Motorcycle accidents often leave riders at a significant disadvantage. Unlike passenger vehicles, motorcycles offer no steel frame, airbags, or crumple zones—meaning even low-speed crashes can result in catastrophic injuries. If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle crash in California, understanding your legal rights is the first essential step toward securing the compensation you need and deserve. That is where Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn can help.
Motorcycle collisions frequently involve careless drivers who overlook riders when changing lanes, merging, or making left turns. Yet, despite being the victim, many motorcyclists find themselves blamed for their own injuries due to unfair bias. Insurance companies often try to paint riders as risk-takers or reckless, using these stereotypes to reduce payout values. Working with an attorney who understands these tactics is critical to leveling the playing field.
Why Motorcycle Accident Claims Are Treated Differently
Motorcycle accident cases are not handled the same way as standard auto collisions. Riders are exposed to a much higher likelihood of severe outcomes such as:
- Road rash that results in skin loss and infection
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones or amputations
- Spinal cord injuries
- Permanent scarring or disfigurement
Medical bills alone can quickly reach tens of thousands of dollars—sometimes in just the first week after the crash. This is why it is vital to pursue the full value of your claim rather than accepting a fast insurance settlement that does not cover long-term costs.
In California, riders may recover compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost income and loss of future earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Therapy or rehabilitation costs
- Motorcycle repair or replacement
An attorney at Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn can assess your damages and determine whether additional forms of compensation may also apply, including punitive damages in cases involving drunk or reckless drivers.
Determining Liability in a Motorcycle Crash
One of the most misunderstood aspects of motorcycle accident cases is fault. Many riders assume that because they were on a motorcycle, the law may be stacked against them. However, California law provides strong protections for injured motorcyclists.
Common factors that establish liability include:
- A driver failing to yield while making a left turn
- Unsafe lane changes without checking mirrors or blind spots
- Distracted driving
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Opening a car door into traffic (known as “dooring”)
California also follows a comparative negligence rule, which means you may still receive compensation even if you were partially at fault. For example, if investigators conclude you were 20% responsible but the driver was 80% responsible, you may still recover 80% of your damages.
What to Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident
Taking the right steps after a collision can make a major difference in the strength of your legal claim. After seeking medical attention, riders should:
- Gather photos or video of the scene
- Get contact information from witnesses
- Keep all medical records and bills
- Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters before contacting a lawyer
- Never accept a settlement or sign paperwork without legal review
Insurance companies move fast after a crash—often calling victims within hours. Their goal is to limit the amount they must pay. Before you speak to them, Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn can step in and handle those communications for you to protect your rights.
How Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn Supports Motorcycle Injury Victims
When you work with Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn, you have a legal partner who understands both the physical and financial strain you are experiencing. The firm can:
- Investigate the accident and reconstruct events if needed
- Work with medical experts to project future care needs
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies
- Take your case to trial if negotiations are not enough
Your recovery should be your top priority—not worrying about medical bills or fighting adjusters. Let Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn take the burden off your shoulders.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle collision, contact Law Offices of Michael A. Kahn today at (310) 209-1600 to schedule a free consultation and learn how to move forward.
