San Francisco Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in San Francisco?

Motorcycle accidents remain a serious safety issue in San Francisco, with urban roads being the most common locations for crashes. Speeding is a major factor in many fatal and serious injury accidents, along with improper turns and right-of-way violations. These incidents highlight the need for all road users to stay aware and follow traffic laws.

While motorcycles make up a small percentage of registered vehicles, riders face a much higher risk of severe injury or death compared to other drivers. Helmet use has been proven to reduce fatalities, yet nationally, helmet use declined in 2021.

In San Francisco, motorcyclists continue to be among the most vulnerable on the road. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, seeking legal help is important to secure fair compensation and hold the responsible party accountable.

Contact our San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyers today for a FREE CONSULTATION. We are ready to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

San Francisco Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

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Call Our San Francisco Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today!

We provide strong and determined legal representation for motorcycle accident victims in San Francisco. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.

Our San Francisco personal injury lawyers help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses caused by the accident. We are here to guide you through the process and fight for the financial relief you deserve.

Call our motorcycle accident lawyers in San Francisco today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Understanding San Francisco Motorcycle Helmet Laws

San Francisco follows some of the strictest motorcycle helmet laws in the country, aimed at reducing serious injuries and fatalities in motorcycle crashes.

Helmet Laws in San Francisco

According to California Vehicle Code Section 27803, all motorcycle riders and passengers must wear a helmet, no matter their age or experience level. This law applies to motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, and motorized bicycles on public roads.

Helmet Requirements

Helmets must meet U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards, which are designed to provide the best protection in a crash. A DOT-compliant helmet should have:

  • A thick inner liner (at least 1 inch of foam padding)
  • A sturdy chin strap with solid rivets
  • A DOT sticker showing it meets federal safety standards

Penalties for Not Wearing a Helmet

Failing to wear a helmet in San Francisco can lead to:

  • A traffic ticket, with fines ranging from $10 to $250 or more
  • Points on your driving record, which can raise insurance costs
  • Increased liability in an accident, making it harder to recover damages for head injuries

How Helmet Use Affects Your Injury Claim

Wearing a helmet can strengthen your motorcycle accident claim. If you were not wearing a helmet and suffered a head injury, insurance companies may argue that you contributed to the severity of your injuries. This could reduce the compensation you receive under California’s comparative negligence laws.

However, if your injuries were not related to your head—such as broken bones or spinal damage—your lack of helmet use may not affect your claim. An experienced San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer can help navigate these legal issues and fight for the compensation you deserve.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION. Let us help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you need.

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(844) 308-8180

Why Choose Thompson Law As Your Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

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 San Francisco 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.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in California

  • Speeding and reckless driving continue to be leading factors in serious motorcycle crashes.
  • Unsafe lane changes and left turns by other vehicles put motorcyclists at high risk.
  • Intersections remain high-risk zones, with locations like JFK Drive, Van Ness Avenue, and Market Street being among the most dangerous for motorcyclists.

Call Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Thompson Law provides injury accident victims with dedicated and tenacious legal representation, ensuring you get fair value for your claim. Our San Francisco 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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How to Stay Safe on San Francisco Roads

  • Always wear a DOT-approved helmet to reduce the risk of severe injuries.
  • Be extra cautious at intersections, where most motorcycle crashes occur.
  • Maintain a safe speed and be aware of sudden lane changes from larger vehicles.
  • Avoid riding in drivers’ blind spots, as motorcycles are harder to see.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in San Francisco, legal guidance can help you recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Contact us today for a FREE CASE REVIEW.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in San Francisco

Motorcycle accidents often cause severe injuries because riders lack the protective structure that cars provide. Without seat belts, airbags, or a reinforced frame, motorcyclists are much more vulnerable in a crash. Some of the most common injuries seen in San Francisco motorcycle accidents include:

 

  • Amputations
  • Paralysis
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Brain injury
  • Internal bleeding
  • Organ damage
  • Fractured bones
  • Facial injuries
  • Chronic pain
  • Road burn
  • Back injuries
  • Neck injuries
  • Severe lacerations
  • Scarring
  • Joint injuries
  • Disfigurement
  • Loss of limbs
  • Concussions
  • Sometimes even death

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in San Francisco

Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries and financial stress. Taking the right steps after a crash can help protect your health, gather important evidence, and strengthen your claim for compensation.

Here’s what to do after a motorcycle accident in San Francisco:

  • Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical help.
  • Get medical attention as soon as possible. An ambulance may take you to the nearest hospital for treatment.
  • Take photos and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, your injuries, and road conditions if you can.
  • Write down the license plate number and collect the other driver’s contact and insurance details.
  • If you are too injured to gather evidence, focus on getting medical help. Our motorcycle accident lawyers can handle the rest.
  • Do not speak to insurance adjusters or provide a statement. Instead, refer them to your lawyer.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with anyone other than your attorney. Insurance companies may use your words against you.

Let an experienced motorcycle accident attorney handle your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

How Not Wearing a Helmet Can Affect a Motorcycle Accident Claim in San Francisco

Statistics show that more than half of motorcyclists who suffer fatal injuries in crashes were not wearing helmets. In San Francisco, all motorcycle riders and passengers are required by law to wear a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) standards.

If you suffer a head injury in a motorcycle crash, not wearing a helmet could reduce the compensation you receive. Insurance companies and opposing parties may argue that your injuries were more severe because you did not follow the law. This could lead to a lower settlement or verdict.

For injuries that do not involve the head, helmet use usually does not affect the outcome of your case. If another driver caused your accident, you may still be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.

No matter the circumstances, if you were injured in a motorcycle accident in San Francisco, contact our attorneys today for a FREE CONSULTATION.

FAQs About Motorcycle Accidents in San Francisco

How can I prove who was at fault in a motorcycle accident?

Proving fault in a motorcycle accident requires strong evidence. Key proof includes:

  • Police reports describing the crash.
  • Eyewitness statements.
  • Photos and videos showing the accident scene, injuries, and vehicle damage.
  • Traffic camera or dashcam footage (if available).

In some cases, accident reconstruction experts may be needed to analyze how the crash happened. If the other driver was speeding, distracted, or violating traffic laws, this can help establish their liability.

What should I do if the insurance company denies my motorcycle accident claim?

Insurance companies often deny claims to minimize payouts. If this happens, don’t give up. First, review the denial letter to understand the reason. Then, gather key evidence, including medical records, police reports, and photos of the crash scene.

Next, contact a motorcycle accident attorney. A lawyer can appeal the denial, negotiate with the insurance company, and take legal action if needed. We fight to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.

Can motorcycle modifications affect my accident claim?

Yes, modifications can impact your case. Changes that improve safety, like upgraded brakes or lighting, are unlikely to be an issue. However, performance modifications, such as removing mirrors, altering the exhaust system, or tampering with brakes, might be used against you. Insurance companies may argue that certain changes made the crash worse. Always document your modifications and make sure they follow California’s motorcycle laws.

Why are expert witnesses important in a motorcycle accident case?

Expert witnesses can provide valuable insight and strengthen your claim. Some key experts include:

  • Accident reconstruction specialists who analyze crash details to determine fault.
  • Medical experts who explain the severity of your injuries and long-term effects.
  • Motorcycle mechanics or engineers who assess if a defect or malfunction contributed to the crash.

These experts provide objective testimony that can help prove liability and secure fair compensation.

What rights do passengers have in a motorcycle accident?

Passengers injured in motorcycle crashes have the right to seek compensation, just like riders. You can file a claim against the at-fault party, whether it’s the motorcycle operator or another driver. Compensation may cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Even if the motorcycle rider is partially at fault, you may still be able to recover damages under California’s comparative negligence laws. A lawyer can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.

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.