We Win Motorcycle Accident Cases.

Why Motorcycle Crashes Are So Dangerous for Riders

Unlike cars, motorcycles do not provide outer protection and have fewer safety features like seat belts and airbags, so even minor collisions cause serious injury.

Motorcycle laws vary in each state and differ from those for other vehicles. In California, lane splitting is legal, but in other states, it is not. Conversely, helmet use is mandatory in the state but not in Arizona or Florida, among others. Because these laws are inconsistent throughout the U.S., there is often confusion regarding what is and is not allowed.

Motorcycle accidents are caused by several factors, but they are most commonly caused by reckless and negligent passenger vehicle drivers. This is why injured motorcyclists pursue damages, and DK Law specializes in getting them the maximum compensation they are legally entitled to.

Do I Need a Lawyer?

If you ride, you already know—motorcyclists often get unfairly blamed when crashes happen. Even when the other driver is clearly at fault, it’s not uncommon for the rider to be treated like the problem. And after an accident, that bias can cost you.

The truth is, recovering from a motorcycle wreck is tough enough. Trying to deal with insurance companies, medical bills, and legal paperwork on top of that? It’s a lot. Insurance adjusters count on that stress. They’ll offer a quick, low payout and hope you take it before realizing how much your injuries are really worth.

That’s where an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help.

At DK Law, we know the roads, we know the laws, and we know what you’re up against. We’ve helped riders across California stand up to insurers, get the medical care they need, and recover the money they deserve—especially when injuries are serious.

Even if you’re being told you were partially at fault, don’t assume you’re out of options. California’s comparative negligence laws still allow you to recover compensation. But you’ll need a strong legal team to fight for it—and that’s exactly what we do.

What Usually Causes Motorcycle Crashes?

Motorcyclists have every right to use the road just like any other driver. Unfortunately, many motorists fail to respect that right, putting riders at serious risk. 

Here are some of the most common factors that lead to motorcycle crashes:

Failure to Yield

When drivers don’t yield the right-of-way to motorcycles, the results can be catastrophic.

Left Turns

Left-hand turns at intersections are one of the leading causes of motorcycle crashes nationwide.

Speeding

High-speed collisions are especially dangerous for riders, often leading to life-altering injuries or death.

Distracted Driving

Drivers who are texting, eating, or otherwise not paying attention often overlook nearby motorcycles.

Road Hazards

Potholes, gravel, oil slicks, debris, or uneven pavement can cause motorcycles to lose control, especially when visibility is low.

Impaired Driving

Drunk or drug-impaired drivers pose a serious threat to everyone, especially motorcyclists.

Who Is at Fault: The Driver or the Rider?

Determining fault in a motorcycle accident isn’t always straightforward. While many people assume that motorcyclists are to blame, investigations often reveal that other parties are responsible. Under comparative fault laws, fault can fall on one or multiple parties, including:

• Other Drivers: Negligence by other motorists, such as distracted driving, speeding, or failing to yield the right of way.
• Government Entities: If poor road conditions like potholes, missing signage, or uneven pavement contributed to the crash, a local or state agency may be held liable.
• Motorcycle Manufacturers: Defective parts, such as brakes, tires, or steering components, can lead to catastrophic failures, making the manufacturer or parts distributor legally responsible.
  

How Fault Is Determined 

Most states follow a comparative fault system, which means each party involved can be assigned a percentage of blame. Even if you’re partially at fault, you may still recover compensation, but your damages will be reduced by your percentage of responsibility. 

Investigating fault typically involves analyzing police reports, eyewitness statements, surveillance footage, vehicle damage, road conditions, and expert testimony.

What Helmet Laws Mean for Your Case

Most states have laws requiring riders and their passengers to wear helmets. 

For example, California enforces a universal helmet law, requiring all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear a DOT-compliant helmet. While not wearing a helmet does not automatically bar you from compensation, it could affect how much you receive, especially in cases involving head injuries.

Understanding who’s at fault and how helmet laws play into your claim can be complicated. Our motorcycle accident attorneys are here to guide you through every step.

Common Motorcycle Injuries – And Why They’re So Severe

Because motorcycles offer little physical protection compared to passenger vehicles, riders are especially vulnerable during collisions. 

Even at moderate speeds, an accident can result in devastating physical and emotional trauma. Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Road rash
• Internal injuries
• Facial and dental injuries
• Disfigurement and scarring
• Burns 
• Soft tissue injuries
• Amputation
• Psychological trauma

How Much Is My Case Really Worth?

The value of a motorcycle accident case depends on the full scope of your financial and emotional losses. 

Unlike a typical car accident, motorcycle crashes often lead to severe injuries, long recovery periods, and significant disruptions to daily life. An experienced attorney will account for every detail to ensure you pursue the maximum compensation available.

Economic Damages

These cover the measurable financial costs resulting from your accident:

• Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Motorcycle repairs or replacement
• Out-of-pocket expenses (transportation, in-home care, etc.)

Non-Economic Damages

These reflect the emotional and physical toll of the accident, which insurance companies often try to undervalue:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress, including PTSD
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement or disability
• Loss of companionship or consortium

Deadlines for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to act quickly because time is not on your side. The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including motorcycle accident claims, is generally two years from the date of the accident.  

This legal deadline is strict: if you miss it, you could lose your right to pursue compensation entirely. The team at DK Law is ready to take your call.