San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident Attorney
| Feher Law
- Top Rated Trial Firm
- Over $100 Million Recovered For Clients
- No Fees Unless We Win
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Even though California has strict helmet laws for motorcyclists and the roads are well-maintained, there are, on average, 48 motorcyclist deaths every year in San Bernardino County
This is a scary rate, and with the city’s bustling streets and high accident rates, navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle collision can be daunting. But you don’t have to face it alone.
We have a San Bernardino motorcycle accident lawyer to lend a sympathetic ear and provide you with the support and legal guidance you need to overcome this difficult time.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger car occupants – injuries are often severe and case values reflect that.
- California is one of the only states that permits lane splitting under California Vehicle Code §21658.1. Lawful lane splitting does not automatically make you at fault.
- You have 2 years from the crash date to file a personal injury lawsuit in California (Code of Civil Procedure §335.1).
- Drivers who fail to yield or make unsafe lane changes are the leading cause of motorcycle crashes – these cases often support full liability against the other driver.
- Feher Law handles motorcycle accident cases on contingency – you pay nothing unless we win.
Do You Have a Case?
To pursue a successful motorcycle accident claim in San Bernardino, several key legal elements must be established. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorney in San Bernardino will evaluate your case to determine whether these important components are present:
- Duty of care: The other party (typically another driver) had a legal obligation to operate their vehicle safely.
- Breach of duty: The other party violated this duty through negligence, recklessness, or illegal actions.
- Causation: Their breach directly caused your accident and resulting injuries.
- Damages: You suffered actual damages (medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering) as a result.
Damages You Can Recover
After a motorcycle accident in San Bernardino, you may be entitled to substantial compensation for your losses. Our team fights aggressively to secure maximum recovery across all damage categories:
- Economic damages: Measurable financial losses including medical expenses (past and future), lost wages, lost earning capacity, property damage, and rehabilitation costs.
- Non-economic damages: Less tangible but equally important losses such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, and loss of consortium.
- Punitive damages: In cases involving extreme negligence or intentional misconduct, additional compensation may be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior.
Our San Bernardino motorcycle accident attorneys won’t let you settle for less than you deserve!
Wondering What Your Motorcycle Accident Claim Might Be Worth?
Once you understand the types of damages available, the next step is figuring out how much your claim might be worth. Our motorcycle accident settlement calculator helps estimate your case’s potential value based on real factors—medical expenses, future treatment, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and even your share of fault. It’s a simple way to start building clarity around your financial recovery.
Keep in mind that every case in San Bernardino is unique. For a truly accurate understanding of your compensation—and to make sure no damages are overlooked—contact our experienced San Bernardino motorcycle accident lawyers today. We’re ready to fight for the full value of your claim.
Disclaimer: The result from this calculator is an estimate only and doesn’t constitute legal advice. Many case factors affect actual compensation amounts.
Selected Value: 0%
Why Hire Feher Law?
As your trusted partner in navigating the complexities of personal injury lawsuits in San Bernardino, our firm is dedicated to representing individuals who have suffered severe injuries due to the negligence of others.
We specialize in a wide range of injury cases, with a particular emphasis on motorcycle accidents, brain injuries, catastrophic injuries and spinal cord injuries, and wrongful death.
But when it comes to selecting legal representation for your motorcycle accident case in San Bernardino, it’s essential to choose a firm that prioritizes your needs, provides unwavering support, and delivers results.
Here’s why we believe you should choose us over other personal injury law firm:
- YOU are our priority: Motorcycle rider accident victims can expect personalized attention, compassionate guidance, and dedicated advocacy tailored to your unique circumstances.
- Available to our clients 24/7: Whether you have a question, need assistance, or require urgent legal advice, you can count on us to be there for you when you need us most.
- Litigation and trial firm: We possess the specialized knowledge to navigate your motorcycle accident case, from the initial claim filing to litigation and trial, if required. Our team is equipped to handle the complexities of motorcycle accident cases and guide you through the legal process with expertise and diligence.
- Expert local knowledge: We have a deep understanding of California’s laws and regulations governing a motorcycle accident caused by an at-fault party and have successfully represented numerous clients in similar cases.
- Proven track record: We secured a $9 million verdict for Mr. Soulliere when he broke his leg after the brakes on his Suzuki motorbike failed.
- Taking the pressure off: We strive to take away all the pressure from our clients, handling every aspect of their case with professionalism and care. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurers, we handle the legal complexities so that our clients can focus on their recovery.
By choosing us as your motorcycle accident attorneys in San Bernardino, you can trust that you are in capable hands. We are committed to securing the maximum compensation for your serious injuries and losses, and we will tirelessly fight for your rights every step of the way.
Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation – the average motorcycle accident settlement in California is more than you think!
Recent Case Results
Meet Our Team
Thomas Feher, Esq.
Founding Attorney
Stephen Wiard, Esq.
Senior Trial Attorney
Sandy Luu, Esq.
Associate Attorney
Alex Ballard, Esq.
Associate Attorney
Karen Parra, Esq.
Associate Attorney
Chase Nielsen, Esq.
Associate Attorney
Betsy Gomez
Managing Paralegal
Erica Feher
Chief of Operations
How Our San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident Law Firm Can Help
Here’s how our experienced team can support you in navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle collision and seeking the compensation you deserve:
- Types of Cases: Our firm handles a wide range of motorcycle accident cases, including those involving negligence, reckless driving, distracted driving, road rash, and more. No matter the circumstances of your accident, our skilled attorneys have the expertise to represent your interests effectively.
- Recovering Lost Wages: Our team will help you pursue compensation for lost income and future earning potential, ensuring that you can focus on your recovery without worrying about financial burdens.
- Help with Medical Bills: We work tirelessly to help you obtain the compensation needed to cover hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and ongoing treatment expenses, ensuring that you receive the necessary care without facing financial hardship.
- Property Damage: Our expert legal team will assist you in recovering compensation for repair or replacement costs, ensuring that you are not left to shoulder the financial burden of property damage caused by another party’s negligence.
- Emotional Recovery: Dealing with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can take a significant toll on your emotional well-being. Our compassionate lawyers are here to provide support and guidance throughout the legal process.
Contact us to learn more about how we can assist you in pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Important Initial Advice!
Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident in California is crucial to protect your rights and well-being. Here are some important pieces of initial advice to consider:
- Follow Expert Medical Advice: Your health should be your top priority. Make sure to attend all medical appointments and follow the advice of healthcare professionals. Prompt medical attention can help document your injuries and ensure you receive the necessary treatment for recovery.
- Get in Touch with our San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident Attorneys: Seeking legal representation is essential to protect your rights and navigate the complexities of the legal process.
- Stay off Social Media: Insurers may use your social media posts against you to undermine your claim. It’s best to refrain from sharing any information until your case is resolved.
- Don’t Accept the First Offer: Insurers often make lowball settlement offers to minimize their payout. Resist the urge to accept the first offer and consult with an experienced San Bernardino motorcycle accident lawyer to evaluate the true value of when your file a claim.
- Be Careful in Communicating with the Insurance Company: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be misconstrued and used against you. It’s advisable to let your motorcycle accident injury lawyer handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf.
Statute of Limitations
Understanding the deadlines associated with accidents involving motorcycles is crucial for protecting your legal rights and ensuring that you have the opportunity to seek compensation for your injuries.
The California motorcycle accident statute of limitations sets a deadline for filing a lawsuit after a motor vehicle accident, which is two years from the date of the accident.
If you fail to file your claim within this timeframe, you may lose your right to pursue compensation for your injuries and damages. Given the importance of adhering to these deadlines, it’s essential to avoid delay and take prompt action after a motorcycle accident.
A skilled injury attorney can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the legal process and advocating for your rights. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and representing you in court, we can help ensure that your interests are protected every step of the way.
Don’t wait until it’s too late – reach out to a qualified attorney today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Gathering Evidence
- Police Documentation: Obtain a copy of the accident report filed at the scene of the accident. This document can provide valuable information about the circumstances of the crash and help establish liability.
- Medical Records: Keep thorough records of all medical treatment received for injuries sustained in the accident. This includes hospital records, doctor’s notes, prescription medications, and any other relevant medical documentation.
- Eyewitness Statements: If there were witnesses to the accident, try to obtain their contact information and statements about what they saw. Eyewitness testimony can corroborate your version of events and strengthen your case.
- Photo/Video Evidence: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. This visual evidence can be compelling in demonstrating the severity of the accident and the extent of your injuries.
What Can I Expect to Pay?
We understand that concerns about legal fees can add stress to an already challenging situation. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis, ensuring that our clients can pursue their claims without worrying about upfront costs.
With the contingency fee model, you won’t have to pay any upfront fees or retainer charges to retain our services. We believe that everyone should have access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Our fees are contingent upon the successful outcome of your case, meaning that if we don’t secure compensation for you, you won’t owe us anything.
General Information on Motorcycle Accidents in San Bernardino
San Bernardino’s mix of urban traffic congestion and scenic mountain roads creates unique hazards for motorcyclists. With approximately 48 motorcyclist deaths annually in San Bernardino County, riders face significant risks despite California’s strict safety regulations and generally well-maintained roadways.
California Motorcycle Laws
California has specific laws that directly affect motorcyclists and can impact both accident prevention and legal outcomes following a collision:
- Helmet Requirements: California enforces a universal helmet law that requires all motorcycle operators and passengers to wear properly fitted and fastened safety helmets at all times while riding. These helmets must meet Department of Transportation (DOT) standards.
- Lane Splitting Regulations: California is the only state that explicitly legalizes lane splitting, which allows motorcyclists to ride between lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. The California Highway Patrol recommends not traveling more than 10 mph faster than surrounding traffic and avoiding lane splitting when traffic is moving at speeds greater than 30 mph.
Following these rules can strongly influence insurance claims and injury lawsuits.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
According to the 2024 SafeTREC Traffic Safety Facts on Motorcycle Safety report, motorcycle accidents in California have distinct patterns that riders in San Bernardino should be aware of.
The report identifies the top five primary crash causes for motorcycle fatal and serious injury crashes in California:
- Unsafe Speed: Accounting for 29% of serious motorcycle crashes, excessive speed remains the leading cause of severe motorcycle accidents in California, including San Bernardino County.
- Improper Turning: Making up about 21% of serious crashes, this includes both motorcyclists and other vehicles making dangerous or illegal turns.
- Right-of-Way Violations: Approximately 17% of serious motorcycle crashes occur when other drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to motorcyclists, often during left turns at intersections.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and/or drug impairment contributes to roughly 10% of fatal and serious injury motorcycle crashes in California.
- Lane Violations: Despite lane splitting being legal in California, improper lane changes and violations account for approximately 5% of serious motorcycle accidents.
California Insurance Requirements
California operates under a comparative fault system for motorcycle accidents, which means your compensation can be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you in an accident.
For example, if you’re found to be 20% responsible for the crash, your potential recovery would be reduced by that same percentage. This makes thorough documentation and proper legal representation essential to ensure fair fault determination.
All motorcyclists in California must carry minimum liability insurance coverage of $15,000 for injury or death to one person, $30,000 for injury or death to multiple people, and $5,000 for property damage.
These minimums, while legally sufficient, often fall far short of covering the extensive damages that typically result from motorcycle accidents, especially those involving serious injuries.
Unlike some states, California does not mandate Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage for motorcyclists. However, we strongly recommend purchasing optional uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.
This additional coverage is vital if you’re injured by a driver with insufficient or no insurance, providing an essential safety net in a state with a high percentage of uninsured motorists.
Types of Injuries Handled by a San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents in San Bernardino often lead to serious injuries due to the limited protection riders have compared to those in automobiles. Motorcyclists face a higher risk of fatality and injury in crashes.
Common injuries resulting from these accidents include:
- Road rash: Severe skin abrasions that can lead to infection and permanent scarring
- Degloving: Traumatic separation of skin from underlying tissue, often requiring extensive reconstructive surgery
- Spinal cord injuries: Ranging from herniated discs to complete paralysis
- Head and neck injuries: Concussions to traumatic brain injuries, even with helmet use
- Arm injuries: Often resulting from instinctive attempts to break falls
- Leg injuries: The most commonly injured body part in motorcycle crashes
- Broken bones: Multiple fractures are common, often requiring surgical intervention
- Amputation: Either traumatic (at the scene) or surgical (due to irreparable damage)
- Paralysis: Partial or complete loss of mobility due to spinal cord damage
- Fatalities: San Bernardino County averages 48 motorcycle fatalities annually, according to county traffic safety records.
What to Expect:
- Free Case Evaluation: We review the accident details, road conditions, witness accounts, and your injuries at no cost to assess liability and case value.
- Accident Investigation: We gather the police report, traffic camera footage, witness statements, and expert analysis to establish the other driver’s negligence.
- Medical Documentation: We help ensure all injuries – including traumatic brain injuries, road rash, and fractures – are fully documented to support maximum compensation.
- Insurance Negotiation: We fight back against insurers who try to blame the motorcyclist. We respond with evidence-backed demand letters and refuse lowball offers.
- Trial Representation: If the insurer won’t offer fair value, we take your case to a jury. Feher Law attorneys have tried 40+ cases, including serious motorcycle injury claims.
Speak to a San Bernardino Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today!
When you find yourself dealing with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident at the fault of another driver, remember that you’re not in this alone. Our team of experienced California motorcycle accident attorneys is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us today to schedule a consultation with a dedicated motorcycle accident lawyer in San Bernardino, CA. It’s the first crucial step toward getting the justice you deserve and rebuilding your life.
Last reviewed by Thomas Feher, Esq. – April 2026
Other Locations We Serve
In addition to serving the San Bernardino area, our firm extends its services to various other locations throughout Southern California.
As your trusted San Bernardino personal injury lawyer, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal representation to clients in cities included but not limited to:
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Services We Offer
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FAQs
Does lane splitting affect my right to compensation in California?
Lane splitting is legal in California under California Vehicle Code §21658.1, which permits motorcyclists to ride between rows of stopped or slow-moving traffic. If you were lane splitting within safe conditions, it does not automatically make you at fault for an accident. Whether your lane splitting contributed to the crash is a factual question an attorney can address with evidence.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in California?
Motorcycle accident victims have 2 years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit under Code of Civil Procedure §335.1. Acting quickly matters because witness memories fade and physical evidence is lost. If a government entity was involved - such as a road defect on a public street - the claim window can be as short as 6 months.
Promptly notify your insurance company, providing accurate details, and consult with a motorcycle accident attorney early in the process.
An attorney can guide you through the complexities, gather necessary evidence, and handle communications with insurance companies to protect your interests. They evaluate any settlement offers, ensuring they adequately cover damages. If negotiations prove challenging, legal action may be pursued to secure fair compensation for injuries and damages resulting from the motorcycle crash.
What compensation can I recover after a San Bernardino motorcycle accident?
Recoverable damages include emergency and ongoing medical treatment, surgeries, rehabilitation, lost wages, future loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, permanent scarring or disfigurement, and property damage. Motorcycle crashes frequently result in catastrophic injuries, and case values often reach six or seven figures. Feher Law evaluates the full lifetime impact before any settlement.
What if I was not wearing a helmet during the accident?
Not wearing a helmet does not eliminate your right to compensation in California. However, the defense may argue that head injuries were more severe than they would have been with a helmet, potentially reducing damages for those specific injuries. You can still recover full compensation for all other injuries. This argument requires an experienced attorney to counter effectively.
What if the other driver claims I was at fault because I was on a motorcycle?
California's pure comparative fault rule under Civil Code §1714 allows you to recover even if you are found partially at fault. Bias against motorcyclists is common from insurers and in some cases from juries. Feher Law builds a strong evidence record - including police reports, witness accounts, and expert analysis - to counter unfair fault allocation.
How is a motorcycle accident case different from a car accident case?
Motorcycle cases are more complex because injuries are typically more severe, insurers routinely attempt to blame the rider, and California's lane-splitting law creates additional legal issues. These cases also often involve bias against motorcyclists in negotiations and at trial. Feher Law has specific experience with motorcycle cases and knows how to present them for maximum recovery.
GET A FREE CONSULTATION
Our team is standing by and ready to assist you. Consultations are completely free and confidential. We will help you determine if you have a case.
- Over $100 Million Recovered For Clients
- No Fees Unless We Win
- We Fight for Maximum Compensation
- Get The Justice You Deserve
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