There were approximately 65 fatal accidents per 100,000 registered vehicles across California in 2024. However, the injury rate skyrockets to 864 for motorcycle accident injuries. If you have been critically injured or someone you love was killed in a motorcycle wreck, you may have the right to take legal action against those responsible.
Fortunately, with help from a high-powered California motorcycle accident lawyer from Text Kevin Accident Attorneys, you can demand the compensation you are entitled to. Contact our team as soon as today to schedule a free consultation and get our 10+ years of trial experience working for you and your family.
California Motorcycle Accident Statistics
It may surprise you to learn that motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to suffer fatal injuries in a collision according to the 2020 Traffic Safety Facts report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). They are also four times more likely to suffer serious injuries. California has the second-highest rate of motorcycle accidents in the entire country per the National Safety Council (NSC), and the counties with the most serious motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Los Angeles
- Orange
- San Bernardino
- San Diego
- Riverside
Over 50% of all motorcycle accidents in the United States involved speeding according to the NHTSA’s Traffic Safety Facts for 2021. Driver negligence continues to be one of the most common causes of motorcycle wrecks across the country. Some examples of ways other drivers cause motorcycle accidents include:
- Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol
- Unlawful turns
- Failure to yield to the right-of-way or to stop
- Distracted driving
- Driving while fatigued
- Making unsafe lane changes
Risk Factors for Motorcycle Accidents
There are countless risk factors for motorcycle accidents. If you can recognize these risk factors, you may be able to reduce the likelihood of a collision. Notable risk factors that could increase your chances of a catastrophic or fatal motorcycle accident injury include:
- Alcohol use
- Car doors
- Dangerous road conditions
- Distracted driving
- Emotional riding demands
- Failure to follow traffic laws
- Failure to use a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet
- Head-on collisions
- Underestimating high-performance motorcycle capabilities
- Impaired driving
- Inclement weather
- Inexperienced riders
- Lane splitting
- Motorcycle defects
- Physical riding demands
- Road safety hazards
- Speeding
- Sudden stops
Visual suggestions: Charts showing accident rates over time
How to Reduce the Risk of a Motorcycle Wreck
There is nothing you can do to make other drivers operate their vehicles safely. However, you can take steps to protect yourself and ensure you are driving as safely as possible. In addition to staying alert and driving defensively, you should also always obey traffic rules and regulations. Always be prepared to react quickly and never assume that other drivers can see you. Maintain a safe following distance at all times and be sure to check your blind spots frequently.
If you are driving in poor weather conditions, exercise extreme caution. Remember, the speed limit is designed for ideal weather conditions, so slow down if you need to drive in inclement weather. It is crucial to wear the appropriate protective gear as well. Not only should you be wearing strong boots, a riding jacket, long pants, and gloves, but you should also have a motorcycle helmet. According to California Vehicle Code 27803, motorcyclists in California are legally required to wear DOT-approved helmets. You can be placed on probation and be ordered to pay fines of up to $250 if you do not wear a motorcycle helmet.
Your ability to pursue a personal injury lawsuit could be affected. California follows pure comparative negligence laws, so even if the defense blames you for causing your injuries because you did not wear a motorcycle helmet, you should still receive a settlement. However, according to California Civil Code 1714, your percentage of blame will be deducted from your award. For example, if the judge decides you are 10% at fault for your injuries, you will only be entitled to 90% of your motorcycle accident award.
Additionally, do not forget to inspect your motorcycle before taking it out for a ride. You should check the lights, tire pressure, and brake function, especially if you are planning an all-day road trip.
Get Help From a Premier Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in CA Today
There is nothing you can do to control how other motorists on the roadways drive. However, by being aware of your surroundings and prioritizing motorcycle safety, you may be able to reduce your risk of injury or death and potentially avoid life-threatening or fatal injuries.
If you or someone you love was severely injured in a motorcycle wreck, a top-rated California car accident lawyer from Text Kevin Accident Attorneys may be able to help you navigate the claims process. Discuss your legal options extensively when you contact our office to request a free, no-obligation consultation. Reach us by phone or through our online contact form to get started on your case as soon as today.
