3 California Motorcycle Laws You Should Know
Even when wearing the proper safety gear and abiding by the law, motorcyclists are highly vulnerable on the road due to their size and proximity to large vehicles. In 2022, California Highway Patrol’s SWITRS data reported 596 motorcycle fatalities.
While you may be unable to prevent an accident involving a negligent individual, understanding California motorcycle regulations will protect you and inform you when someone else is acting unlawfully. If another individual performs reckless and illegal actions on the road and causes an accident, you are eligible to recover compensation for damages incurred in the crash.
3 California Motorcycle Laws You Should Know
The United States provides every state with the authority to enact its own motorcycle laws to protect the state’s residents. As a California motorcycle rider, it’s essential to understand these regulations for your safety and the safety of others. Consider some fundamental laws all motorcyclists should know:
Lane Splitting Is Legal in California
Under California Vehicle Code 21658.1, motorcyclists are permitted to engage in “lane splitting,” or the sharing of a lane with a stopped or slowly progressing vehicle. If a car intentionally blocks or impedes a motorcyclist in a way that could harm the rider, they are acting unlawfully and may be held liable for any accident damages.
Motorcyclists Must Wear a DOT-Approved Helmet
In California, all motorcycle operators and passengers must wear a DOT-approved helmet. Motorcycle riders may wear a half-shell, three-quarter, or full-face helmet as long as it is DOT-approved. You may also decorate your helmet with stickers or other adornments, as long as the additions do not alter the safety features.
Motorcyclists Must Have a Specific License
The State of California’s Department of Motor Vehicles outlines specific licensing requirements for residents. If a rider is under the age of 21, they must have a motorcycle license permit for at least six months before they can apply for a motorcycle license. All license holders must pass a motorcycle knowledge test, a vision test, and a motorcycle skills test or obtain a Certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training.
A comprehensive understanding of California’s motorcycle regulations will allow you to recognize when a driver acts negligently. For example, suppose you are legally splitting a lane, and another driver blocks your path, which results in an accident. In that case, you have the ability to hold them responsible for your physical, emotional, and financial damages.
When to Speak With a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents often result in injuries and property damage due to the size and vulnerability of the vehicle and operator. After an accident occurs, you will want someone with extensive knowledge of California motorcycle and traffic laws as well as someone devoted to providing highly qualified representation. Our NK Law Group lawyers understand what it takes to recover the justice and compensation you deserve and will provide you with the following services:
- Answering questions relating to your motorcycle accident claim
- Conducting a thorough investigation into your accident
- Analyzing information and legal documents
- Communicating with insurance companies
- Negotiating potential settlement offers
- Providing client-tailored legal representation
- Reviewing any potential legal issues within your claim
- Establishing the other party’s negligence and connection to your accident
Our team takes a client-centered approach and offers personalized legal representation. We ensure clients feel comfortable communicating their concerns and questions and will take the time to carefully investigate and analyze your situation.
Contact NK Law Group for Experienced Motorcycle Accident Representation Today
Our NK Law Group lawyers understand the challenges you face after a motorcycle accident and are committed to recovering the best possible outcome for your claim. We conduct thorough investigations into your accident, gathering vital evidence to establish the other party’s negligence.
Attorney Naseer, a member of the State Bar of California, Consumer Attorneys of California, Alameda Contra Costa Trial Lawyers Association, and the American Association for Justice, brings years of experience in representing clients in California and has recovered millions in compensation for clients. Take the first step in your motorcycle accident claim today by contacting us at (510) 519-9497 or completing our contact form.
EXPERTLY REVIEWED BY
Naseer Khan, Esq.
September 5 2023
Top-rated personal injury attorney Naseer Khan, Esq. has over a decade of experience advocating for injury victims in California. As an award-winning attorney and a member of the American Association for Justice, Khan has a stellar track record of success and devotion to justice for his clients.