![]() When a car occupant carelessly opens a door in front of a moving motorcycle, a crash may be inevitable.Any of these scenarios could lead to a read-end collision or sideswiping. Or they may try to overtake a motorcycle itself without leaving enough space. Sometimes, a driver may try to overtake a vehicle without seeing the motorcycle up ahead.Again, motorcyclists are often invisible to a driver, even from only feet away. When a car driver crosses the left lane, they may not immediately see any oncoming motorcycle on that lane. A car trying to make a left turn is particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. This becomes riskier around motorcycles, which are harder to see than most vehicles on the road. When a driver is texting, eating, or in any way distracted at the wheel, they are slower to react around other vehicles. These are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. In any motorcycle crash, multiple factors could be in play and any party (or parties) could be held liable. Show the same respect to motorcyclists as you would any other motorist.Opening a car door in unsafe conditions is actually illegal under California Vehicle Code 22517. Many motorcycle crashes result from “dooring” – colliding into a car door that is haphazardly opened onto the road. Clear the surroundings before opening a car door, and don’t leave the door open longer than necessary.Just because this vehicle is smaller does not mean a car could just squeeze into their lane. Ensure ample space when passing a motorcycle.Motorcycles don’t seem to register to motorists, it is as if a car or truck driver’s awareness only locks on to the shape of common vehicles. ![]() Stay in the proper lane, or practice extra caution when trying to merge, cross, or change lanes.These are some rules of the road that drivers must observe but often neglect around motorcyclists: While bike riders have an unfavorable reputation among motorists, many motorcycle accidents are actually caused by car drivers who act negligently or fail to respect motorcyclist rights. Responsibilities of Drivers Around Motorcyclists In 2016, California became the only state to officially legalize lane-splitting. Lane-splitting is the practice of riding between lanes when traffic is stopped or slow. Each helmet must comply with the standards of the US Department of Transportation. Under California Vehicle Code 27803, all motorcycle riders are required to wear their helmets. $30,000 for bodily injuries to multiple persons.$15,000 for bodily injury to one person.Applicants under 21 must also pass the California Motorcyclist Training Program.Įvery motorcyclist in California must carry a minimum liability insurance of: License application requirements include passing a vision exam, knowledge test, and skills test. Riders younger than 21 may apply for a license, but only if they’ve had their permit for at least six months. California Motorcycle LawsĬalifornia motorcyclists must have a learner’s permit before they can apply for a motorcycle license. We have successfully obtained favorable settlements for individuals who were injured and families who have lost their loved ones in negligent accidents. In Southern California, call us at Barrios & Machado. If you or a loved one has been seriously hurt in a motorcycle accident, it is crucial to have a lawyer on your side. The fact is motorists don’t see motorcycles. Many motorcycle accident victims find that this is an obstacle to claiming their fair compensation, as at-fault drivers and insurance companies usually assert that the crash was largely the bike rider’s fault. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are often blamed for crashes, even when they ride with the utmost safety. This is especially significant in California, one of the 15 states with the most motorcyclist fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that 80 percent of motorcycle crashes result in injury or death, while only 20 percent of car collisions do. Motorcycle accidents are inherently dangerous to the rider.
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