In California, riding a motorcycle is more than a simple mode of transportation—it’s a way of life. California is a biker’s paradise with its beautiful roads, varied scenery, and pleasant climate. However it’s important for both riders and legislators to understand the current California motorcycle accident statistics.

Current California Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle accidents in California remain a significant concern despite ongoing safety efforts. According to Berkeley SafeTREC, motorcycle crashes continue to be a growing concern.

Motorcyclists make up a disproportionate number of all injured and killed vehicle occupants because they are more likely to be hurt in crashes. Motorcyclists accounted for 13.8% of all road fatalities in the United States in 2021. In contrast, only 0.6 percent of all Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) and 3.5 percent of all registered vehicles in the U.S. in 2021 were from motorcycles. These statistics also showed that:

  • -In California, 565 motorcyclists were killed in 2021.
  • -In 2021, 13 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities in California were motorcyclists.
  • -The amount of motorcycle crashes increased by 2.9% from 2020 to 2021.

 

It was also shown that the following counties ranked highest in fatalities in California motorcycle accidents:

  • -Los Angeles (120)
  • -San Bernardino (47)
  • -San Diego (41)
  • -Sacramento (36)
  • -Riverside (30)

 

The following counties ranked highest for serious injuries:

  • -Los Angeles (821)
  • -San Diego (319)
  • -San Bernardino (230)
  • -Riverside (200)
  • -Orange (172)

 

These additional statistics were also found:

  • -Driving at unsafe speeds was the leading cause of the crashes.
  • -Broadside collisions (where the front of one vehicle collides with the other) were the most common type of crash.
  • -Most crashes occurred on Saturday afternoons.
  • -Nearly 75% of the crashes occurred in urban areas.
  • -In motorcycle crashes in 2021, male victims accounted for 90% of all seriously injured victims and 95% of all fatally injured victims.

 

Factors That Contributed to Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents occur for a number of reasons, but there are a few that are more common than others. These included:

  • -Alcohol and drug use. Riding while impaired continues to be a serious problem. A rider’s judgment, coordination, and reaction times are all hampered by alcohol and drug use, which raises the risk of accidents.
  • -Road conditions. Uneven surfaces, potholes, and other debris can make riding a motorcycle more dangerous. For the safety of riders, road infrastructure must be maintained and improved.
  • -Weather. Although California has generally pleasant riding weather, unforeseen weather events, like rain or fog, can create hazardous riding conditions and increase the risk of accidents.
  • -Driver awareness. Collisions with other vehicles account for a significant portion of motorcycle accidents. These accidents frequently happen as a result of motorists misjudging the speed and distance of motorcycle riders or failing to detect them.
  • -Speeding and careless riding: Motorcycle accidents involving just one vehicle are frequently caused by riders traveling too fast and making abrupt turns. A rider’s chance of an accident increases when they push their boundaries on public roadways.

 

National Motorcycle Accident Statistics

While there is limited information on state-specific accident statistics, some of the national statistics provide insight into the cause and possible remedies for motorcycle accidents. Some of these include the following:

  • -Due to limited protections, motorcycle riders are nearly 22 times more likely to perish in a crash than those in cars.
  • -While rain can pose a threat to accidents by causing slippery roads, accidents rarely occur on them as it is a deterrent for motorcyclists to be on the road.
  • -One of the biggest risk factors for death or serious injury while riding a motorcycle is riding without a helmet.
  • -The most common time of day for motorcycle accidents in 2022 was between 6:00 and 9:00 pm.
  • -There is an increased chance that a motorcycle accident caused by alcohol intoxication will occur at night versus during the day.
  • -California is one of many states that require riders to wear helmets.
  • -Younger riders are more likely to die in a motorcycle accident than older riders.
  • -Over 33% of motorcycle accidents happen at intersections.
  • -Speeding is one of the largest factors that contribute to motorcycle fatalities, accounting for about ⅓ of fatal accidents.

 

FAQs

What State Has the Highest Number of Motorcycle Accidents?

The state with the highest number of motorcycle accidents varies each year. However, California frequently ranks high on this list. In 2022, California was accompanied at the top of the list by Florida, Texas, Arizona, Georgia, and North Carolina. Contributing factors include high traffic, busy highways, and a higher number of motorcyclists on the road.

What Are the Odds of Having a Motorcycle Accident?

The odds of having a motorcycle accident are significantly higher than for car drivers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that for every mile driven, motorcycle riders are significantly more likely to be at risk of dying in a collision than passengers in cars. Since many motorcycle accidents result in a major injury or death, it is critical to reduce these risks as much as possible through the use of safety equipment, rider education, and cautious riding techniques.

At What Speed Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen?

Surprisingly, most motorcycle accidents occur at relatively low speeds. These accidents occur more frequently in urban areas when traffic is heavier, and speeds are lower. Because motorcycle riders are less protected than car occupants, even at lower speeds, an impact can still be rather severe. This is why safety is important, even when riding at lower speeds.

What Are the Main Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in California?

The main causes of motorcycle accidents in California include driver awareness (including other drivers underestimating the distance of a motorcycle), speeding, reckless riding, alcohol and drug use, and poor road conditions. Car drivers often fail to notice motorcyclists or misjudge their speed, contributing to collisions. Driver error can also contribute to accidents, such as distracted driving.

Contact Kenneth M. Sigelman & Associates Today

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, a motorcycle accident attorney at Kenneth M. Sigelman & Associates can help you in the following legal process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and get started.