Is Lane Splitting Legal in Marin County, CA?
Lane splitting is legal in Marin County, California, as it falls under statewide regulations permitting the practice. California is the only state in the U.S. where lane splitting is explicitly allowed, and motorcyclists in Marin County can legally ride between lanes of traffic under specific conditions.
Riders must use their judgment when deciding to lane split and prioritize safety as much as possible. California law emphasizes that the practice should occur at relatively low speeds and only when traffic moves slowly. Motorcyclists must also avoid splitting lanes at speeds significantly faster than surrounding vehicles to reduce potential hazards.
Don’t settle for less. Fight for full compensation.
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$2,000,000 Truck Accident
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$1,850,000 Pedestrian Accident
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$1,800,000 Motorcycle Accident
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$1,750,000 Motor Vehicle Accident
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$1,495,000 Premises Liability
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$1,410,000 Premises Liability
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$1,300,000 Pedestrian Accident
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$1,000,000 Rollover Accident
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I would highly recommend Kuvara Law Firm to anyone who has been in an accident. Colby Kuvara was an excellent attorney who went above and beyond in guiding me through the legal process and really advocating for me in a time that was extremely stressful. Her team was very responsive and thorough through the duration of the case.
- Jessica B. -
"They were kind, understanding, and extremely helpful in every conversation."
Beyond grateful with the service and support the professionals at Kuvara Law Firm offered me every step of the way in this process. I know being in a situation of need and not knowing where to begin is overwhelming and quite frankly a bit scary.
- Esmeralda M. -
"Colby was professional, caring and listened carefully to what our son's desired outcomes were."
Our adult son was hit by a car while on vacation in San Rafael CA. We recieved the call the night before Thanksgiving 2022. We flew from MPLS to San Fransisco and got to the hospital where our son was. He was injured badly, after emergency brain surgery he was placed in a medically induced coma he woke up after three day's. We decided as a family to contact an attorney. We contacted Kuvara Law firm and talked with Colby. Colby assured us that the only interest she had was the well being of our son. She went above and beyond to navigate out of state insurance and an entire host of other issues. Our entire family would recomend Kuvara Law firm to anyone looking for representation.
- Mike P. -
"They held my hand thru the whole thing, answering my silly calls with questions and showing great patience."
I found the Kuvara Law Firm when I did a search for personal injury attorneys. I scanned down the possibilities but their name jumped out at me. I called, sure I didn't have a claim because I've never done this before, but on reviewing my case Mr. Kuvara said I DO have a case and assigned me to the appropriate person to get things started. They were always very friendly and encouraging whenever I contacted them. Colby is an absolute doll! Then when I had my fall and concussion Mr. Kovara referred me to a colleague at another firm that specializes in that type of case. They, too, were good and helpful and full of information I'd never think of! Everything was perfect, they really knew their jobs at both firms and took great care of me. I can't recommend them highly enough and will keep their contact information in my wallet ready to share with all who may ask! Thanks so much, Colby!
- Lynne D.B.
Are Motorcyclists Required to Wear Helmets in Marin County, CA?
Yes, motorcyclists must wear helmets in Marin County. California law mandates that all motorcyclists and their passengers wear a Department of Transportation (DOT)-approved helmet while riding. The law applies regardless of the rider's age or experience level.
The Role of Comparative Negligence in California Motorcycle Accident Claims
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault but weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the collision, you may be wondering if you can still recover damages. Under California's comparative negligence laws, you can still recover some compensation even if you were partially to blame for your injuries. Each party involved in an accident may bear a percentage of responsibility based on their actions leading up to the incident, which can directly impact how much you can expect to recover.
Common Forms of Driver Negligence That Cause Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles, due to their smaller size and different handling characteristics, require extra vigilance from other drivers. Unfortunately, motorists do not always exhibit the necessary attention and respect for motorcyclists on the road, and this lack of awareness can lead to catastrophic collisions. Whether it's overlooking a motorcyclist in their blind spot or underestimating the impact of aggressive driving around a motorcycle, these moments of carelessness can have life-altering repercussions.
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by:
- Distracted driving. When a driver takes their focus off the road – whether due to texting, eating, or adjusting their GPS – they dramatically increase the risk of a collision. For motorcyclists, who are less visible and more vulnerable, even a brief moment of distraction from a motorist can result in a devastating crash.
- Failure to yield the right of way. Motorcyclists are frequently victims of accidents when drivers fail to yield properly at intersections or during lane changes. These incidents often occur because drivers either do not see the motorcycle or misjudge its speed and distance.
- Driving under the influence. Impaired drivers pose a major hazard to all road users, and motorcyclists are especially at risk. Alcohol or drug consumption reduces reaction times, impairs judgment, and compromises the ability to recognize smaller, more agile vehicles like motorcycles on the road.
- Following too closely. Tailgating can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists. Motorcycles can stop more quickly than larger vehicles, and when a driver follows too closely, they may not have adequate time to react in case the motorcyclist slows down or stops suddenly. This negligence often results in rear-end collisions, which are especially harmful to riders who lack the physical protection afforded by cars.
- Aggressive driving and road rage. Aggressive behaviors, such as speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, or deliberately cutting off other vehicles, are particularly hazardous to motorcyclists. Such reckless actions not only create dangerous situations but also leave motorcyclists with little or no time to react appropriately, putting their safety in jeopardy.
- Ignoring blind spots. Motorcycles can easily go unnoticed in a driver’s blind spots, especially when a driver does not check their mirrors or turn their head before changing lanes. Failing to account for these areas can directly cause side-swipe accidents, which can throw riders off balance or cause them to crash.
What Damages Can I Recover in a California Motorcycle Accident Case?
Time limits apply to all personal injury claims in California, including motorcycle accidents. If you do not file a lawsuit within two years of the accident, you will most likely be unable to recover any damages.
A successful personal injury claim allows you to get compensation for economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are easily measurable in dollars, while non-economic damages are intangible and tougher to quantify. Our team at Kuvara Law Firm can accurately determine your damages and fight for what you deserve.
Our Marin County motorcycle accident lawyers can work to secure compensation for all losses, including:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
We want to help you get the compensation you need to get your life back on track. Contact us online or call (628) 240-1014 to schedule a free case evaluation.
