According to data from the California Highway Patrol, there were 4,734 motorcycle fatalities in California in 2019, resulting in 4,011 injuries to motorcyclists and 455 deaths. In 2020, there were 4,159 motorcycle accidents in the state, resulting in 3,657 injuries and 397 deaths.
These numbers represent a significant decrease in the number of crashes between motorcyclist and other vehicles and fatalities from the previous years, likely due to the COVID-19 pandemic and related restrictions on travel and gatherings. However, motorcycle accidents are still a major problem in California and horrifying predictions are estimated for 2023. It is important for riders to always be vigilant and follow safe riding practices to reduce the risk of an accident.
How Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
Accidents can happen at any time and for a variety of reasons such as failing to yield the right way, speeding, or driving under the influence (DUI). It is important for riders to be aware of their surroundings and to operate their vehicles safely to avoid these situations.
There are many ways in which single-vehicle accidents can occur in California. Some of the most common causes of traffic accidents involving motorcycles include:
Collisions with other vehicles
Motor vehicles can be vulnerable to collisions with other vehicles, especially if the other driver has a loss of attention or fails to yield the right of way.
Lane splitting
Riding between lanes in two-lane roads, on the wrong lane of stopped or slow-moving traffic, is illegal in California but is still a common cause of motor vehicle accidents.
Single-vehicle crashes
A motorcycle driver can crash due to factors such as hazardous road conditions, inclement weather, or mechanical problems.
Intersection accidents
Motorcycles are at a higher risk of being involved in an accident at intersections, where there is a greater likelihood of collisions with other vehicles.
Drunk or impaired driving
Alcohol involvement and drug use can impair a motorcycle rider’s ability to operate their vehicle safely, leading to an increased risk of an accident. Driving under the influence of alcohol not only risk your life but others.
Distracted driving
Such as texting or using a phone while behind the wheel, is a major cause of motorcycle accidents in California.
Lack of experience
Inexperienced motorcycle riders may not have the skills or knowledge to safely operate their vehicle, leading to an increased risk of an accident.
Motorcycle riders should always be aware and follow safe riding practices to reduce the risk of an accident. Also, they need to be wary of the potential hazards and take extra precautions to stay safe while on the road.
Wearing protective gear, such as a helmet and protective clothing, can also help to reduce the severity of injuries in the event of an accident. And it is also necessary to call an experienced attorney in motorcycle accidents that can provide legal advice and help you to understand your legal rights as a victim.
Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
In California, motorcycle accidents can happen anywhere. However, there are certain areas where accidents are more likely to occur. Some of the most common locations for motorcycle accidents in California include:
- Urban areas: Motorcycle accidents are more common in urban areas, where there is a higher volume of traffic and a greater risk of collisions with other vehicles.
- Intersections: Intersections are a common location for motorcycle accidents, as there is a higher risk of collisions with other vehicles when turning or crossing traffic.
- Freeways: Freeways can be particularly dangerous for motorcycle riders due to the high speeds at which vehicles are traveling.
- Rural roads: Rural roads may have a higher risk of motorcycle accidents due to factors such as narrow lanes, winding roads, and an increased likelihood of wildlife crossing the road.
- Ride at night: Motorcycle accidents are more likely to occur at night due to poor visibility of blind spots and the higher risk of drunk or reckless driving.
Where do motorcycles collide most often with other vehicles?
Intersections are often the location where accident motorcycle occur, as they can be particularly dangerous for this kind of vehicle due to their size. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, making it more difficult for other drivers to see them. This can be especially true at intersections, where there are often many other vehicles present and the potential for multiple points of conflict is higher.
It is important for both motorcycle riders and other drivers to pay attention, take a safe distance from other vehicles and take extra care of their surroundings at intersections in order to help to prevent dangerous situations. Using hand signals and eye contact to communicate their intentions can be helpful for motorcycle riders at intersections as well.
How Painful Is A Motorcycle Accident?
Injuries in motorcycle crashes can be very painful and have serious to the crash victim’s life. Some common injuries from motorcycle accident include:
Road rash
This is a type of painful skin damage that occurs when the skin is against dangerous road conditions or pavement. It can be extremely painful and require medical treatment, sometimes it may also need plastic or reconstructive surgery.
Broken bones
Motorcycle crash injuries can result in broken bones, which can be extremely painful and require surgery to repair the damage.
Head injuries
Wearing a helmet can help to reduce the risk of head injuries, but even if you were protected these severe injuries still may happen to you. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and brain damage caused by motorcycle accidents can be life-threatening.
Spinal cord injuries
These types of injuries can result in paralysis and can have long-term effects on a person’s mobility and quality of life.
Soft tissue injuries
These injuries can occur when the body is thrown from the motorcycle and can include injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Soft tissue injuries can be very painful and may require physical therapy to recover.
Internal injuries
Some kinds of motorcycle accidents can also result in damage to organs or internal bleeding. These types of injuries can be serious and may require surgery to repair the damage. Sometimes these injuries can be mortal and result in wrongful death.
These types of accidents can be very excruciating and result in serious injuries that can have long-term effects on a person’s health and well-being. To reduce and avoid being involved in motorcycle accidents, it is important for riders to protect themselves and always ride safely.
What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to seek medical attention as a first step and make sure your injuries can be treated as soon as possible. As a second step, it is important to seek legal representation.
A professional law firm by your side in these difficult times can be important for a number of reasons:
Insurance issues: Insurance companies and aggressive insurance adjusters may try to minimize the amount of money on an insurance claim, which can be frustrating and overwhelming for the accident victim. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the insurance process and deal with them on your behalf to ensure you receive the full fair compensation for accident to which you are entitled.
Liability: In some cases, it may not be clear who is at fault for the accident. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you determine liability and gather the evidence necessary to build a strong case.
Help with negotiations: An award-winning attorney can help you negotiate a fair settlement and resolution of your case.
As a professional and dedicated award-winning law firm, Motorcyclist Attorney can provide you with the support and guidance you need to navigate the legal process and ensure your legal rights are respected.
We have a track record of success in helping clients to obtain the maximum compensation for their cases and we are here to help 24/7. We work by a no-fee guarantee, which means you don’t need to pay us until we win your case.Trust us! We speak Spanish, English, and Filipino. Call us now.
