Santa Monica Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

When you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver, you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries, property damage, and any other losses. Our Santa Monica, CA motorcycle accident lawyer has the knowledge and experience to stand up for your rights and pursue the financial recovery you need. Even if you believe you’re partially to blame, you still may be eligible for compensation, and you deserve dedicated legal representation to advocate for the maximum settlement you can get. Reach out to our team at the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation and enlist our support.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Santa Monica, CA

Our motorcycle accident attorneys represent riders across Santa Monica and the surrounding areas who’ve been harmed by negligent drivers, unsafe roads, or defective equipment. Even when you do everything right, things can still go incredibly wrong. Responsible and experienced motorcyclists are extremely vulnerable when compared to drivers of enclosed vehicles like cars, trucks, and vans, so when there’s a collision, these accidents frequently result in severe injuries like road rash, spine injuries, brain injuries, and even amputations.

Alongside the physical pain and extensive recovery, victims often face overwhelming medical bills, lost wages from time away from work, and lasting emotional distress. Whether your crash was caused by a distracted motorist, a careless lane change, or dangerous roadway conditions, our team is here to hold the responsible party accountable. We’ll make sure each and every one of your hardships are accounted for in your claim for compensation.

Our Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyers understand the importance of straightforward legal guidance, dependable advocacy, and results that make a real difference. While we successfully settle many cases through negotiation, we still approach every claim as if it will go to trial, because we know how important it is to be fully prepared to take on insurance companies and fight for justice on your behalf, no matter what gets thrown our way.

Why Experience Matters In Motorcycle Crash Cases

Motorcyclists get a bad rap, often facing unfair stereotypes that can influence how biased insurers handle their claims. Experienced legal counsel can mean the difference between a settlement that barely covers your expenses and one that can truly sustain you throughout your recovery. At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, our seasoned attorneys are dedicated to making a positive difference in your life. Here’s what sets our firm apart from others:

• 45+ Years Of Experience. Our team has over four decades of combined experience handling serious injury cases, including countless motor vehicle accidents.
• History Of Substantial Settlements. We have secured significant settlements and verdicts for clients facing life-changing injuries, demonstrating our ability to advocate effectively for compensation.
• Quality Legal Education. Our founding attorney James V. Choulos earned his J.D. from Santa Clara University School of Law, and partner Victor Tsoi earned his J.D. from Thomas Jefferson School of Law, complementing their strong academic foundations with practical courtroom experience.
• Active Legal Leadership. Both of our lead attorneys participate in the San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association (SFTLA), with James also active in the Consumer Attorneys of California and the American Association for Justice (AAJ), reflecting their engagement in the broader legal community.
• Client-Focused Representation. Our firm is committed to hands-on, compassionate representation, listening closely to your concerns and developing strategies tailored to your family’s specific needs and circumstances.

Our personal injury firm is passionate about helping victims and their families find a measure of peace and financial security after motorcycle accidents. We have the knowledge and compassion to handle even the most severe cases with confidence. You can count on us to advocate on behalf of your health, future, and best interests.

Recovery Begins With A Call

You’re going through enough. We don’t want you to feel like you have to deal with the legal aftermath of a motorcycle crash on your own. Our skilled Santa Monica accident lawyers are here to help you pursue justice and fair compensation. Give us a call at the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm today to get started on a road toward recovery and financial stability.

Types Of Motorcycle Accident Cases We Handle

Our team understands that no two accidents are alike, and we believe that the circumstances of your case matter. Whether another driver acted recklessly, a dangerous road condition contributed to your crash, or another factor played a role, you deserve strong representation to protect your rights. Here are some different types of cases our Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyer has experience handling:

Collisions With Cars And Trucks

One of the most common motorcycle accident cases involves a collision with another vehicle. Drivers often fail to look for motorcycles or give riders the space they need on the road. These crashes may happen at intersections, when a driver makes a sudden lane change, or when traffic becomes congested. The impact of a car or truck can be devastating for a rider, and pursuing a claim may help you recover damages for medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Drunk Or Distracted Drivers

Drivers who choose to get behind the wheel while intoxicated or distracted put everyone at risk. For motorcyclists, the danger is even greater because there is little protection against the force of a crash. Cases involving impaired or distracted drivers often involve proving the other party’s negligence and holding them accountable for the harm they caused. If you were injured in this type of accident, our Santa Monica accident attorneys can guide you through your options for seeking recovery.

Dangerous Road Conditions

Not every motorcycle accident is caused by another driver. Poorly maintained roads, large potholes, uneven surfaces, or debris can quickly lead to a serious crash. Government agencies or property owners may be responsible when unsafe conditions are left unaddressed. These cases require careful attention to detail in order to identify who may be liable. Our experienced personal injury team is familiar with these situations and can help you pursue the compensation you need after such an accident.

Hit And Run Accidents

Unfortunately, some drivers flee the scene after causing a collision. For motorcyclists, this can create additional stress and uncertainty about how to move forward. Even when the at-fault driver cannot be identified, you may still have legal options through your own insurance coverage or other avenues. Our Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyers can help you understand what steps can be taken to protect your interests and help you recover.

Motorcycle Defects Or Equipment Failure

In some situations, an accident may occur because of a defective motorcycle part or a failure in safety equipment. Faulty brakes, tire blowouts, or electrical issues can all cause accidents that result in severe injuries. In these cases, manufacturers or distributors may be held responsible for releasing unsafe products into the market. These claims often involve pursuing compensation from companies rather than individual drivers.

Dooring Accidents

One of the more common dangers riders face in busy city areas is being struck by a car door that suddenly opens. When drivers or passengers fail to check for approaching motorcycles before opening their doors, the impact can cause serious injuries. These crashes often happen in congested areas where motorcycles ride close to parked cars.

Getting Run Off The Road

Motorcyclists may also be forced off the road by reckless or inattentive drivers. Even without a direct collision, swerving to avoid another vehicle can result in dangerous crashes. These situations can lead to rollovers, collisions with barriers, or serious falls, often leaving riders with significant injuries.

Wrongful Death Accidents

Some motorcycle crashes tragically result in the loss of life. When a driver’s negligence leads to a fatal accident, the surviving family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. These cases are not only about financial recovery, but also about providing grieving families with financial security, and holding the responsible party accountable for the loss of their loved one.

Get Legal Help Today

No matter how your accident happened, our team is here to protect your legal right to recovery. At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we take pride in standing up for riders and helping them secure the support they need to leave their accident behind them. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, reach out today to learn how we can help.

What To Do After A Motorcycle Crash

Being in a motorcycle crash is overwhelming, and the steps you take immediately afterward can affect both your health and your ability to recover damages. At the very beginning, it is also important to know that legal support is available. If you have questions about your rights, our Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyers can deliver the advice and advocacy you need.

Get To A Safe Location 

Your first priority is safety. If possible, move yourself and your motorcycle out of the flow of traffic. Remaining in the roadway puts you at further risk of being struck by another vehicle.

Call 911

Even if you believe the accident is minor, always contact emergency services. Police will document the scene and create a report that becomes a vital record of the crash. If you or anyone else is injured, request medical assistance right away.

Accept Medical Care

Adrenaline can mask serious injuries. Agreeing to on-site medical treatment or visiting a doctor as soon as possible helps protect your health. Having a medical record that links your injuries to the accident is also key if you pursue a claim.

Document The Scene

If you are able, take photos or videos of the accident site, vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries. This evidence can help clarify what happened and support your case later.

Exchange Information

Collect the other driver’s name, contact details, license plate number, and insurance information. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact details as well.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Do not make statements about fault or apologize at the scene, even casually. What you say can be misinterpreted and used against you later. Stick to factual information when speaking with police and others.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the crash to your insurance provider promptly. Be careful to share only accurate information without making guesses or assumptions about the cause of the accident.

Keep Records Of Everything

Save copies of the police report, medical bills, repair estimates, and any communication related to the accident. Staying organized helps keep your claim process smoother.

Speak With Your Attorney

Motorcycle accidents often lead to significant medical expenses, lost income, and long-term recovery needs. Our Santa Monica motorcycle accident attorney can review your situation, explain your options, and help you protect your rights after the crash.

Let Us Guide You Forward

Taking the right steps after a motorcycle crash can protect both your health and your financial future. At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we know how disruptive these accidents can be and we are committed to supporting riders through recovery. When you work with our California accident lawyers, you can rest easy knowing you have dedicated advocates focused on your case; that way, you can focus on healing. Contact us today to learn how we can help.

Santa Monica Motorcycle Accident Infographic

Motorcycle Accident FAQs

After a motorcycle crash, you might have a lot of questions. Whether you’re recovering from injuries or trying to figure out how to deal with the insurance company, it’s important to get clear answers. We’ve put together the following answers to common client inquiries to help you understand what to expect and when to consider taking legal action. Our goal is to give you useful information so you can make informed decisions about your next steps.

At What Speed Is A Motorcycle Crash Fatal?

Fatal injuries can happen at speeds as low as 30 to 40 miles per hour. While high-speed crashes are more likely to be deadly, lower-speed accidents can still cause serious harm, especially if you’re thrown from the bike or not wearing a helmet. Head injuries and internal damage are the most common causes of death. If someone else caused the crash, our Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyer can help you hold them accountable.

Where Do Most Motorcycle Crashes Happen?

Roughly 70% of motorcycle accidents happen at intersections. These areas are high-risk because drivers often make sudden moves or fail to yield. If you’re riding through a busy intersection, there’s a greater chance that a driver might not see you or misjudge your speed. We’ve seen many cases where the rider had the right of way but still got hit due to another driver’s poor decision.

What Is The Top Cause Of Death In Motorcycle Wrecks?

Head trauma is the leading cause of death in motorcycle accidents. Even with a helmet, the impact of a crash can result in severe brain injuries. Other common fatal injuries include spinal cord damage and chest trauma. These types of injuries often leave families facing emotional and financial challenges. When that happens, working with our wrongful death lawyer can give you the support needed to seek justice and compensation.

How Long Will It Take To Settle My Motorcycle Accident Claim?

The time it takes to settle depends on the details of your case. Some claims are resolved in a few months, while others can take a year or more, especially if you’re still receiving medical treatment. We work to resolve your case as efficiently as possible without accepting low offers. You’ll have updates along the way, and we’ll guide you through each part of the process until the case is resolved.

Do I Need To Hire A Lawyer After A Motorcycle Crash?

Yes, having legal representation can protect your rights and improve your chances of getting a fair settlement. Insurance companies may try to limit how much they pay or argue that you were at fault. We know how to challenge those claims and gather the right evidence to support your case. Our Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyer can help you recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Motorcycle Accident Glossary

When recovering from a motorcycle accident, understanding key legal terms can help you stay informed and confident as your case moves forward. From working with a legal team to dealing with insurers, knowing what certain phrases mean can make a real difference. This glossary explains five important legal terms that may come up during your case with a Santa Monica, CA motorcycle accident lawyer.

Catastrophic Injury

This term refers to severe injuries that result in long-term or permanent physical limitations. In many motorcycle crashes, the impact causes injuries that affect a person’s ability to work or carry out daily tasks. Examples include brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and amputations. These types of injuries often require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and assistance with everyday activities. In legal claims, this term signals that the impact of the crash goes far beyond the initial treatment and affects nearly every part of life.

Vocational Assessment

A vocational assessment is a review of how an injury affects someone’s ability to perform work. After a motorcycle accident, we may bring in a professional trained in job analysis to evaluate how the injuries limit current or future employment. They consider physical ability, education, training, and the current job market. The findings from this kind of assessment help support a claim for lost future income when a rider can no longer return to the same line of work or maintain full-time employment.

Collision Analysis

Collision analysis refers to a technical investigation into how a crash occurred. It includes reviewing physical details such as road markings, damage to vehicles, photographs, and available video. For motorcycle accidents, this type of analysis helps clarify what happened, especially when the cause is disputed or unclear. A clear breakdown of the collision timeline can support the injured rider’s account and show the court how events unfolded.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting is the act of riding a motorcycle between lanes of slower or stopped traffic. It’s legal in California but often misunderstood by other drivers. After a crash, the other party may try to argue that this behavior caused the collision. However, if done safely and within the guidelines, lane splitting should not weaken a rider’s claim. When we handle these cases, we look at traffic patterns, vehicle spacing, and road conditions to show whether the action was performed responsibly.

Police Report

A police report is an official record created by officers who respond to the scene of an accident. It includes key facts like the time and location of the crash, information from drivers and witnesses, weather and road conditions, and an officer’s observations. While not always the final word in a legal case, this document is a central part of most injury claims. It can help confirm details about how the crash happened and supports your timeline when dealing with insurers or presenting your case in court.

When you’re recovering from a serious motorcycle crash, having clear answers and strong legal support matters. At Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we help riders make informed decisions and stand by them every step of the way.

If you need legal help after a crash, we’re ready to review your case. Call now to speak with a Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyer and learn how we can support your next steps.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be dealing with significant pain, disruption to your life, and an uncertain financial future. At this stage, having someone on your side who understands both the law and what you’re going through is key. That’s why the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm provides thorough, honest legal guidance to help you move forward with confidence.

Let’s talk about what happened and how we can help. Call today to schedule a free consultation with a Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyer.

Help When You Need It Most

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, we’re ready to help you take the next step. At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we’ll stand by your side and fight for the outcome you deserve. One of our attorneys is an avid motorcyclist himself, so you can count on us to deliver the compassionate advocacy you deserve.  Reach out to our Santa Monica motorcycle accident lawyer today to get comprehensive legal support and guidance.