Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Are You a Victim of a Motorcycle Accident in Bakersfield?

Bakersfield is no stranger to motorcycle accidents, with various factors like speeding contributing to it and resulting in fatal injuries. Last December 18, 2024, a motorcyclist was inflicted with major injuries after crashing into another car south of Bakersfield. Later that same month, a motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene after crashing towards a wall due to a collision with a sedan on Berkshire Road. There was also an incident in January 2025 wherein a rider on a 2021 Harley Davidson suffered from injuries after crashing into a horse at the Houghton Road and Ashe Road intersection.

Motorcyclists often face higher risks when it comes to road accidents, in contrast to what other vehicle riders face. There’s less stability when it comes to riding a motorcycle. It also only provides minimal protection, making it more vulnerable to other vehicles on the road.

Bakersfield Motorcycles

If you or a loved one is a victim of a motorcycle accident, call our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers here at Thompson Law for a FREE CONSULTATION. It’s important to have the right guidance in order for you to secure the compensation that you truly deserve.

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What Compensation Can Motorcycle Accident Victims Recover in Bakersfield?

Motorcycle accident victims in Bakersfield can get financial compensation, such as:

Economic Damages

These cover financial losses caused by the accident, including:

  • Medical expenses:  Such as costs for hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and medications.
  • Lost wages:  Compensation for missed workdays and reduced earning potential due to long-term injuries.
  • Property damage:  Can include repairs or replacement for a damaged or totaled motorcycle and other personal belongings.
  • Other miscellaneous expenses:  Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, and in-home care if needed.

Non-Economic Damages

These account for the emotional and physical effects of the accident, including:

  • Pain and suffering:  Compensation for chronic pain, ongoing discomfort, and lasting physical trauma.
  • Loss of enjoyment of life:  For when injuries prevent victims from doing activities they once loved.
  • Emotional distress:  Anxiety, PTSD, and depression resulting from the accident.

Punitive Damages

If the accident was caused by reckless or intentional misconduct, such as drunk driving or severe traffic violations, the court may award punitive damages to punish the ones at fault and prevent similar behavior in the future.

Get the Compensation You Deserve with Thompson Law

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Bakersfield motorcycle accident, you do not have to face this alone. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers can fight for the compensation you need to recover. We handle every step, from investigating the crash and negotiating with insurance companies to taking your case to court if necessary.

Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION. We are ready to fight for you.

Call Our Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today!

Here at Thompson Law, we know how to aggressively secure a monetary settlement to ensure you’re given the medical treatment that you need and that you are well compensated for any financial or personal impact you got from the accident. We can assure you that our motorcycle accident lawyers in Bakersfield will help you recover the compensation you deserve—from medical expenses, lost income, and other miscellaneous costs.

Bakersfield follows California’s statute of limitations, which means your time is constricted. Call our Bakersfield motorcycle accident attorneys now at Thompson Law to ensure that you file a personal injury claim on time.

Reach out to us for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

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(844) 308-8180

Why Choose Thompson Law?

As one of the best personal injury law firms in the area, Thompson Law has a team of experienced and dedicated personal injury attorneys who are ready to fight for your legal rights.

At Thompson Law, we understand the emotional distress that comes with serious injuries, and we are committed to providing you with the best legal representation possible. Our trial lawyers are not afraid to take your case to court if necessary and have successfully secured billions of dollars in compensatory and punitive damages for our clients.

We have extensive experience working with insurance companies, large corporations, and medical professionals, and we know how to get you the results you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you will not have to pay anything until we win your case.

Don’t let a personal injury case ruin your life. Contact Thompson Law‘s Bakersfield personal injury lawyers today and schedule a FREE CONSULTATION to discuss your legal options. Our team of dedicated injury attorneys will provide you with the legal advice and representation you need to get the compensation you deserve.

Bakersfield Motorcycle Helmet Laws

Bakersfield follows California’s universal helmet law, which requires all riders as well as passengers to wear a DOT-approved helmet when they are on public roads.

This law applies to motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, and motorized bicycles.

To meet California Vehicle Code Section 27803, helmets must be DOT-compliant and include:

  • Thick inner liner:  With at least one inch of foam padding for impact protection.
  • Secure chin strap:  A sturdy strap with strong rivets to keep the helmet in place.
  • DOT certification:  A sticker confirming the helmet meets federal safety standards.

Riding without a helmet in Bakersfield can lead to:

  • Fines:  Starting at $10 but can go up to $250 based on the situation.
  • Points on your driving record, which may increase insurance costs.
  • Liability issues in an accident, as insurance companies may argue that helmet use could have reduced injuries.

Remember, wearing a helmet strengthens your injury claim. If you weren’t wearing a helmet and suffered a head injury, insurers may try to reduce your compensation under Bakersfield, California’s comparative negligence laws.

However, helmet use does not affect claims for injuries unrelated to the head, such as broken bones, spinal injuries, or internal damage. If you need some clarity with these technicalities, contact our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers for a FREE CONSULTATION here at Thompson Law. We’ll fight with you towards the compensation that you rightfully deserve.

Dangerous Intersections for Motorcycle Accidents in Bakersfield

There are certain intersections in Bakersfield that are more prone to accidents because of traffic volume.

Here are some of the most dangerous:

  • Ming Avenue & New Stine Road
  • Brundage Lane & P Street
  • H Street & Wilson Road
  • 4th Street & Union Avenue
  • H Street & Ming Avenue
  • H Street & Planz Road
  • Baker Street & Niles Street
  • Gosford Road & Ming Avenue
  • Real Road & Wilson Road
  • 34th Street & Q Street

If you have ever been in a motorcycle accident at any of these intersections, we will help you file a claim. Contact Thompson Law for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Common Injuries in Bakersfield Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries since riders lack the protection of a car. Without seat belts, airbags, or a reinforced frame, even minor crashes can lead to life-changing injuries. Some of the most common injuries in Bakersfield motorcycle accidents include:

  • Brain injuries:  Concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can cause long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
  • Spinal cord injuries:  Damage to the spine may lead to partial or complete paralysis.
  • Fractured bones:  Broken arms, legs, ribs, and collarbones are frequent in high-impact crashes.
  • Internal injuries:  Organ damage and internal bleeding require immediate medical attention.
  • Amputations:  Severe crashes can lead to the loss of a limb, permanently changing a rider’s life.
  • Facial injuries:  Broken jaws, dental damage, and facial fractures can occur, especially in riders without full-face helmets.
  • Severe lacerations:  Deep cuts can cause infection, excessive bleeding, and long-term scarring.
  • Joint injuries:  Dislocated shoulders, torn ligaments, and knee injuries may require surgery and long rehabilitation.
  • Neck and back injuries Whiplash and herniated discs can cause chronic pain and mobility issues.
  • Road burn:  Sliding on asphalt can result in painful skin abrasions that may lead to infection and permanent scarring.
  • Chronic pain:  Nerve damage and soft tissue injuries can cause long-term discomfort.
  • Disfigurement:  Severe crashes may leave riders with scarring or permanent physical changes.
  • Loss of life:  Sadly, motorcycle crashes are more likely to result in fatalities than car accidents.

At Thompson Law

We provide injury accident victims with dedicated and tenacious legal representation, ensuring you get fair value for your claim. Our Bakersfield personal injury lawyers will build a strong case with supporting evidence for injured victims so that you recover the money that you deserve.

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Get Legal Help After a Motorcycle Accident

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Bakersfield motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, long-term care, and emotional suffering.

Our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers have extensive experience handling these cases. We know California motorcycle laws inside and out, from helmet regulations to traffic violations and liability rules. We will fight to protect your rights and seek the maximum compensation available.

Don’t wait to take action. Contact our Bakersfield motorcycle accident attorneys today for a FREE CASE REVIEW and start your path toward justice.

Does Not Wearing a Helmet Impact a Motorcycle Accident Injury Claim?

A statistical analysis has shown that over 50% of riders involved in accidents were not wearing helmets.

At Bakersfield, riders who are 21 and older are exempt from having to wear a helmet as long as they have completed a training course and also carry medical insurance.

However, not wearing a helmet can impact the outcome of your compensation, especially if you sustained a head injury. But for injuries that don’t have anything to do with the head, the usage of helmet typically does not affect the outcome.

If you were involved in a motorcycle accident because of someone else’s carelessness (whether or not you were wearing a helmet), don’t hesitate to contact Thompson Law. Our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers will give you a FREE CASE REVIEW.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Bakersfield

A motorcycle accident can leave you injured and overwhelmed. Taking the right steps after a crash can help protect your health, gather evidence, and strengthen your claim for compensation:

  • Call 911 immediately:  Request medical assistance and report the accident to the police.
  • Get medical care:  If needed, an ambulance will transport you to a hospital for treatment.
  • Document the accident:  If you are able, take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
  • Exchange information:  Get the driver’s name, contact details, and license plate number.
  • Speak with witnesses:  If bystanders saw the crash, ask for their contact information.
  • Avoid discussing fault:  Do not admit blame or make statements that could be used against you.
  • Notify a lawyer:  If you are injured or unable to gather evidence, contact our Bakersfield motorcycle accident attorneys immediately.
  • Let your lawyer handle insurance:  If an adjuster calls, refer them to your attorney instead of giving a statement.

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers will investigate your case and fight for the best possible outcome.

Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Bakersfield Motorcycle Accident FAQs

What if my motorcycle accident claim is denied?

Insurance companies often deny claims to reduce payouts, but a denial doesn’t mean your case is over. First, review the denial letter to understand why your claim was rejected. Then, gather supporting evidence like medical records, police reports, and accident photos. If your claim was unfairly denied, our Bakersfield motorcycle accident lawyers can appeal the decision, negotiate with the insurer, and take legal action if needed.

How do I prove fault in a motorcycle accident?

To prove another party was responsible for your crash, you need strong evidence, such as:

  • Police reports documenting the accident.
  • Eyewitness statements from people who saw the crash.
  • Photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and injuries.
  • Traffic camera or dashcam footage (if available).

Accident reconstruction experts may also be used to analyze the scene and show how the crash happened. If the at-fault driver violated traffic laws or acted negligently, this strengthens your claim.

Can motorcycle modifications affect my claim?

Yes, modifications can impact your case. While safety upgrades are generally not a problem, performance modifications like removing mirrors, altering brakes, or tampering with exhaust systems could be used against you. Insurance companies might argue that these changes contributed to the crash or made injuries worse. Always ensure your modifications follow California motorcycle laws and keep records of any changes.

Why are expert witnesses important in motorcycle accident cases?

Expert witnesses provide professional insight that can strengthen your claim. Some key experts include:

  • Accident reconstruction specialists who analyze the scene and determine fault.
  • Medical professionals who explain the severity of your injuries and how they impact your life.
  • Mechanical engineers who assess potential motorcycle defects or malfunctions that may have caused the crash.

These experts help build a strong case, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve.

Can a motorcycle passenger file a claim for injuries?

Yes, passengers injured in a motorcycle crash can seek compensation just like riders. If another driver was at fault, you can file a claim against them. If the motorcycle operator was responsible, you may be able to recover damages through their insurance. Compensation may include medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Even if the rider shares some blame, Bakersfield’s comparative negligence laws allow you to recover damages based on the percentage of fault. Our motorcycle accident attorneys can help you navigate the process and fight for fair compensation.

Thompson Law Guarantee

Thompson Law charges NO FEE unless we obtain a settlement for your case. We’ve put over $1.9 billion in cash settlements in our clients’ pockets. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your accident, get your questions answered, and understand your legal options.

State law limits the time you have to file a claim after an injury accident, so call today.