Your Case is Important

What You Need to Know About California Motorcycle Collisions

Motorcyclists are often in much more danger than other car and truck drivers on the road, simply due to the overwhelming discrepancy in size and weight between these types of vehicles and others on the road. Inherent in the risks that most motorcycle riders face on a daily basis are problems caused by road impediments such as minor divots in the pavement, visual impediments, speed accidents, and riding skill accidents. For motorcycle riders, there is a very real risk of tipping and falling, being thrown off course by a minor road issue, wobbling from excessive speed, or being hit by a driver who did not see the smaller visual target on the road. Injured in a motorcycle accident? Let our motorcycle accident lawyers in San Jose give you the representation you deserve!

On This Page:

Why Contact an Attorney Experienced in Handling Motorcycle Accident Claims?

An alarmingly high number of motorcycle riders are injured while out riding, most in accidents that were not caused by the rider. In fact, 2/3 of motorcycle accidents with another vehicle were the fault of the automobile driver, not the motorcycle rider. Considering these two important facts about motorcycle riders:

  • They are more than 25 times more likely to die in a car crash than someone riding in a passenger car
  • Five times the number of regular car accidents will result in injury to a motorcyclist involved in the same collision.

There is clearly a great need to involve a legal professional in matters of this nature. It is important to ensure that, as the victim of one of these accidents, you are represented by a skilled legal professional who can help you seek compensation for the damages incurred during a collision. By contacting a motorcycle accident attorney in San Jose from Habbas & Associates, you can begin taking the legal steps necessary to address matters of this nature.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

A motorcycle accident refers to an incident involving a motorcycle, typically resulting in damage to the motorcycle and, in many cases, injuries to the rider or passengers. These accidents can occur for various reasons, but they often involve negligent motorists. Some common causes of motorcycle accidents involving motor vehicles include:

  • Distracted Driving: When drivers are distracted by activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, or adjusting the radio, they may not notice motorcycles in their vicinity.
  • Failure to Yield: Motorists may fail to yield the right of way to motorcycles, especially at intersections or when merging into traffic. This can lead to collisions and accidents.
  • Speeding: Excessive speed reduces the time a driver has to react to unexpected situations, increasing the risk of accidents. Speeding can be especially dangerous when it comes to motorcycles due to their vulnerability in a crash.
  • Left-Turn Accidents: Many motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. The driver may misjudge the motorcycle's speed or fail to see it altogether.
  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Impaired driving, whether due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications, significantly impairs a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely and increases the chances of a collision.
  • Failure to Signal: Not using turn signals or using them incorrectly can lead to confusion on the road and increase the risk of accidents, including those involving motorcycles.
  • Inexperienced Drivers: Inexperienced or poorly trained drivers may struggle to anticipate the movements of motorcycles or may not be familiar with sharing the road with them.
  • Road Hazards: Potholes, debris, and uneven road surfaces can pose significant risks to motorcyclists. These hazards may cause a rider to lose control of their motorcycle and result in an accident.
  • Unsafe Lane Changes: Drivers might not check their blind spots before changing lanes, putting motorcycles at risk. The smaller size of motorcycles makes them less visible, increasing the likelihood of a collision during a lane change.

    Your Case is Important

    Call 24/7 and schedule a free consultation with our personal injury lawyers in San Jose.

    What Is the Average Payout for a Motorcycle Accident?

    If the insurance company contacts you and offers you a settlement, it can be tempting to accept their first offer and assume that's all your case is worth. However, when deciding whether or not you have been offered a fair settlement, it's important to consider the following expenses that the settlement will need to cover:

    • Lost income through missed work
    • Ongoing treatment or therapy
    • Medical bills
    • Lost future earning capacity
    • Pain and suffering

    Unsure whether the amount you have been offered is a fair settlement? Reach out to our San Jose motorcycle accident lawyers to discuss your case in a free consultation.

    Who Is At Fault In Most Motorcycle Accidents?

    In spite of what most insurance companies would have you believe, motorcyclists are not usually the ones at fault for accidents. Many insurance companies like to promote the idea that bikers are reckless, and this recklessness leads to accidents. While this is true in some situations, it is not true for the majority of motorcycle vs. car accidents. If the insurance company tries to pin the blame on you for your accident, you don't have to just take their word for it. By hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer, you can ensure that your best interests are kept in mind and that your rights as a biker are protected.

    Dr. Funk sign

    Free Consultations Available Contact Habbas & Associates

    Whether you have questions about your case or are ready to get started, our San Jose injury attorneys are ready to help.

    This field is required.
    This field is required.
    This field is required.
    This field is required.
    Send Us a Message

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy(opens in a new tab) and Terms of Service(opens in a new tab) apply.

    man with a broken arm

    What If You Weren't Wearing a Helmet?

    If you weren't wearing a motorcycle helmet at the time of your accident, that doesn't mean you will automatically be denied compensation. In most cases, if you were not at fault for the accident, you can still recover compensation for your injuries even if you weren't wearing proper safety gear at the time. 

    However, the insurance company may argue that if you had been wearing proper safety gear, your injuries might not have been as severe. This may lead to your settlement amount being reduced. If you're worried that you may not be able to recover compensation because you weren't wearing a helmet during your accident, reach out to our team of motorcycle injury lawyers in San Jose today for help. 

    Legal Challenges Motorcyclists Must Face When Seeking Damages

    Motorcyclists seeking compensation after a motorcycle accident may encounter various legal challenges, similar to those faced by individuals involved in other types of accidents. Some of the specific challenges for motorcyclists seeking compensation include:

    Bias and Stereotypes:

    There can be biases and stereotypes against motorcyclists, which may influence the perception of fault in an accident. Some people may assume that motorcyclists are reckless or at fault by default, making it harder for them to establish a fair case.

    Limited Insurance Coverage:

    Motorcycle insurance policies may have lower coverage limits compared to those for other vehicles. In cases of severe injuries or significant property damage, the available insurance coverage may not be sufficient to fully compensate the motorcyclist.

    Severity of Injuries:

    Motorcycle accidents often result in more severe injuries compared to car accidents due to the lack of protection for riders. The severity of injuries can lead to higher medical bills and long-term rehabilitation costs, making it challenging to obtain adequate compensation.

    Difficulty Proving Liability:

    Establishing liability can be challenging in motorcycle accidents, especially when there are no independent witnesses. Motorcycles are often smaller and less visible than other vehicles, making it harder to prove who was at fault. Gathering evidence, such as witness statements, accident reconstruction, and surveillance footage, becomes crucial.

    Pre-existing Bias in Legal System:

    Some legal systems may have pre-existing biases against motorcyclists, which could affect the outcome of a case. Judges, juries, or insurance adjusters may have certain assumptions about motorcyclists that can impact the determination of fault and compensation.

    Split Liability:

    In some cases, liability may be shared between the motorcyclist and another party involved in the accident. This can complicate the claims process, and the motorcyclist may receive reduced compensation if they are found partially at fault.

    Uninsured or Underinsured Motorists:

    If the at-fault party in the accident is uninsured or underinsured, the motorcyclist may face challenges in obtaining compensation. In such cases, the injured party may need to rely on their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, if available.

    Delayed Injuries:

    Motorcycle accident injuries may not always be immediately apparent. Some injuries may have delayed symptoms, and this can create challenges when filing a claim, especially if there is a gap in time between the accident and the appearance of symptoms.

    Background media

    How Habbas & Associates Can Help

    The experience and history behind Habbas & Associatess go back many years, and the legal representation you will be provided will include the skills and information that we have worked hard to develop over the years. Working with our firm will be an experience unique from any other, as we take active measures to ensure that your needs are first and foremost among our priorities. The negligent and/ or reckless behaviors of another, which led to your accident, will be addressed by an associate from our firm in the hopes of recovering maximum compensation for your damages. Our team holds membership on some of the most notable boards in both the state and the nation, including:

    • The Consumer Attorneys of California
    • The Orange County Bar Association
    • The Trial Lawyers for Public Justice
    • The Santa Clara Bar Association
    • The American Trial Lawyers Association

    For whatever type of car accident you were involved in, you need to take adequate measures to ensure that your rights are protected as you attempt to deal with the aftermath of the matter. For a free consultation to discuss your case, contact a San Jose motorcycle accident lawyer today.

    Hear It From Our Clients

    I first hired Mr. Habbas and his firm to represent me in a car accident case over 10 years ago, and since that time, I have gone back to Mr. Habbas' firm, and I have referred ma...

    I first hired Mr. Habbas and his firm to represent me in a car accident case over 10 years ago, and since that time, I have gone back to Mr. Habbas' firm, and I have referred many people to him. These folks immediately respond to you, and they are friendly and trustworthy, and they do everything possible to help you get through tough times. My property damage was handled quickly, and I was very happy with the settlement that I obtained for my injuries.

    Daniel L. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

    I was severely hurt in a car accident involving a tractor-trailer that rear-ended my vehicle. Hiring the Habbas & Associates and working with Mr. Habbas and his colleagues was t...

    I was severely hurt in a car accident involving a tractor-trailer that rear-ended my vehicle. Hiring the Habbas & Associates and working with Mr. Habbas and his colleagues was the best decision I ever made. I had two prior lawyers that I was extremely unsatisfied with. I couldn't get a return call, and I didn't know what was going on with my case most of the time. I was very distressed because my bills were piling up and I didn't know what I was going to do. Hiring Mr. Habbas changed everything. His staff and colleagues were responsive, courteous, and helpful in every respect. I obtained access to the medical care I needed, and I was operated on by one of the best back surgeons in the area, although I didn't have medical insurance. The insurance company offered $350,000.00 to settle, and the case went to trial. We received a jury award of $2,554,000.00 plus interest and costs. The insurance company appealed only to cave and pay a total of $3,000,000.00. I am grateful to Mr. Habbas and his colleagues for everything they have done for me.

    Gordon T. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

    I suffered serious injuries because a janitor left streaks of water on a tile floor in the hallway of a building, which caused me to slip and fall while exiting from one of my p...

    I suffered serious injuries because a janitor left streaks of water on a tile floor in the hallway of a building, which caused me to slip and fall while exiting from one of my patients' hospital rooms. The insurance company denied the claim, forcing my attorneys, Habbas & Associates, to file a lawsuit. The Habbas firm was very aggressive and thorough. 

    They investigated the accident, and they questioned all important witnesses and gathered all of the evidence required to prove negligence. Although my claim was initially denied, a substantial settlement was obtained by the Habbas firm. Prior to this incident, I had never had a personal injury claim, and I never expected to have to hire an attorney to represent me for something like this. 

    Mr. Habbas and his staff are efficient, helpful, responsive, and caring. They make you feel at ease. They explain the process, and they keep you up to date. There is no one else I would prefer to have in my corner to protect me.

    Dr. S.E. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

    I was seriously hurt in a car accident that was caused by another motorist, and my airbag didn't deploy. I hired Habbas & Associates to represent me because I wasn't getting any...

    I was seriously hurt in a car accident that was caused by another motorist, and my airbag didn't deploy. I hired Habbas & Associates to represent me because I wasn't getting anywhere with the insurance company, and I didn't know how to make a claim against the manufacturer of the vehicle or airbags. Mr. Habbas and his staff were amazing. They fully explained all my rights and what they would do, step by step. I felt relieved in having what I felt was a great team of experienced lawyers and staff on my side.

    I suffered severe nerve injuries in my face, and with the help of Mr. Habbas, I was able to acquire treatment from some of the best medical doctors in the State. My case was settled at mediation for approximately $950,000.00 within a short time after a lawsuit was filed. I can't say enough about how much Mr. Habbas and his firm care about their clients. I will always refer anyone I know to them.

    Roberta S. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

    Omar Habbas will fight for you and give you the best results out of your case, I know. They take good care of their clients. I’ve never been happier. Thank you to the enti...

    Omar Habbas will fight for you and give you the best results out of your case, I know. They take good care of their clients. I’ve never been happier. Thank you to the entire team at Habbas & Associates. You are highly recommended.

    Nina Wright 5 out of 5 stars

    My wife and I got rear-ended by a DUI male driver in his mid-twenties. We suffered neck injuries and were rushed to the Emergency Dept in Natividad Hospital in Salinas, CA. One ...

    My wife and I got rear-ended by a DUI male driver in his mid-twenties. We suffered neck injuries and were rushed to the Emergency Dept in Natividad Hospital in Salinas, CA. One of my children searched for an Injury Lawyer who has a great reputation in this kind of case, and she chose HABBAS & ASSOCIATES in San Jose, CA. 

    We met with Mr. Hoang Le, and he explained the process. Mr. Le and the rest of the staff of Habbas & Associates were caring and showed concern for our welfare. It took a while for us to recover from those injuries, but with Mr. Le's assistance and with constant follow-ups with the insurance companies, we felt secure and less stressed. He answered all of our questions every time we had one, and that's why we are so happy and blessed to have Habbas and Associates on our side. I strongly recommend them.

    Feliciano & Maria Verzosa Hollister , CA 5 out of 5 stars

    Prior to working with Habbas & Associates, I had never worked with an attorney before, and I had never been in a car accident before. A friend of mine suggested I contact th...

    Prior to working with Habbas & Associates, I had never worked with an attorney before, and I had never been in a car accident before. A friend of mine suggested I contact them, so, of course, I am going to take a friend’s suggestions, especially since he had great things to say. I was extremely anxious and hesitant to contact an attorney, especially since I have never dealt with such a well-advertised firm as Habbas. 

    Laura Ajlouny worked with me through the whole process. From the first phone call, she completely reassured me of my decision and was extremely helpful, patient, and understanding with my claim. She was especially understanding of my anxiousness in dealing with an attorney for the first time. I am so happy to have had her as my attorney. 

    The experience I had with Laura was exceptional, and I will 100% refer her and Habbas to anyone seeking an attorney for an accident. She made the experience a great one.

    Juan A. 5 out of 5 stars

    I had retained the services of Habbas, Nasseri & Associates when my mother-in-law was hit by a car while she was on an evening walk in our neighborhood. She had to undergo s...

    I had retained the services of Habbas, Nasseri & Associates when my mother-in-law was hit by a car while she was on an evening walk in our neighborhood. She had to undergo surgery and was wheelchair-bound for some time. The case manager Hoang Le stopped by our home multiple times while my mother-in-law's mobility was restricted and was extremely helpful, responsive, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. He managed everything from getting reports from the Sheriff's office to managing the case paperwork and follow-up with the hospital and ambulance services. 

    Mr. Habbas himself called over the phone and explained all the legal options, after which, in due course of time, the case was settled. We are extremely happy with the seamless experience that they provided. All in all, you'd wish you never had to run into any injury situations, but if you do, then Habbas law firm is the place to go.

    Neil T. 5 out of 5 stars

    Omar Habbas and his team were very professional, efficient, and extremely effective. They fought hard to get the best results on my difficult case and always kept me up to date ...

    Omar Habbas and his team were very professional, efficient, and extremely effective. They fought hard to get the best results on my difficult case and always kept me up to date with every step in the entire process. I’m so glad I found this law firm and extremely happy with the results. Very highly recommend them to family and friends. If you or a loved one needs help, don’t hesitate to call them!

    AJ B. 5 out of 5 stars

    I’m highly impressed by their strong commitment to serving their clients and giving back to the community.

    Victoria M. 5 out of 5 stars

    In a little over a month, Habbas & Associates secured the best possible settlement 
I could ever get.

    Brian T. 5 out of 5 stars

    They helped me move forward with my case and get my sense of peace back.

    Tiffany H. 5 out of 5 stars

    I’m definitely going to recommend Habbas to all of my friends and family.

    Young J. 5 out of 5 stars

    Trusting my injury case with Habbas & Associates was the best decision ever! They made everything super easy and stress free.

    Nate 5 out of 5 stars

    I was in a car accident recently, and was referred to Habbas and Associates by my boss. I called and I spoke with Jessica who made everything so easy from the beginning. She kep...

    I was in a car accident recently, and was referred to Habbas and Associates by my boss. I called and I spoke with Jessica who made everything so easy from the beginning. She kept me informed throughout the entire process with phone calls and emails. I really appreciate that she gave me the option to pick up my settlement check at either one of their offices or have it mailed to me. If you’re looking for a personal injury attorney, you should call Habbas & Assoc. i’m definitely going to recommend Habbas to all of my friends and family!

    Lisa P. 5 out of 5 stars

    We weren’t planning to get a lawyer, but on top of my daughter’s injury, the situation was overwhelming. Laura Ajlouny at Habbas was sympathetic, experienced and sha...

    We weren’t planning to get a lawyer, but on top of my daughter’s injury, the situation was overwhelming. Laura Ajlouny at Habbas was sympathetic, experienced and sharp! She took care of handling both insurance companies, the police department, and getting all the info needed from the hospital. We ended up getting more compensation for my daughter’s distress than we would have on our own. And we only had to pay for legal fees out of the compensation we received. It was a no brainer. I wholeheartedly recommend Laura and her team.

    Sasha S. 5 out of 5 stars

    Great law firm they took my personal injury case on when other law firms would not and obtained a very good settlement. Very responsive throughout the process and addressed all ...

    Great law firm they took my personal injury case on when other law firms would not and obtained a very good settlement. Very responsive throughout the process and addressed all my concerns in a timely fashion. I give them my highest recommendation.

    Hasan A. 5 out of 5 stars

    I hired Ms. Ajlouny to represent me as a pedestrian who was struck by a motor vehicle in October 2025. One of the reasons I hired her was because she had over 30 years of experi...

    I hired Ms. Ajlouny to represent me as a pedestrian who was struck by a motor vehicle in October 2025. One of the reasons I hired her was because she had over 30 years of experience as a PI attorney. I have done over 30 years of paralegal work and I have learned that some of the best attorneys are those with the most experience. In a little over a month, Ms. Ajlouny secured the best possible settlement I could ever get. Statistics show that having a good PI attorney usually results in settlements that are 3 - 4 X greater than in pro per cases. I'd like to add that Ms. Ajlouny always kept me posted about my case and was very professional as well. Thank you and I hope my review helps.

    5 out of 5 stars

    Habbas & Associates were great as they helped me through an accident and injury case! We were dealing with Tesla insurance who were very slow but the Habbas attorneys stayed...

    Habbas & Associates were great as they helped me through an accident and injury case! We were dealing with Tesla insurance who were very slow but the Habbas attorneys stayed vigilant and I eventually got paid out. Thanks to them and I would definitely recommend using them for your accident/injury claims!!

    Abdullah A. 5 out of 5 stars

    If you've got into an accident and want a lawyer that actually cares for your well-being then you need to go to Habbas & Associates! I've had an absolutely wonderful experience ...

    If you've got into an accident and want a lawyer that actually cares for your well-being then you need to go to Habbas & Associates! I've had an absolutely wonderful experience with them and they were on the ball immediately with scheduling doctors appointment and gathering evidence of the accident. They maintained concerned about my health the whole time and always asked how I was doing during this process. They got me the absolute highest amount they could in my case and didn't let the at faults party defense lawyers talk them into taking substantially less amount. Thank you Habbas and Associates for all your hard work and care!

    Ian G. 5 out of 5 stars

    Laura Ajlouny and the Habbas & Associates team were supportive, attentive, and truly had my best interests at heart. They guided me through the process with care and profess...

    Laura Ajlouny and the Habbas & Associates team were supportive, attentive, and truly had my best interests at heart. They guided me through the process with care and professionalism—and delivered results. Highly recommend!

    Anonymous 5 out of 5 stars

    If you got into an accident and want a lawyer that actually cares for your well-being then you need to go to Habbas & Associates. 

    Ian G. 5 out of 5 stars

    We ended up getting more compensation for my daughter’s distress than we would have on our own.

    Sasha S. 5 out of 5 stars

    While you focus on healing, we take care of the rest.

    No Cost Consultation | Call 24/7

    Give Habbas & Associates a phone call at (408) 278-0480

    Whether you have questions about your case or are ready to get started, our San Jose injury attorneys are ready to help.

    This field is required.
    This field is required.
    This field is required.
    This field is required.
    Send Us a Message

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy(opens in a new tab) and Terms of Service(opens in a new tab) apply.

    Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (408) 278-0480.
    Contact Us