Riding a motorcycle comes with a sense of freedom you just don’t get behind the wheel of a car. But that freedom also comes with real risks—especially on California roads. Every year, thousands of riders are injured or killed in motorcycle accidents, often due to the negligence of other drivers. And unlike drivers of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists don’t have the luxury of airbags, steel frames, or crumple zones. One reckless move by a distracted driver can mean life-altering consequences for someone on two wheels. We’ve helped many injured riders in San Bernardino pick up the pieces after a crash. We understand how devastating these accidents can be—not just physically, but emotionally and financially. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, knowing your legal rights is the first step toward reclaiming control. With an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in San Bernardino on your side, you can pursue the compensation you need to heal and move forward.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents aren’t always the rider’s fault. In fact, in many of the cases we handle, it’s the other driver who made a careless or dangerous decision. One of the most common culprits is distracted driving. Whether someone’s texting, adjusting their GPS, eating, or just not fully focused on the road, that moment of inattention can be catastrophic for a motorcyclist. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), over 9,000 injury crashes in California involved distracted drivers in 2021 alone—many of which involved vulnerable road users like motorcyclists.
Reckless or aggressive driving is another major cause of motorcycle crashes. This includes speeding, tailgating, or failing to yield—especially at intersections. The NHTSA reports that motorcyclists are about 28 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles, largely due to the lack of physical protection. Combine that with the fact that motorcycles are smaller and less visible, and the risks multiply when drivers act irresponsibly.
Poor road conditions also contribute heavily to motorcycle accidents in areas like San Bernardino and Riverside County. Potholes, loose gravel, oil slicks, and uneven pavement pose far greater threats to motorcycles than to cars. Even a minor road hazard that a car could glide over might cause a biker to lose control or crash.
And then there’s lane splitting, which is legal in California under Vehicle Code Section 21658.1, provided it’s done safely. While California is the only U.S. state to formally allow lane splitting, it remains controversial. When motorcyclists ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, they rely heavily on the attentiveness of surrounding drivers. Unfortunately, when drivers don’t check mirrors or suddenly switch lanes without signaling, it can result in devastating side-swipe or merging collisions.
Finally, we cannot ignore the role of drunk or impaired driving. According to the California OTS, in 2021, nearly 1,000 people were killed in alcohol-involved crashes statewide. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and reduced awareness, making it far less likely they’ll see or react appropriately to a nearby motorcyclist. These types of accidents are not only tragic—they’re entirely preventable.
Injuries and Damages in Motorcycle Accidents
The injuries from a motorcycle crash can be severe and life-changing. We’ve worked with clients who’ve suffered broken bones, spinal injuries, road rash, internal bleeding, and even traumatic brain injuries. Some spend weeks or months in the hospital. Others face a lifetime of physical therapy, surgeries, or permanent disability. And while some injuries are visible, others—like chronic pain or psychological trauma—can linger long after the wounds have healed.
Beyond the physical toll, the financial burden can be crushing. Emergency room visits, surgeries, rehab, and ongoing care are expensive. Then there’s the time off work, or worse, the inability to return to work at all. On top of that, your bike may be totaled, leaving you with property damage expenses to deal with.
We also can’t ignore the emotional trauma. Many riders we’ve represented struggle with anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress after an accident. Some are too afraid to ever get back on a motorcycle. These invisible wounds are just as valid, and we fight to make sure they’re recognized in your claim.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
We know how disorienting and frightening a motorcycle crash can be, but taking the right steps immediately afterward can make a huge difference in your recovery—both medically and legally.
First and foremost, get medical attention, even if you think you’re okay. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries don’t show symptoms right away. A medical evaluation not only protects your health but also documents your injuries.
Next, call the police and file an official report. This report can become a crucial piece of evidence later on. If you’re able, gather evidence at the scene: photos of the vehicles, the road, your injuries, and any visible damages. Talk to witnesses and get their contact information.
One of the biggest mistakes we see is victims talking to insurance companies too soon. Adjusters may seem friendly, but their job is to pay you as little as possible. Do not admit fault, downplay your injuries, or give a recorded statement without legal advice.
Finally, and most importantly, contact a motorcycle accident attorney. The sooner we can get involved, the better we can protect your rights and build a strong case for you.
How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Help You?
As experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in San Bernardino, we understand how complex these cases can be. Our job is to take that weight off your shoulders so you can focus on what really matters—your recovery. We begin by thoroughly investigating the accident, identifying all responsible parties, and gathering evidence like police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and medical records.
We then handle all communication with insurance companies, making sure your claim isn’t minimized or denied. Insurance companies are skilled at shifting blame or offering lowball settlements—but we know their tactics, and we don’t back down.
If your case needs to go to court, we’ll be by your side every step of the way. We file all legal paperwork, meet all deadlines, and present a compelling case to maximize your compensation. Whether you’re seeking damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, or long-term disability, we fight to make sure you receive every dollar you deserve.
Choosing The Law Office of Pablo G Pinasco
We know that choosing an attorney is a big decision—especially when you’re dealing with the pain and confusion that follow a motorcycle crash. We don’t just see you as a case number. We take a personalized, hands-on approach with every client. From day one, you’ll work directly with a dedicated attorney who understands your situation, answers your questions, and fights hard for your rights.
With years of experience representing motorcycle accident victims in San Bernardino, we’ve built a reputation for honest, aggressive advocacy. We know the courts, we know the laws, and most importantly, we know how to win. Our track record of successful settlements and verdicts speaks for itself.
We also offer a free consultation, so there’s no risk in reaching out. And since we work on a contingency fee basis, you don’t pay a dime unless we recover compensation for you. No upfront fees. No hidden costs. Just real legal help when you need it most.
Conclusion
If you’ve been injured in an accident, The Law Office of Pablo G Pinasco is here to help. We provide dedicated legal representation for a wide range of personal injury cases, including car accidents, motorcycle accidents, truck accidents, and pedestrian accidents. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait—every day that passes, critical evidence can be lost, memories can fade, and insurance companies will begin working to protect their bottom line. Let us handle the legal fight while you focus on healing. Contact The Law Office of Pablo G Pinasco today for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re here to listen, guide you through the process, and help you get your life back on track.