Compensation Education
Categories of compensation: an educational overview
General information about the types of losses that are sometimes factored into motorcycle accident claims. This page does not predict, estimate, or guarantee any outcome.
Medical Expenses
Costs tied to treatment: emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, medication, physical therapy, and assistive devices. Both past bills and reasonably anticipated future care are commonly considered.
Lost Income
Wages lost while unable to work, and in some cases reduced future earning capacity if an injury affects someone's ability to perform their job long-term.
Property Damage
Repair or replacement cost for the motorcycle, riding gear, and any other property damaged in the crash.
Rehabilitation Costs
Ongoing physical therapy, occupational therapy, in-home care, or equipment needed during recovery.
Pain and Suffering
Non-economic impact of an injury — physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. How this is calculated varies significantly by case and jurisdiction.
Out-of-Pocket Costs
Smaller costs that add up: mileage to medical appointments, parking, over-the-counter supplies, and similar expenses tied directly to the injury.
A note on comparative fault
California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule, meaning a person can sometimes recover compensation even if they were partially at fault, with the amount generally reduced in proportion to their share of fault. How fault is allocated depends on the specific facts of each case and is not something this site can determine.
For an assessment of your specific situation, consult a licensed California attorney. This page provides general education only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice.