Effective January 1, 2025, California's Senate Bill 1107 (SB 1107) has doubled the minimum mandatory liability insurance requirements for all motorists operating in the state, including those on motorcycles. The new law mandates coverage of $30,000 for bodily injury per person, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage. All motorcyclists must now carry this increased coverage to legally ride on roads in Ventura and throughout California, and they are required to submit proof of adequate insurance to the DMV when registering their vehicles.
This legislative change arrives as safety concerns for motorcyclists persist, particularly regarding lane-splitting, which remains legal in California. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) emphasizes safe riding practices, advising riders to avoid lane-splitting alongside large vehicles like trucks or buses and to always consider road, weather, and lighting conditions. Lane-splitting is noted as a dangerous maneuver that can limit a rider's visibility to other motorists, leading to preventable accidents, especially in intersections.
Personal injury attorney Wayne Cohen, founder of Cohen Injury Law Group, has identified three of the most dangerous intersections in Ventura: Main Street and Santa Clara, Los Posas and Hueneme, and Harbor and Gonzalez. He underscores the importance of awareness, defensive riding, and proper insurance for motorcyclists, especially as accident numbers continue to rise in areas with high volumes of commuter and commercial traffic. The firm's insights highlight the critical need for enhanced financial protection in the event of accidents.
The implications of SB 1107 are significant for riders, the insurance industry, and public safety. For motorcyclists, the doubled coverage requirements mean higher premiums but also greater financial security in accidents, potentially reducing out-of-pocket costs and legal disputes. Insurers may see increased policy uptake and adjustments in risk assessments, while overall road safety could benefit from heightened accountability. This law reflects a broader trend toward strengthening liability standards to address rising accident rates and economic impacts, making it a pivotal development for California's transportation landscape. For more information on legal perspectives, visit https://coheninjurylaw.com.
