How Many Motorcycle Accidents Happen Per Year in California?

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles

Even though motorcycles make up only three percent of registered vehicles in the United States, they account for many traffic accidents. This is especially true in California, which ranks as one of the top 15 states with the largest number of motorcycle traffic accidents.

In an attempt to put a stop to this trend, the state has invested heavily in motorcycle safety courses taught by the California Highway Patrol in more than 100 locations across the state. Yet despite its best efforts, the state continues to see a rise in the number of motorcycle accidents each year.

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, don't put your case in the hands of attorneys who rarely handle such cases. Turn to an experienced personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles accident victims know and trust from Gutierrez Law.

Motorcycle accidents have become so common in California that they rarely make the news unless they have caused large traffic snarls. Considered to be at epidemic levels, a recent 30-day span in Southern California saw at least six serious motorcycle accidents take place. When you are involved in such an accident, your injuries will be very serious and likely include:

  • Burns from road rash
  • Broken bones
  • Contusions
  • Neck and back injuries
  • Concussions
  • Traumatic brain injuries

Even if you wore a helmet, medical bills would start to accumulate immediately. Do not hesitate to contact the best bike accident attorney at Gutierrez Law.

Motorcycle Accidents in California

Statistics show fatalities have more than doubled since 1997 within the Los Angeles metro area and neighboring counties. In most years, July is the deadliest month since summer weather is at its finest. Most people are getting on their bikes and riding down the open road. If you were enjoying a ride but are now home recuperating from your injuries, make every attempt possible to obtain maximum compensation by consulting with an experienced legal professional.

How To Stop This Trend

In their efforts to end this troubling and deadly trend, state officials from the CHP and other agencies have formed partnerships to try various new techniques. The most common include:

  • Safety awareness campaigns.
  • Increasing the number of rider safety courses statewide.
  • Even offering motorcyclists free fluorescent vests as a way to make them more visible while on the road.

These programs are all relatively new, and it's far too early to tell if they will have much of an impact on motorcycle fatalities. If you are now suffering physically and unable to work or enjoy life due to another person's negligence on the road, contact an attorney for life-threatening bike accidents to schedule a meeting.

Human Error

In almost all accidents involving motorcycles, human error plays a large role in why the accident took place. Along with many drivers of passenger vehicles failing to give motorcyclists the respect they deserve while sharing the road, many experts believe California's recent passage of a lawmaking lane-splitting law has contributed heavily to the increased number of accidents.

Lane-splitting, a term that describes motorcyclists squeezing between cars on the freeway, can create a more dangerous environment for motorcyclists and motor vehicles. We only advise motorcyclists with the proper training and experience to do this riding technique when safe and permitted on the road. If you are a motorcyclist who was struck by a motorist despite your handling your motorcycle in a safe manner, hold them responsible for their actions by speaking to a legal professional

Road Rage

In more and more cases involving motorcycle accidents, road rage seems to play a much more significant role. With the legalization of lane-splitting, many motorists become angry when someone cuts them off or utilizes riding maneuvers to get ahead of them on the highway. In other situations, drivers may be distracted while behind the wheel due to texting or talking on cell phones or may be impaired due to drugs or alcohol. Whatever the reason, serious collisions often result in severe and life-altering injuries. Motorcyclists have little if any protection when involved in a motor accident. Their injuries are almost always far more powerful than those of other drivers.

How to Stay Safe on the Road

According to data from the NHTSA, motorcycle helmets are nearly 70 percent effective in helping riders avoid traumatic brain injuries during their accidents. Riders increase their odds by almost 40 percent of not dying in these crashes by simply wearing a helmet. As added protective measures, California also requires new motorcyclists under 21 years old to complete a two-day CHP-certified training course, where they must pass both a written test and road skills test. Individuals over 21 who want to start riding a motorcycle are not required to take these classes.

If you have questions about liability and the accident itself, speak immediately with motorbike accident lawyers in Los Angeles that residents know will fight hard for them each step of the way.