What Are The Most Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents In California

Kristy BandY • December 7, 2022

Motorcycle riding is an exciting and popular sport, but unfortunately every time you take your bike out for a cruise, you are putting yourself at risk of severe injuries or even death. According to the NHTSA, 474 motorcyclists died in motorcycle-related accidents on California roads in 2019. No matter if you ride your motorcycle to work on California’s freeways every day or save the bike for occasional scenic cruises, you should always have at least a basic understanding of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Knowing what is most likely to cause a motorcycle safety accident will help you hone your reflexes, know what to watch for, and have a plan for how to react in dangerous situations that may result in a motorcycle accident. Read on to learn more about some common causes of motorcycle accidents that we often see here at the Law Office of Ball & Yorke.


California Motorcycle Accident Causes


Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents that we unfortunately often see result in severe injuries are listed below:

  • Intoxication: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a leading source of motorcycle accidents, due to the fact that these substances have a profound and negative impact on an individual’s vision, judgment, and reaction time. People who decide to get behind the wheel while intoxicated on any substances pose a huge risk to other drivers, pedestrians, and motorcyclists on the road- particularly the latter since motorcyclists are less noticeable due to their smaller size.
  • Head-On Vehicle Collisions: Frontal collisions, which is when two vehicles coming from opposite directions crash, are the cause of most motorcycle accident fatalities. Frontal collisions often involve vehicles crashing into motorcycles at intersections, typically when a driver runs a red light. The outcome can range from mild whiplash to severe, debilitating injuries or even death of one or both parties involved, depending on the angle of the crash and the speed of the vehicles
  • Lane Splitting: Lane splitting happens when motorcyclists drive between rows of moving or stopped vehicles, and was legalized in California in 2017 while remaining illegal in other parts of the country. Some drivers think that lane splitting reduces the risk of rear-end collisions, but there are further risks created by lane splitting:
  • Limited space where motorcyclists can maneuver
  • The proximity of motorcycles to larger vehicles
  • Car and truck drivers can’t anticipate motorcyclists to overtake them in slowed or stopped traffic
  • Hazards on the road: Road hazards such as potholes, uneven road surfaces, asphalt cracks, black ice, and wet pavement may pose a greater risk to lighter vehicles such as motorcycles compared to cars and trucks. The city, municipality, or state could be held liable for restitution in a personal injury case if the accident was due to a lack of road maintenance.


Contact Us Today


If you are the victim of a motorcycle accident, the experienced motorcycle accident attorneys here at the Law Office of Ball & Yorke can help. Our personal injury lawyers will evaluate your case, help you decide on the best course of action, and do everything possible to help you get the compensation you deserve. Call the
Law Office of Ball & Yorke to schedule a consultation today.

February 20, 2025
Learn how to prove liability in a California slip and fall case. Discover key legal elements, evidence needed, and how Law Office of Ball & Yorke can help you seek compensation for your injuries.
By Kristy BandY February 11, 2025
Here’s a guide to liability and insurance claims regarding California wildfires. Call the Law Office of Ball & Yorke today at 805-642-5177
January 30, 2025
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?
By Kristy BandY January 8, 2025
Here’s a basic guide to understanding liability in California wildfire cases. Call the Law Office of Ball & Yorke to learn more today at 805-642-5177
December 19, 2024
If you or a loved one has been involved in a dog bite incident in Ventura, California, it’s important to take immediate steps to protect your health and preserve your legal rights. Dog bite injuries can lead to severe physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Here’s what you need to do after an attack to ensure you receive the care and compensation you deserve. 1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately The first and most important step following a dog bite is to seek medical attention, even if the injury seems minor. Dog bites can lead to infections or more serious complications, including rabies. Ensure your injuries are properly assessed and documented by a medical professional. 2. Report the Incident to Animal Control In Ventura, reporting any dog bite to local authorities, such as animal control, is important. This helps ensure that the dog is assessed for potential rabies and prevents future attacks. Reporting the incident also creates an official record, which could be valuable for any future legal action. 3. Gather Information at the Scene If possible, collect as much information as you can at the scene of the incident. Obtain the dog owner's contact details, as well as information about the dog’s vaccination history. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information as well. This information can be crucial in building your case. 4. Document Your Injuries Take photos of your injuries and any property damage that resulted from the dog bite. Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, expenses, and any time off work due to the incident. This documentation will be valuable in proving the extent of your injuries and the impact on your life. 5. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney If you’ve suffered injuries from a dog bite, it’s essential to contact a personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you understand your legal rights, determine liability, and pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. They will also guide you through the process of filing a claim against the responsible party. Taking the right steps after a dog bite incident in Ventura is vital for your health and legal case. By seeking medical attention, reporting the attack, gathering information, documenting your injuries, and contacting an attorney, you can protect your health and improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation. At the Law Office of Ball & Yorke, we are committed to helping victims of dog bite attacks seek justice and recover the compensation they deserve.
By Kristy BandY November 19, 2024
Here are the basic things you should know about a California personal injury case. Call the Law Office of Ball & Yorke today at 805-642-5177
A bicycle is parked on a dirt road in the woods.
November 13, 2024
How is Compensation Calculated in a California Bicycle Accident?
October 29, 2024
What is the Statute of Limitations for a Motorcycle Accident in California?
A law image used to represent workplace discrimination.
August 30, 2024
Understanding Workplace Discrimination in California
More Posts
Share by: