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Last Modified on Nov 28, 2025
Motorcycles are inherently dangerous in several ways, even for the most experienced and cautious riders. But what are the most common motorcycle accident injuries in California? The reality is that motorcycles offer little physical protection in a crash, so a rider can be injured from the initial impact with another vehicle, followed by the secondary effects of hitting the ground.
What Are the Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in California?
Any vehicle accident can potentially cause serious injuries, but this risk is much greater when a motorcycle is involved. Even if a rider wears a high-quality helmet and sturdy protective gear, a motorcycle does not provide any physical protection from a crash. Motorcycles lack the safety features found in most enclosed passenger vehicles, such as safety belts, airbags, and crash-absorbing vehicle frames.
The National Safety Council reported that in 2023, motorcycles accounted for only about 3% of all registered vehicles in the US, yet motorcyclists accounted for nearly 16% of all vehicle accident fatalities. A total of 6,335 motorcyclists died, and 82,564 were injured in accidents during 2023. In California, the Office of Traffic Safety reported a total of 583 motorcyclist deaths throughout the state in 2023.
Some of the most commonly reported injuries from motorcycle accidents in California include:
- Broken bones, some of which require surgical correction, such as placement of steel plates and rods.
- Traumatic brain injuries, which have a high chance of causing permanent complications and are a top-reported cause of fatal motorcycle accident injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries, which can potentially result in permanent paralysis. The location of the injury on the spine will determine the scope and severity of its effects.
- Facial and dental injuries. Even a high-quality helmet may not fully protect against this type of damage. These injuries can be painful, debilitating, and require extensive medical treatment.
- Damage to internal organs.
- “Road rash,” or friction burns caused by sliding on road surfaces after falling from a bike at high speed.
In addition to these serious injuries, it is also common for motorcycle accident victims to suffer multiple minor cuts, scrapes, bruises, and other injuries. It’s also possible for a motorcyclist to emerge from an accident appearing to have only suffered minor injuries, only for them to discover serious internal damage.
Ultimately, these accidents have a very high chance of resulting in injuries, some of which could be catastrophic or fatal. If you experience a motorcycle accident, it is crucial to know what to do in the immediate aftermath. If another party is responsible for causing the accident, you will have the right to pursue accountability and claim compensation for your damages, but you will need an attorney’s help to do so.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in California
After a motorcycle accident or any other vehicle accident in California, the parties involved are required to report the collision to 911 and remain at the scene of the crash until first responders arrive. Leaving the scene of an accident prematurely could result in a hit-and-run charge. If you are seriously hurt, do not move and risk worsening your injuries. If you can do so safely, it’s a good idea to document what you can at the accident scene while you wait for the police.
Most motorcycle accident victims will require transportation to the nearest hospital. However, if you are well enough to move around on your own, you should still seek medical care immediately, even if you think you only suffered minor injuries. Some internal injuries do not cause immediate symptoms, so it’s crucial to rule out any such issues right away. After receiving medical care, you should consult a motorcycle accident lawyer about your legal options.
If another party caused your accident, you have the right to pursue compensation for your damages. This could require filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s auto insurance carrier or filing a personal injury suit. When you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer to assist you with your case, you have a much better chance of maximizing your recovery. Reach out to Gonzales Law Offices at your first opportunity to learn how we can help with your case.
FAQs
How Do You Prove Fault for a Motorcycle Accident in California?
Proving fault for a motorcycle accident in California will require several types of evidence that an experienced attorney can secure on your behalf. You may need vehicle computer data, testimony from any eyewitnesses who witnessed the accident firsthand, drivers’ cell phone records, and, if available, traffic camera footage. If you believe another driver caused the accident, you must establish fault before you can claim compensation.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in California?
A few of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in California include driver negligence, such as speeding, moving violations, and distracted driving. It is also possible for these accidents to result from intoxicated driving, aggressive driving, and unsafe practices such as lane splitting.
What Damages Can I Claim in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
In a motorcycle accident case, the damages you can claim include any economic losses you suffered because of the defendant’s negligence or misconduct, such as vehicle repair costs, medical bills, lost wages, and lost future earning capacity. Additionally, you have the right to claim pain and suffering compensation in a personal injury case. Consult an attorney who can help you determine the optimal way to maximize your recovery.
Why Should I Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
You should hire a motorcycle accident lawyer to have the greatest possible chance of success with your recovery efforts. A skilled local attorney can gather the evidence you need to prove fault for the accident, accurately calculate your total claimable damages, and guide you through the process of recovering compensation with an auto insurance claim and/or personal injury case. You’re more likely to reach a positive conclusion to your case with an attorney’s help.
Reach Out to a Motorcycle Accident Law Firm
The team at Gonzales Law Offices can provide compassionate legal counsel when you need it most after a motorcycle accident in California. We have successfully resolved many accident cases for past clients and will apply this experience to your case. We take personal injury cases on a contingency basis, so there are no fees unless we win. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer and learn how we can help.
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