Motorcycle accident cases differ from standard vehicle accidents in one of two ways: liability or damages. When it comes to liability, motorcycle accidents often involve motorcycles splitting lanes and, at times, speeding. While the majority of motorcycle operators ride safely, incidents of lane-splitting are common in Los Angeles and California. Lane-splitting is legal, but it requires safe execution. Establishing whether someone was lane-splitting safely is a fact-specific argument, often complicated by evidence such as dashcam footage.

Motorcycle accident cases are also distinct due to the vulnerability of motorcycles and their operators. Without the protective exoskeleton of a vehicle, motorcycle riders are susceptible to injuries even in low-speed impacts. The absence of protective gear, such as helmets, can exacerbate injuries. In low-speed vehicle accidents involving motorcycles, injuries may be less severe, commonly referred to as “missed cases” or “minor injury soft tissue” cases. However, even a minor impact on a motorcycle or bicycle can result in significant injuries if the rider is not wearing adequate protective gear.

The analysis of motorcycle and bicycle accidents involves different considerations, including arguments related to comparative fault and damages. The speaker highlights the importance of getting involved early to help mitigate potential arguments around comparative fault from the beginning.