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Motorcycle Laws in California

Frank Penney Injury Lawyers is a personal injury law firm with years of experience in motorcycle accident cases, and we know how important it is that you comply with state laws for your safety as well as your passengers’. Bikers are especially vulnerable to serious, even fatal, motorcycle injury accidents, lacking the protection of an enclosed vehicle.

Because of the unfortunate public perception that bikers are reckless drivers, you may also have to work extra hard to prove your compliance with the law when pursuing a motorcycle accident claim. Being aware of California motorcycle laws is the first step toward protecting yourself from future liability.

Motorcycle Requirements

The first, most fundamental way to obey California motorcycle law is to drive a street-legal machine. At a minimum, your bike must have:

Safe tires, with sufficient tread and air pressure.
Working brakes in the front and rear.

Headlights, taillight, brake light, and turn signals.
At least one mirror.

A horn.

Additionally, your feet must be able to touch the ground while you are seated on the motorcycle.

Motorcycle License Requirements

The state of California issues the following driver’s license classes for two-wheel vehicle operation:

Class M1 allows you to operate:

any two-wheel motorcycle
a motor-driven cycle
a motorized scooter
all vehicles listed under Class M2

Class M2 allows you to operate:

a motorized bicycle
a moped
a motorized scooter

Traffic Laws for Motorcycle Safety

General traffic laws apply to driving motorcycles: you must stay within the speed limit, obey traffic lights, and drive sober. In California, it is illegal for a person under 21 years old to drive under the influence of alcohol at any level. For those 21 years old or older, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or above.

California motorcycle law does not impose an age restriction on passengers if their feet comfortably reach the footrests. Passengers must wear a helmet that fits properly.

Lane splitting is legal in California as of 2017 but use caution and be aware of other vehicles. Driving on the shoulder is not considered lane splitting and is not permitted by law.

Motorcycles towing trailers must stay within a speed limit of 55 mph and remain in the right lane, except when passing. On four-lane highways, they must keep to the right two lanes and are never allowed in carpool lanes.

Helmets and Gear

By law, you must wear a motorcycle safety helmet that complies with U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) requirements. There are three types to choose from half-shell, three-quarters, or full-face. For optimal coverage and protection, choose a full-face helmet with a lock-in visor.

It is not required by law, but for general motorcycle safety, it is highly suggested you wear:

Protection for your face and/or eyes.
Protective clothing and closed-toe shoes or boots.

A motorcycle driver may not wear a headset, earplugs, or earphones in both ears. If worn in only one ear, they must allow the driver to hear emergency horns and sirens. The only exception to these rules is that one may wear ear protectors (earplugs or molds) that are designed to reduce harmful noise levels in both ears.

Refer to the California Highway Patrol’s motorcyclist safety page for more information.

Reporting a Motorcycle Accident

Collisions that cause more than $1000 in property damage, or cause a personal injury to anyone involved, must be reported to the DMV. The responsible party is the one who was at fault for the accident, or an official representative such as an insurance agent, broker, or motorcycle accident lawyer.

This report must be made within 10 days on a form called the Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California (SR1). Failure to report the collision may result in a suspended driver’s license. Refer to the California Driver Handbook for more information.

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Injured Motorcyclist Resolved Case for $500,000 Policy Limit

Plaintiff was operating a motorcycle when he was involved in a collision in a rural part of San Joaquin County, California in May of 2012. The Defendant, driving a full-size pickup truck, made a left turn directly in front of Plaintiff, violently colliding with Plaintiff and his motorcycle. Plaintiff was ejected from his motorcycle, traveled […]

Broken Motorcycle — Roseville, CA — Frank Penney Injury Lawyers

Call Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today

The California motorcycle accident attorneys of Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, understand why more and more men and women are being drawn to motorcycle riding in California. Many like to ride for recreation. They are drawn to the excitement of the open road and the many friendships they create with members of a motorcycle organization. Our state offers plenty of scenic rides along the coast and other highways. Some use motorcycles as their main form of transportation because they are a cost-efficient transportation method. However, you use your bike, we have a team ready to help you if you are involved in a wreck. If you were hurt because of someone else’s negligence, we believe you have the right to compensation. If you have medical injuries preventing you from working, the bills start piling up and you must contact us as soon as possible. Our law office is available for you 24/7. Give our legal team a call today at 888-888-0566.

No Fee Guarantee!

Our legal team understands that life can be very stressful after an accident of any type. The financial costs of your accident can add to that stress. When you are asking for help, this should make your life easier – not more difficult. That is why you do not have to worry about any upfront legal fees and expenses when you hire Frank Penney Injury Lawyers to handle your California personal injury case.

At Frank Penney Injury Lawyers, Frank Penney and his staff work on a contingency basis. This means you only have to pay a fee if you win your case. We will never charge a fee unless we obtain a settlement on your behalf. No win. No fee. Case closed.

This means there is no risk in asking Frank Penney Injury Lawyers for help. You get to benefit from Frank Penney’s years of experience, knowledge, and success without needing to stress about the cost. Call today to set up a free initial case assessment or to learn more.

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer — Roseville, CA — Frank Penney Injury Lawyers

“Treated Me Like I Was Not Just a Client”

Frank D. Penny Law firm has done a wonderful job for me, everything from start to finish was fairly easy they did not stress me out. Joshua Boyce was very caring if I had any questions I could call him at anytime for answers, he was very knowledgeable he treated me like I was not just a client but more like a family member. All in all I could not have asked for better attorneys they handled my case with utmost care … thank you all!

- LARRY G.

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Slide title

“I am Beyond Grateful”

Huge thank you to everyone at Frank Penney’s law office. My settlement took two years to finish because I had SO MANY treatment facilities, doctors, bills, etc. from my car accident, and Mr. Penney’s office told me everything they needed and we worked together to get the best settlement we could. I am beyond grateful. Seriously if you need someone who will help you, work with you, and benefit everyone, go to Frank Penney. And a special thanks to Sarah at his office!!!!

- KYLI O.

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“Achieved a Result Better Than Expected”

We can happily recommend Frank Penny Lawyers to anyone needing a personal injury firm. Not only were they professional and achieved a result better than expected, Frank, his associates and staff are personable and comfortable to work with.

- NEIL C.

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“This is a Rockstar Firm!”

Priscilla was awesome! My wife and I were in a major accident and were not at fault. We tried working with the insurance company of the driver at fault and they would not work with us. Priscilla was able to take the stress off of us and did everything she could to make it as easy as possible. This is a Rockstar firm and I would send anyone I know to them!

- QUANTUM GARAGE

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“James and Priscilla Fought Both Harder & Smarter on My Behalf”

After I was injured in a substantial rear-end collision, I knew I was going to need some serious help in the days ahead, so I contacted Frank Penney right away, which turned out to be a very smart move as I quickly learned that the opposition had next to no thoughts of offering me any reasonable compensation for my injuries, medical bills and lost earnings. The other insurance company fought hard to avoid accepting responsibility but James and Priscilla fought both harder and smarter on my behalf. I was shocked when my case ultimately went all the way to trial, but I was impressed watching James deliver a solid victory for my case, a victory that not only met but exceeded our last demand. I hope I am never hurt in another collision, but if I am, I’ll be returning to Frank Penney and his staff. Thanks to James and Priscilla for getting me a such positive outcome.

- KYLE H.

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“Understanding and Helpful Throughout This Very Hard Time”

Frank D. Penney Law office was such a pleasure to work with. After interviewing several other law offices to handle our case we knew we would allow Frank D. Penney to take our case the moment he left the room. His office was able to make our four individual cases run smoothly together. They were so understanding and so helpful throughout this very hard time we’ve all had to live through. They were very professional yet personable from the secretary to the top from day one. Individually and as a group in regards to the office I think I speak for all four of us when I say how much of a blessing this office has been to us. I highly recommend this office for any personal injury cases, I know you will not be disappointed.

- ELENA F.

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“They Were Very Up-Front and Honest with Me”

My experience with Frank Penney’s Law Firm has been wonderful. They were very up-front and honest with me and were able to seek the maximum reimbursement for my injuries. I hope I am in a position that I will ever need an attorney again, but if I am, I will come back!

- PAUL C.

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“I Received the Maximum Policy Pay-outs”

In May 2014, I was rear ended on my way home from work. I knew early on that physically, there was something wrong. As the primary earner for my family, my greatest concern was ending up with substantial debt as a result of the cost of my need for ongoing medical care. Frank’s staff was very helpful in putting me at ease by ensuring that I always received regular updates on the status of my case. Then, in October 2015, I was rear ended on my way to work. A second rear ender? Really? I couldn’t believe it. It was unfathomable; I was absolutely frazzled and flabbergasted. But yet again, Frank and his staff were incredibly supportive in helping me navigate what was now an even more complex situation.

After two years and having to endure constant doctors appointments, constantly getting prescriptions and finally the process of having titanium rods hammered in to my hip/SI joint, Priscilla specifically, was incredibly effective at ensuring that I received the maximum policy pay outs that spanned across three different insurance companies. The payouts were sufficient to cover the medical costs and then some. Ultimately, these accidents have changed my life and have limited my physical abilities. The impact to me impacts my family but I cannot imagine having to manage this ridiculous situation without the support of Frank’s team (Priscilla, James, Elsa, Rachel and Yuri). If you need support and want to be treated like a person in the process, Frank Penney’s firm is the firm for you.

- D.R.

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“Recommend Friends & Family to This Law Firm”

They were awesome. Very professional and would recommend friends and family to this law firm. I would definitely come back. My attorney was Priscilla and she was great! Answered all my calls and if I left her a voicemail she would call right back.

- RANDY S.

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“The Best Decision I Ever Made”

Call Frank Penney Law and let go of your worry and frustration and secure needed funds for future possible medical care. We were rear ended and our SUV totaled. Our family had just moved to NC from CA. My daughter and I were together in the car and were injured from the accident. Our first priority was getting better and finding the proper medical care that would lead to a full recovery. I also had to deal with the auto and medical insurance companies and all the bills that start coming in the mail after receiving needed medical treatment. It was becoming overwhelming and then came all sorts of letters in the mail from lawyers that wanted our case. I didn’t feel comfortable with any of their attempts to get my business. But I needed help. I called Frank, since I had known him when we lived in CA, and when he explained how he and his staff could help me and basically take everything off my plate that was stressing me out and that our physical location across the country didn’t matter, I said “yes, please help us.” Frank talked with me as if he had all the time in the world and I felt completely comfortable turning everything over to him. The settlement was more than I could have received on my own and the fact that I could hand it all over to him to resolve was without a doubt worth it! It was the best decision I ever made throughout this process. We were supported by Frank’s knowledgeable staff. I can, without hesitation, recommend Penney law offices with the highest praise.

- JANNA

Button

“Treated Me Like I Was Not Just a Client”

Frank D. Penny Law firm has done a wonderful job for me, everything from start to finish was fairly easy they did not stress me out. Joshua Boyce was very caring if I had any questions I could call him at anytime for answers, he was very knowledgeable he treated me like I was not just a client but more like a family member. All in all I could not have asked for better attorneys they handled my case with utmost care … thank you all!

- LARRY G.

Button
Slide title

“I am Beyond Grateful”

Huge thank you to everyone at Frank Penney’s law office. My settlement took two years to finish because I had SO MANY treatment facilities, doctors, bills, etc. from my car accident, and Mr. Penney’s office told me everything they needed and we worked together to get the best settlement we could. I am beyond grateful. Seriously if you need someone who will help you, work with you, and benefit everyone, go to Frank Penney. And a special thanks to Sarah at his office!!!!

- KYLI O.

Button
“Achieved a Result Better Than Expected”

We can happily recommend Frank Penny Lawyers to anyone needing a personal injury firm. Not only were they professional and achieved a result better than expected, Frank, his associates and staff are personable and comfortable to work with.

- NEIL C.

Button
“This is a Rockstar Firm!”

Priscilla was awesome! My wife and I were in a major accident and were not at fault. We tried working with the insurance company of the driver at fault and they would not work with us. Priscilla was able to take the stress off of us and did everything she could to make it as easy as possible. This is a Rockstar firm and I would send anyone I know to them!

- QUANTUM GARAGE

Button
“James and Priscilla Fought Both Harder & Smarter on My Behalf”

After I was injured in a substantial rear-end collision, I knew I was going to need some serious help in the days ahead, so I contacted Frank Penney right away, which turned out to be a very smart move as I quickly learned that the opposition had next to no thoughts of offering me any reasonable compensation for my injuries, medical bills and lost earnings. The other insurance company fought hard to avoid accepting responsibility but James and Priscilla fought both harder and smarter on my behalf. I was shocked when my case ultimately went all the way to trial, but I was impressed watching James deliver a solid victory for my case, a victory that not only met but exceeded our last demand. I hope I am never hurt in another collision, but if I am, I’ll be returning to Frank Penney and his staff. Thanks to James and Priscilla for getting me a such positive outcome.

- KYLE H.

Button
“Understanding and Helpful Throughout This Very Hard Time”

Frank D. Penney Law office was such a pleasure to work with. After interviewing several other law offices to handle our case we knew we would allow Frank D. Penney to take our case the moment he left the room. His office was able to make our four individual cases run smoothly together. They were so understanding and so helpful throughout this very hard time we’ve all had to live through. They were very professional yet personable from the secretary to the top from day one. Individually and as a group in regards to the office I think I speak for all four of us when I say how much of a blessing this office has been to us. I highly recommend this office for any personal injury cases, I know you will not be disappointed.

- ELENA F.

Button
“They Were Very Up-Front and Honest with Me”

My experience with Frank Penney’s Law Firm has been wonderful. They were very up-front and honest with me and were able to seek the maximum reimbursement for my injuries. I hope I am in a position that I will ever need an attorney again, but if I am, I will come back!

- PAUL C.

Button
“I Received the Maximum Policy Pay-outs”

In May 2014, I was rear ended on my way home from work. I knew early on that physically, there was something wrong. As the primary earner for my family, my greatest concern was ending up with substantial debt as a result of the cost of my need for ongoing medical care. Frank’s staff was very helpful in putting me at ease by ensuring that I always received regular updates on the status of my case. Then, in October 2015, I was rear ended on my way to work. A second rear ender? Really? I couldn’t believe it. It was unfathomable; I was absolutely frazzled and flabbergasted. But yet again, Frank and his staff were incredibly supportive in helping me navigate what was now an even more complex situation.

After two years and having to endure constant doctors appointments, constantly getting prescriptions and finally the process of having titanium rods hammered in to my hip/SI joint, Priscilla specifically, was incredibly effective at ensuring that I received the maximum policy pay outs that spanned across three different insurance companies. The payouts were sufficient to cover the medical costs and then some. Ultimately, these accidents have changed my life and have limited my physical abilities. The impact to me impacts my family but I cannot imagine having to manage this ridiculous situation without the support of Frank’s team (Priscilla, James, Elsa, Rachel and Yuri). If you need support and want to be treated like a person in the process, Frank Penney’s firm is the firm for you.

- D.R.

Button
“Recommend Friends & Family to This Law Firm”

They were awesome. Very professional and would recommend friends and family to this law firm. I would definitely come back. My attorney was Priscilla and she was great! Answered all my calls and if I left her a voicemail she would call right back.

- RANDY S.

Button
“The Best Decision I Ever Made”

Call Frank Penney Law and let go of your worry and frustration and secure needed funds for future possible medical care. We were rear ended and our SUV totaled. Our family had just moved to NC from CA. My daughter and I were together in the car and were injured from the accident. Our first priority was getting better and finding the proper medical care that would lead to a full recovery. I also had to deal with the auto and medical insurance companies and all the bills that start coming in the mail after receiving needed medical treatment. It was becoming overwhelming and then came all sorts of letters in the mail from lawyers that wanted our case. I didn’t feel comfortable with any of their attempts to get my business. But I needed help. I called Frank, since I had known him when we lived in CA, and when he explained how he and his staff could help me and basically take everything off my plate that was stressing me out and that our physical location across the country didn’t matter, I said “yes, please help us.” Frank talked with me as if he had all the time in the world and I felt completely comfortable turning everything over to him. The settlement was more than I could have received on my own and the fact that I could hand it all over to him to resolve was without a doubt worth it! It was the best decision I ever made throughout this process. We were supported by Frank’s knowledgeable staff. I can, without hesitation, recommend Penney law offices with the highest praise.

- JANNA

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If you are involved in any type of personal injury due to the fault of someone else, our experienced team at Frank Penney Injury Lawyers can help. We are available to anyone in Northern California 24/7! Give us a call today to learn more at 888-888-0566. We will fight for your rights!

No matter where you are in Northern California, or how you reach us, we will be there for you 24/7!

You Can Bank on Frank!