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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"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. -
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Neal and Colby Kuvara worked tirelessly to achieve a result I am happy with. They did not promise me anything they did not deliver. Along with this, they are decent people, not something you may associate with Lawyers. They proceeded at a pace that allowed me to heal and kept me informed of all developments in a timely manner. I could not recommend them more highly.- Jason D. -
"Mr. Kuvara and his team are truly amazing! He is the most kind hearted and will do everything he can to win your case."
They are very prompt with responses and follow up. The entire process was stress free (especially going through this during the middle of the pandemic) and seamless! He heard, understood my pain and had the most sincerest empathy for me. This review has been LONG overdue. He took care of me in 2020 and has left an everlasting impression in my life. I recommend everyone to Mr. Kuvara and his outstanding team! Thank you all from the bottom of my heart!
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"From the first moment I contacted the Kuvara staff and lawyers, I felt protected, informed, and very well legally represented"
I had an accident on 12/2022, and my life and all the projects I had for the future had to change drastically, but even with all the sacrifice and pain that it entails, I decided to face it and do everything necessary to overcome this stage in my life, I was fortunate to be represented by the Kuvara law firm. I am very happy and satisfied with the way my case was resolved, the professionalism on the part of the firm and the monetary compensation I received, it was fair and I only have gratitude on my part to all the members of the Kuvara law firm.
- Monica V.
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.
