in these legal intricacies to evaluate your claim with a practiced legal eye and help you file a claim within the appropriate deadline.

Who Is Liable for a Damages in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Determining liability in a motorcycle accident claim is a complex yet essential step to recovering compensation for medical costs and other financial burdens during your recovery. Working with a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer is paramount to identifying negligent parties and holding them accountable.

Some potentially liable parties include:

Negligent motorists. Other drivers are often responsible parties in motorcycle accident claims. If another motorist caused the crash by violating traffic laws, such as running a red light or failing to yield the right-of-way, they may be liable.
Government entities. If the motorcycle accident was caused by poorly maintained roads, missing signage, negligent maintenance, or other dangerous hazard, the government body responsible for maintaining safe roads may be liable for damages.
Motorcycle manufacturers. If the motorcycle accident was caused by faulty brakes, defective tires, or other mechanical defect or malfunction, the manufacturer may be held responsible for resulting injuries.
Commercial employers. If a commercial vehicle caused the accident, such as an Uber, Lyft, or delivery van, the employer of the at-fault driver may share liability if the motorist was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the collision.

Can I Recover Compensation in a Motorcycle Accident Claim if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?

In California, all motorcycle riders are required to wear a helmet under Vehicle Code § 27803. While this doesn’t necessarily prohibit you from recovering compensation after an accident, it can still affect the outcome of your case. Failure to comply with the state’s mandatory helmet law may influence how liability and damages are determined in your claim.

California follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning that plaintiffs can recover compensation even if they are partially at fault for the accident. However, any compensation awarded will be reduced by your percentage of the fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault for an accident totaling $20,000 in damages, you may only be entitled to $16,000 ($4,000 or 20% less than the original value).

If you were injured in a motorcycle crash without wearing a helmet, you should know that defendants and their insurers often have extensive legal teams working on their behalf to reduce just payouts. If forgoing a helmet is found to have worsened your injuries, your compensation may be diminished accordingly, making it essential to partner with a skilled attorney as soon as possible.

At Peterson Injury Law, we have a deep understanding of these legal complexities to protect your rights, maximize your recovery, and work tirelessly to demonstrate how the other party’s negligence played a critical role in the accident. Our office is available 24/7 to address any questions or concerns you have, giving you peace of mind that your financial future is in trusted hands.

WE'RE HERE FOR YOU

Do I Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

If you were wrongfully injured in a motorcycle accident, the last thing you need is additional stress. Securing legal representation can mean the difference between recovering a full settlement and walking away with less than you deserve. Some important reasons to work with a motorcycle accident lawyer include:

Case investigation. Your lawyer can investigate the unique circumstances of the accident to identify negligent parties and build a compelling case.
Proving liability. Your attorney can fight to hold negligent parties accountable by gathering evidence to meet the burden of proof in your claim.
Maximizing compensation. A qualified legal advocate can assess every avenue for financial recovery to maximize the value of your claim.
Trial representation. Your lawyer can represent your best interests at trial if necessary to prevent you from settling for less than you deserve.

If you were wrongfully injured in a motorcycle accident, our firm can fight for the fair settlement you deserve. Call (415) 630-2913 to schedule a free consultation.

Because every action matters

One call can change everything—take that first step

First Name
Last Name
Phone
Email
Are you a new client?
How can we help you?
By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Peterson Injury Law at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

Contact 415-630-2913

Address

230 California St
Suite 501
San Francisco, CA 94111

Map & Directions