BELL GARDENS, California – A tragic motorcycle accident in California claimed the life of a rider on the evening of Thursday, November 21, 2024. The collision, involving a motorcycle and a car, occurred on the 710 Freeway near Clara Street, between the Florence Avenue and Firestone Boulevard exits, around 5:20 p.m., according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Paramedics from the Los Angeles County Fire Department transported the motorcyclist to a nearby hospital, where they were pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The exact circumstances of the collision remain unclear, and no detailed description of the four-door vehicle involved has been released. Authorities are withholding the victim’s identity until family members are notified.
The CHP continues to investigate the incident and is seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed the crash.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics: A Sobering Reality
Data from the National Center for Statistics and Analysis, part of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), highlights the heightened risks motorcyclists face on the road. In 2021, 5,932 motorcyclists were killed in traffic accidents, accounting for 14% of all roadway fatalities—the highest number recorded since data collection began in 1975.
Additionally, an estimated 82,686 motorcyclists were injured in 2021, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. Motorcyclists are nearly 24 times more likely to die per mile traveled compared to car occupants.
Compounding these risks are factors like riding without a valid motorcycle license and impaired driving. In 2021:
- 36% of motorcyclists in fatal crashes lacked a valid motorcycle license.
- 28% of motorcyclists in fatal crashes had elevated blood alcohol levels, rising to 43% in single-vehicle accidents.
A Call for Road Safety
The tragic death of the motorcyclist in Bell Gardens underscores the urgent need for caution and responsibility from both motorcyclists and vehicle drivers. Adhering to traffic laws, wearing proper protective gear, and avoiding driving under the influence can significantly reduce the likelihood of such devastating events.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the shared responsibility we all have in promoting safety on the roads. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victim.
