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In California, fault in a motorcycle accident is determined by the same negligence principles that apply to all vehicle accidents — but motorcyclists face unique legal challenges including jury bias, disputes over lane splitting, and insurance companies who use helmet use or riding behavior to minimize claims. Under California Civil Code §1714, every person owes a duty of care to others on the road. When that duty is breached and causes injury, the at-fault party is liable. California Vehicle Code §21658.1 makes lane splitting legal, which means motorcyclists who were lane splitting cannot automatically be blamed for accidents that occur while doing so legally. Under CCP §335.1 you have 2 years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. Call Sky Law Group at (844) 475-9529 for a free consultation. Hablamos Español. Who Can Be at Fault in a California Motorcycle Accident? Motorcycle accidents frequently involve multiple parties who share responsibility. Understanding who can be held liable is critical to maximizing your recovery. The Other Driver The most common cause of motorcycle accidents is a negligent car or truck driver. The most dangerous scenario is the left-turn accident — a driver turning left across traffic who fails to see an oncoming motorcycle. Studies show this accounts for nearly 42% of all fatal motorcycle accidents. Other driver negligence includes: failing to check blind spots before lane changes, running red lights and stop signs, distracted driving (texting), driving under the influence, and following too closely causing rear-end collisions. The Motorcyclist […]