Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Los Angeles
Fighting For Motorcycle Accident Victims in California
Riding a motorcycle through the streets of Los Angeles offers an unparalleled sense of freedom, from the scenic curves of Mulholland Drive to the coastal stretches of the PCH. However, that freedom comes with significant risks. In a city known for heavy traffic and distracted drivers, motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable road users.l.
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, contact our firm online or call us at (888) 484-2033 today. You deserve guidance and a proactive approach to your recovery from our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer.
Dedicated Advocates, Always in your Corner A Team You Can Trust
Carpenter & Zuckerman is a leading personal injury law firm founded on the principle that justice for injured people takes precedence over corporate profits. CZ Law has the resources and legal expertise to fight powerful insurance carriers and corporations that do everything they can to limit their liability.
California Motorcycle Laws
California has specific statutes designed to protect riders and maintain order on our busy freeways. Understanding these laws is crucial, as they can significantly impact your personal injury claim.
- Universal Helmet Law: Under California Vehicle Code § 27803, all riders and passengers must wear a safety helmet that meets DOT standards. Failure to wear a helmet can be used as evidence of comparative negligence if you sustain head injuries.
- Lane Splitting (AB 51): California is unique in that it formally legalized lane splitting. Motorcyclists are permitted to drive between rows of stopped or moving vehicles in the same lane, provided it is done in a "safe and prudent" manner.
- Motorcycle Licensing: To legally operate a motorcycle in Los Angeles, you must possess a Class M1 or M2 driver’s license, which requires passing both a written exam and a skills test (or completing a CMSP training course).
- Comparative Fault: California follows a "pure comparative negligence" rule. This means even if you were 20% at fault for an accident, you can still recover 80% of your damages.
Causes & Types of Motorcycle Collisions
Motorcycle accidents are so dangerous primarily because motorcyclists and their passengers have very little protection against injury other than any safety gear they may be wearing. Vehicle crashes involving motorcycles are also more likely to occur due to the motorcycle’s small size and low visibility to other drivers. In fact, the NHTSA reported that the fatality rate for motorcycles was 58.33 per 100,000 registered vehicles, compared to the fatality rate of 9.42 for passenger cars in 2019.
Common causes and types of collisions in Los Angeles are:
- Head-On Collisions: Most motorcycle deaths happen in head-on collisions, as noted in a 2019 NHTSA Report. Specifically, 76% of fatal crashes with two vehicles were head-on. These collisions typically occur at high speeds, making them extremely dangerous for those involved.
- Left-Hand Turns: Half of the 2,495 motorcycle deaths in 2019 occurred during left-hand turns. Drivers may not see motorcycles or misjudge their speed. Motorcyclists must follow traffic laws to avoid being at fault. These incidents often occur at intersections, which are particularly hazardous areas for motorcyclists in Los Angeles.
- Lane Splitting: Lane splitting, riding between lanes, is legal in California but can be dangerous on busy Los Angeles freeways like I-5 and I-405. Although it helps reduce congestion, it requires great skill and caution because of the reduced space and reaction time it allows.
- Vehicle Lane Changes: Accidents happen when drivers don't notice motorcyclists in blind spots and change lanes. Riders need to be aware of their surroundings and anticipate the actions of nearby vehicles to avoid accidents.
- Rear-End Collisions: While less deadly than head-on crashes, rear-end accidents can still seriously injure motorcyclists due to lack of protection. Proper spacing between vehicles and defensive driving practices can help reduce these incidents.
- Road Hazards: Poorly maintained roads are dangerous for motorcycles. Hazards like debris or potholes can be deadly since motorcycles lack enclosure. Riders should be vigilant and ready to react to sudden changes in road conditions.
OUR PRACTICE AREAS How We Can Help
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Vehicle Accidents
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Catastrophic Injury
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Premises Liability
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Civil Rights
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Assault
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Product Liability
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Medical Malpractice
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Catastrophic Injury
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Civil Rights
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Product Liability
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Medical Malpractice
A Few Of Our Big Wins
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$131M Car Accident
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$74.53M Birth Injury
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$45M Drunk Driver
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$31.7M Brain Injury
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$29.25M Brain Injury
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$21.65M Motorcycle Accident
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$17M Brain Injury
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$16.4M Medical Malpractice
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$14.6M Commercial Vehicle
Our Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Can Help With Your Claim
If you are hurt in a motorcycle accident by someone else's negligence, contact Carpenter & Zuckerman. Our Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorneys have decades of experience with complex claims. We understand how traumatic motorcycle accidents are and recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll they can take. Our team is committed to easing your burden so you can focus on healing.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Los Angeles work hard to get you the best possible outcome. We have a strong track record, securing over $3 billion in settlements since 1995. This is a testament to our dedication and our ability to navigate the intricacies of personal injury claims effectively. We pursue every avenue of compensation, ensuring that no stone is left unturned in your pursuit of justice.
Fill out our online form for a FREE, no-obligation consultation! You won’t pay legal fees unless we win. We are committed to supporting you through this challenging time with the guidance and action you expect from our motorcycle accident lawyers in Los Angeles.
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My car was rear ended, aggravating a bulging disc. Carpenter & Zuckerman set up all my doctor appointments and paid for everything up front. They were able to get me a settlement for both my injury case and property damage case. I am very happy with the way they handled my case.- Ben A.
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- Larry T.
Carpenter & Zuckerman team was very helpful and informative. Especially Edward Cherkezian and Disha Bhagwat. This was my first time doing any of this and they helped me through step by step. Would recommend!
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My attorneys Pej and Mario were absolutely amazing. They made everything easy for me handling everything very well. They set me up perfectly to help get me the best results I could ask for. Truly appreciate all their hard work!!- Neena Z.
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- Jon C.
It was a pleasure working with C&Z. Edward was extremely helpful in making me feel confident in their ability. Would highly recommend.
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Vlad had my case that was going on for 2 years, resolved in less that 2 months! They are always on top & update you every step of the way- Luna U.
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- C.H.
Very professional. Had an amazing experience after our vehicle accident. Referral so many people because of the good experience. You're in good hands! I wouldn't go anywhere else.