Starting January 1, 2025, California’s SB 1107 officially increased the state’s minimum auto and motorcycle liability insurance requirements from 15/30/5 to 30/60/15. For motorcyclists in San Francisco, this change may have a direct impact on insurance coverage, settlement negotiations, and how much compensation you may recover after a crash.
This guide explains what SB 1107 changed, why it matters for riders, and what steps you can take to protect yourself under the new law.
What Is SB 1107?
California’s SB 1107 was signed into law to address outdated insurance minimums that no longer reflected modern medical costs or repair expenses. Before 2025, California required only $15,000 for injury to one person, $30,000 for multiple people, and $5,000 for property damage. These numbers had not been updated in decades.
As of January 1, 2025, the required minimums are now:
- $30,000 for bodily injury to one person
- $60,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $15,000 for property damage
For riders in San Francisco, this increase may mean more money is available when the at-fault driver causes an accident, but it also highlights the continuing risks of being underinsured.
Why SB 1107 Matters for Motorcycle Accident Claims
Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe injuries. Hospital bills, surgery, rehab, and lost wages can easily surpass even the new higher limits. Here’s why the new law matters:
- More coverage in some cases: If the at-fault driver only carried the old minimums, your recovery would have capped at $15,000 per person. Now, you may access up to $30,000.
- Better leverage in negotiations: Insurance companies may be less able to claim that policy limits are too low to cover damages.
- Still not enough for serious crashes: Catastrophic injuries can quickly exceed $60,000. This is why UM/UIM coverage remains essential.
Protecting Yourself From Coverage Gaps
Even with SB 1107, riders must still plan for underinsurance. Here are three key areas to review:
1. Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)
If you are hit by a driver who carries only the new minimums or who has no insurance at all, UM/UIM coverage may help bridge the gap. Riders should request UM/UIM coverage equal to their liability limits.
2. Medical Payments Coverage
Med Pay can help cover immediate medical expenses regardless of fault. It is usually optional, but it can make a difference while you wait for a claim to settle.
3. Custom Motorcycle Parts and Gear
Many riders invest in aftermarket parts, safety gear, and electronics. Unless you specifically add accessory coverage, your insurer may not cover these items after a crash.
How SB 1107 Impacts Settlement Strategy
For personal injury lawyers and their clients, SB 1107 can influence settlement strategies in several ways:
- Policy-limit tenders: Injured riders may still face policy-limit payouts when damages exceed coverage. Documenting all medical expenses and lost income is critical.
- Stronger demand letters: Attorneys may frame demand letters around the new minimums to reflect higher starting points for negotiations.
- Early notice to UM/UIM carriers: If damages appear to exceed the at-fault driver’s policy, notifying your own UM/UIM insurer quickly can preserve additional recovery options.
Daylighting Law Also Affects Intersections
In addition to SB 1107, California’s AB 413 “Daylighting” law took effect on January 1, 2025. It prohibits cars from parking within 20 feet of crosswalks to improve visibility. For San Francisco riders, this change may improve safety at intersections and could also influence liability arguments in crash cases.
Enforcement will roll out gradually across California, but local cities like San Francisco are expected to begin ticketing and towing later in 2025.
Steps to Take After a San Francisco Motorcycle Accident
Even with updated laws, the steps you take after a crash can make or break your case:
- Seek immediate medical care and follow through on treatment.
- Document the scene with photos of the vehicles, road, and your injuries.
- Exchange information and file a DMV SR-1 report within 10 days if injuries or property damage exceed $750.
- Do not guess about fault when speaking with insurance companies.
- Consult a lawyer before signing any release or settlement agreement.
When to Call a Lawyer
If your accident involves serious injuries, disputed liability, or the potential for damages beyond the at-fault driver’s limits, contacting a San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer may protect your rights. Legal representation can help you evaluate coverage, preserve critical evidence, and negotiate effectively with insurers.
Internal Resources You May Find Helpful
- What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in San Francisco
- How California Motorcycle Laws Impact Your Accident Claim
- 5 Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in San Francisco and How to Avoid Them
FAQ
What are California’s minimum motorcycle liability limits in 2025?
They are now 30/60/15: $30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident, and $15,000 for property damage.
Do I still need UM/UIM coverage if the limits went up?
Yes. Catastrophic motorcycle injuries can still exceed minimums quickly. UM/UIM coverage may bridge the gap.
What is “Daylighting” and why does it matter to riders?
Daylighting under AB 413 keeps 20 feet of space clear at crosswalks to improve visibility. For riders, this means safer intersections and clearer liability arguments after accidents.
