California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

California motorcycle accidents can and do happen - and according to the United States Department of Transportation (DOT), nearly 80 percent of motorcycle accidents are either fatal or cause injuries. Bottom line: if you're on the road, there's a likelihood you might be involved in a California motorcycle accident. Luckily, a knowledge of California laws pertaining to motorcycles and an understanding of your legal rights can do much to protect you from an accident and help you if you do get into trouble.

California motorcycle accident laws are similar to those in other states. However, a few California-specific laws do apply. For example, California is the only state in the nation that permits lane splitting, a practice in which a motorcyclist shares a lane with another vehicle on a road or highway in order to "squeeze" past slow or creeping traffic. California motorcyclists must wear helmets at all times and must carry liability insurance at all times. In order to legally drive a motorcycle in California, you must possess a Class M1 or M2 license and pass a skills test. The California Department of Motor Vehicles offers motorcycle safety courses, which are mandatory for motorcycle drivers under the age of 21 and may reduce the insurance costs of drivers over 21.

Motorcycle accidents can occur due to various causes, including mechanical failures, driver inexperience, driver fatigue or adverse weather conditions. In addition, motorcyclists are placed at additional risk by automobile drivers, who often do not notice or know how to share the road with motorcyclists. If you are involved in a motorcycle/automobile crash, be ready to document the scene of the accident and exchange as much information with the other party as possible, including driver's license number, license plate number, and insurance information.

Even if insurance gets involved in your California motorcycle accident, it is important to protect your legal rights. Never sign a document that is presented to you by an adverse insurance company without having an experienced California motorcycle accident lawyer review it for you. And never enter into insurance negotiations alone. Having an aggressive motorcycle attorney on your side can not only help you obtain a favorable settlement with another party's insurer - it can also protect your legal rights in civil or criminal lawsuits that might stem from your California motorcycle accident. Hiring the right motorcycle attorney can help you recover the money you deserve in a case in which you are injured or your property is damaged through a California motorcycle accident.

Richard M. Lester and all the attorneys at AIM (Aid to Injured Motorcyclists) have recovered over $150 million for clients injured in motorcycle accidents. They have the legal experience you need - and are experienced riders, as well. Don't settle for a single lawyer - hire the legal team that can help you recover cash for your motorcycle injury. Contact AIM at 800-ON-A-BIKE for your free consultation today.