Q: Is lane splitting legal in California, and can I recover damages if I was injured while doing it?
Yes and yes. California Vehicle Code § 21658.1 makes California the only state to expressly authorize lane splitting, but legality alone does not determine your right to compensation. What matters is whether you were lane splitting in a safe and reasonable manner and whether the other driver’s conduct — a sudden unsignaled lane change, an abrupt swerve, or an opening door — caused the collision. If the other driver bears primary responsibility, you can recover proportional damages under California’s comparative fault doctrine even if lane splitting was a contributing circumstance.
Q: What types of damages can I recover after a serious motorcycle accident in California?
California allows injured motorcyclists to recover both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover all measurable financial losses: emergency medical care, hospitalization, surgery, ongoing rehabilitation, future medical expenses, lost wages, reduced future earning capacity, and motorcycle repair or replacement. Non-economic damages compensate for pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and the impact of permanent disability or disfigurement. California does not cap non-economic damages in personal injury cases. Where the defendant’s conduct was especially reckless — such as a DUI driver — the court may also award punitive damages under California Civil Code § 3294.
Q: How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident attorney at Compass Law Group, LLP?
Nothing upfront. Compass Law Group, LLP handles all motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis — you pay zero attorney’s fees unless and until we recover compensation for you. Your initial consultation is completely free and carries no obligation. The firm advances all investigation and litigation costs during the case. This means every injured rider — regardless of their financial situation — has access to the same experienced legal team that has recovered more than $250 million for California injury victims. Call (213) 320-1001 or (800) 602-4010 to schedule your free case evaluation today.
