California, especially Los Angeles, is known as a motorcycle rider’s paradise. With warm sunny weather around the year and scenic roads that feature mountains, beaches, and deserts, there’s something about this region that calls on riders to hit the road.
However, motorcycle riding isn’t all fun and games. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycle operators and riders are up to 28 times more likely to pass away in the event of a crash than those who operate cars and trucks.
Motorcycles feature minimal safety elements for riders. As such, even a minor collision on a bike can result in severe injuries and even death.
Motorcycle Crash Statistics
As the most populous state, California boasts the highest number of registered motorcycles, at over 800,000 and counting. In Los Angeles, you’re bound to encounter a rider on almost any street, road, or highway.
According to the NHTSA, at least 5,579 motorcyclists were killed in traffic accidents across the country in 2022. Between 2014 and 2018, California registered at least 2,665 motorcycle accidents and continues to average about 666 motorcycle deaths per year.
1. Single-Rider Accidents
Single-vehicle accidents occur when a motorcycle crashes without colliding with another vehicle.
These accidents are most often caused by speeding, over-braking, or turning too fast. Tragically, single-rider crashes may also result from DUI and are a leading cause of fatalities.
2. Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions occur whenever a vehicle slams into a motorcycle from behind.
These accidents can be caused by distracted driving on behalf of drivers, but they’re also known to result when a motorcyclist brakes abruptly while driving in areas of high congestion.
To avoid rear-end collisions, it’s essential to maintain a safe distance between your motorcycle and other vehicles, especially during Los Angeles rush hour.
3. Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions happen when two vehicles collide while traveling in opposite directions. These accidents are often caused by distracted or impaired driving or when a motorist drives in the wrong direction.
To avoid head-on collisions, maintain a safe distance between your motorcycle and other vehicles and always stay in your lane.
4. Lane-Change Accidents
Lane-changing accidents occur when a vehicle changes lanes and hits a motorcycle in the adjacent lane. These accidents usually result from motorists failing to see riders or misjudging a motorcycle’s speed.
5. Intersection Crashes
Intersection accidents occur when a motorcycle is hit by a vehicle at an intersection. These accidents are especially prevalent in four-way intersections, where cars may be prone to speed and run red lights.
6. Left-Turn Wrecks
Left-turn accidents occur whenever a vehicle turning left hits a motorcycle going straight or passing.
Motorcycles are the smallest vehicles on California roads. As such, many drivers may struggle to see riders, especially when traveling at high speeds or driving at night.
7. T-Bone Accidents
T-bone accidents occur when a vehicle hits a motorcycle from the side, forming a T-shape.
These accidents are often caused by drivers failing to yield to the motorcycle and are often deadly because riders can be thrown off their bikes, even at low speeds. When approaching an intersection, always come to a complete stop, and make sure you yield the right of way to cars whenever necessary.
Motorcycle Crashes in Los Angeles
You should avoid speeding and engage in defensive driving to prevent motorcycle accidents. Despite the limited safety gear available for exposed motorcyclists, it’s wise to wear protective clothing and a DOT-approved helmet.
Although accidents often happen when you least expect them, there’s plenty you can do to help lower your risk of injury next time you hop on your bike.
Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Law Firm in Los Angeles, CA
If you were injured in an accident in Los Angeles, CA or you lost a loved one and you need legal assistance, please contact us to schedule a free consultation. One of our Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyers at M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers will get in touch with you soon.
M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers – Los Angeles Office
4929 Wilshire Blvd Suite 960,
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(877) 300-4535
M&Y Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Office
350 S Figueroa St Suite 276
Los Angeles, CA 90071
(877) 751-8953