Lane-Splitting Motorcycle Accidents in Irvine, Orange County, and California

Experienced Attorneys Advocating for Lane-Splitting Accident Victims in California

California is the only state in the U.S. where lane-splitting (riding between lanes of traffic) is explicitly legal. While lane-splitting helps motorcyclists navigate congested traffic efficiently, it also comes with risks. Misjudgments by both motorcyclists and drivers often lead to serious accidents. At Alipour Law Group, APC, we have extensive experience helping victims of lane-splitting motorcycle accidents recover compensation and hold negligent parties accountable.

If you’ve been injured in a lane-splitting accident, our skilled attorneys can guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Understanding California’s Lane-Splitting Laws

Under California Vehicle Code Section 21658.1, lane-splitting is legal as long as it is done safely. Key aspects of the law include:

• Reasonable Speed: Motorcyclists should not exceed speeds more than 10-15 mph faster than surrounding traffic.
• Traffic Conditions: Lane-splitting is safest during slow-moving or stopped traffic.
• Avoiding Blind Spots: Motorcyclists should stay visible to drivers, especially near large vehicles.

Common Causes of Lane-Splitting Motorcycle Accidents in California

Lane-splitting accidents often occur due to negligence by drivers, motorcyclists, or both. Common causes include:

• Driver Negligence:
  • Changing lanes without checking mirrors or blind spots.
  • Opening car doors into a motorcyclist’s path (dooring incidents).
• Speeding Motorcyclists: Traveling too fast for road or traffic conditions.
• Sudden Lane Changes: Drivers abruptly switch lanes without signaling.
• Congested Traffic: Tight spaces make lane-splitting more dangerous.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers on phones or engaging in other distractions are less likely to notice lane-splitting motorcyclists.

Common Injuries in Lane-Splitting Motorcycle Accidents in California

Motorcycle accidents, especially those involving lane-splitting, often lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. These injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with helmets, head injuries can be severe.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Potentially leading to paralysis or long-term disabilities.
• Fractures and Broken Bones: Common in arms, legs, and ribs.
• Road Rash and Severe Lacerations: Painful abrasions from sliding on asphalt.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to organs caused by high-impact collisions.

Determining Liability in Lane-Splitting Accidents in California

Liability in lane-splitting accidents often depends on the actions of both the motorcyclist and the driver. Courts consider factors such as:

• Traffic Conditions: Was the motorcyclist lane-splitting in heavy or fast-moving traffic?
• Driver Actions: Did the driver check mirrors and blind spots before switching lanes?
• Speed: Was the motorcyclist traveling at a safe and reasonable speed?

Even if you share some responsibility for the motorcycle accident, California’s comparative negligence laws allow you to recover damages, reduced by your percentage of fault.

How Alipour Law Group, APC Can Help

At Alipour Law Group, APC, we have years of experience handling motorcycle accident cases, including those involving lane-splitting. Here’s how we can assist you:

• Case Evaluation:
  • Provide a free consultation to assess the details of your accident.
• Thorough Investigation:
  • Gather evidence, including traffic camera footage, accident reports, and witness statements.
  • Work with accident reconstruction experts to determine fault.
• Negotiation and Litigation:
  • Negotiate with insurance companies to secure maximum compensation.
  • Take your case to court if a fair settlement cannot be reached.
• Maximizing Compensation:
  • Pursue damages for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.

Steps to Take After a Lane-Splitting Motorcycle Accident in California

If you’ve been injured in a lane-splitting accident, taking these steps can protect your legal rights:

• Seek Medical Attention: Get evaluated immediately, even if injuries seem minor.
• Call the Police: File a police report to document the accident.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident site, your injuries, and any vehicles involved.
• Collect Information: Obtain contact details from the other driver and any witnesses.
• Contact an Attorney: Speak with a lawyer to ensure your rights are protected and your claim is handled properly.

Why Choose Alipour Law Group, APC?

• Years of Experience: Successfully handling lane-splitting motorcycle accident cases.
• Personalized Representation: Every case is given individualized care and attention.
• No Fees Unless We Win: You only pay if we recover compensation for you.
• Bilingual Support: Fluent in Farsi and English, serving the Persian and Iranian communities.

Contact Alipour Law Group, APC Today

If you’ve been injured in a lane-splitting motorcycle accident in Irvine, Orange County, or anywhere in California, don’t wait to seek legal help. At Alipour Law Group, APC, we are committed to protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve.

Call us now at (949) 997-9999. Visit us at our Irvine Office, 19800 MacArthur Blvd., Suite 300, Irvine, CA 92612.

Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery.

We Also Handle the Following Types of Motorcycle Accidents:

• Hit-and-Run
• Intersection Motorcycle
• Settlements
• Motorcycle Accidents at Night
• Distracted Drivers
• Speeding Drivers
• Involving Commercial Trucks
• Involving Drunk Drivers
• Left-Turning Vehicles
• Pedestrians
• Highways and Freeways
• Passenger Injuries
• Rear-End Motorcycle Collisions
• Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist

Frequently Asked Questions: Motorcycle Accidents at Lane-Splitting