San Francisco Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Bay Area Motorcycle Accident Injury Claims Explained
Motorcycle accidents kill hundreds and injure thousands of riders in California every year. Unfortunately, many of these accidents are preventable, and are often caused by other negligent motorists who cut motorcyclists off in traffic, nearly run them off the road, or fail to yield when the biker had the right-of-way.
According to statistics from the NHTSA, motorcyclists are five times more likely to suffer injuries in a motor vehicle accident and 26 times more likely to die than the occupants of a passenger vehicle. The fact is: Drivers of larger vehicles tend not to see motorcycles; this negligence often results in accidents and injuries.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents involving neligent drivers include:
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Driving while distracted or intoxicated
- Making an unsafe lane change
- Opening car doors without looking
- Making an abrupt or sudden stop
- Turning into the path of a motorcyclist
- Failing to give riders enough space
At Rouda Feder Tietjen & McGuinn, our motorcycle accident attorneys in San Francisco understand the dangerous situations that motorcyclists must commonly face. They have far less protection than passenger vehicles and are subject to much more devastating injuries. Let us fight to help you recover the compensation you deserve after another driver causes an accident that leaves you suffering from a serious injury.
Call our SF motorcycle accident attorneys at (415) 940-7176 to discuss how we can help.
California Motorcycle Laws
California has some of the most comprehensive motorcycle laws in the nation. As a motorcyclist in San Francisco, it’s essential to understand your rights and responsibilities on the road.
Key motorcycle laws in California include:
- Helmet Requirement: All riders and passengers must wear U.S. DOT-compliant helmets at all times.
- Lane Splitting: Lane splitting is legal, but riders are expected to do so safely and prudently.
- License and Endorsement: Riders must have a Class M1 or M2 motorcycle license.
- Equipment Requirements: Motorcycles must be equipped with working headlights, turn signals, mirrors, and mufflers that comply with noise regulations.
Violations of these laws can impact your ability to seek compensation, especially if the insurance company or other party tries to shift blame onto you.
Compensation from a Motorcycle Crash
Victims of motorcycle accidents often face significant financial and emotional burdens. Our San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyers will pursue the full range of compensation available under California law, including:
- Medical Expenses: Past, current, and future medical bills related to the accident.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for missed work or loss of future earning capacity.
- Pain and Suffering: For the physical pain and emotional distress endured.
- Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your motorcycle.
- Wrongful Death: If a loved one was lost, we can help surviving family members pursue a wrongful death claim.
We work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and financial professionals to calculate the true value of your claim.
FAQs About Motorcycle Claims in San Francisco, CA
How long do I have to file a claim?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is two years from the date of the accident. Delaying can jeopardize your case, so it’s best to consult a lawyer as soon as possible.
What if I were partially at fault?
California follows a comparative negligence system, meaning you can still recover damages even if you were partly at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?
Seek medical attention, report the accident, gather evidence (photos, witness info), and contact an attorney. Avoid discussing the crash with insurance adjusters before speaking to a lawyer.
Do I need a lawyer after a motorcycle accident in San Francisco?
Yes. While it's possible to handle a claim on your own, having a seasoned San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer increases your chances of receiving fair compensation. We manage the legal process so you can focus on healing.
How Insurance Companies Treat Bikers
Unfortunately, insurance companies often stereotype motorcyclists as reckless or risky, which can work against you when filing a claim. Even if you were following all traffic laws, adjusters may try to minimize your injuries or shift blame onto you.
At Rouda Feder Tietjen & McGuinn, we know how to challenge these unfair tactics. We handle all communication with the insurance company and push back hard against lowball settlement offers. Our goal is to ensure you're treated fairly and receive maximum compensation.
Our Proven Success: Motorcycle Accident Case Results
Our lawyers are recognized for the results we obtain on behalf of our clients. If you or a loved one has suffered a serious injury, it is crucial that you choose an attorney with a proven record of success.
As an example, our firm was able to recover $8,750,000 in a wrongful death case on behalf of a family who lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident that was caused by an inattentive driver. In another case, our firm recovered $1,250,000 when a driver made a last-second lane change and struck the motorcyclist.
Attorney John Feder discusses a $8,750,000 recovery he obtained in a fatal motorcycle accident case.
Contact our San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer today at (415) 940-7176 and let us get started on your claim.
Real Stories. Real People.
See what our clients have to say
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- Client of RFTM
I had the pleasure of working with June Bashant, and she truly exceeded all expectations. After my devastating accident, June and her team worked tirelessly on my behalf, leaving no stone unturned to secure the best possible outcome. She is a powerhouse of tenacity and determination, relentlessly pursuing justice with an innovative, out-of-the-box approach that led to life-changing results, including care that will last a lifetime.
From the very start, June’s communication skills were exceptional—she kept me well-informed and supported throughout the entire process. Her professionalism was evident, but it was her genuine compassion and care that made me feel like a priority. She wasn’t just an attorney; she was a fierce advocate, fighting on my behalf every step of the way.
June’s strategic mindset, intelligence, and sheer determination set her apart. She far exceeded my expectations in every area and had a remarkable network of professionals to help with every facet of my case. Her personal touch, combined with her incredible expertise, made me feel confident that I had the best team behind me.
If you’re facing a medical malpractice or personal injury case, June Bashant is the attorney you want in your corner. She is a force to be reckoned with in the legal world—unmatched in her dedication, skill, and drive. Her reputation for delivering powerful, life-altering results speaks for itself. I couldn’t have asked for a more unstoppable attorney.
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Thank you Sir once again! This time for helping my son Leon McDermand attain the services of June Bashant, who he has himself said many times, that she did a magnificent job for him. This is the third family member, including myself, that you and RFTM have helped. Thank you once again Tim, and please thank June and Robert, who helped my Daughter Elena.- Robert
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“I cannot thank you enough for the pure excellence.”- Michelle
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“I am very grateful for all the hard work all the staff did. GREAT STAFF!”- Guadalupe Hernandez
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“I valued the clear communication, prompt replies, and frank interaction.”- Jackie Q.
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“They work tirelessly to uncover the evidence necessary to obtain the very best result for the injured people they represent.”- Heidi Taylor, Law Offices of Heidi Taylor
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“They approach each case with creativity and care.”- Michael J Ney, McNamara, Ney, Beatty, Slattery, Borges & Brothers LLP
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“I cannot say enough about the compassion, professionalism, and expertise.”- Steve B
