Originally Posted by
Spacemunky
People learn by being punished, not by getting off the hook with ease. Litigate for damages and with any luck the guy will get stuck with the deductable from hell........he will check his mirrors after that.
In California, I seriously doubt the driver would EVER be called to court on this. It would be the attorneys for the insurance company. They driver will only feel the pain when his rates go up next year, which will happen whether the OP sues or not.
I agree that the body should be made whole, and the bike restored to the pre-crash condition. Additionally, he should ask for compensation for all lost work, time/travel in fixing things, etc. Not in excess, but at least what's fair.