Orange County Accident Attorney on Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Southern California

Orange County accident Attorney James Johnson is reminding Southern California drivers to stay alert as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month highlights the growing dangers riders face on California roads and highways during the warmer months of the year.

As more motorcycles return to local streets and freeways, the SoCal-based accident attorney said many serious and fatal crashes occur because drivers fail to notice motorcyclists while changing lanes, turning at intersections, or merging into traffic. Because riders have far less protection than occupants of passenger vehicles, even a momentary lapse in attention can lead to catastrophic injuries.

“There is a much higher rate for fatality and serious injury accidents among motorcyclists compared to those who drive other vehicles,” said Johnson, who is the founder of Johnson Attorneys Group. “In fact, the rate is 28 times higher based on recent statistics.”

Federal traffic data shows thousands of motorcyclists lose their lives each year in crashes, both across the United States and in California, the latter which ranks higher than most states for motorcycle fatalities. This data includes all types of motorcycles, whether they have two or three wheels, they are off-road motorcycles, mopeds, motor scooters, minibikes, or smaller pocket bikes.

Indeed, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports 6,335 motorcyclists died nationwide in 2023, roughly 15% of
all fatal collisions on highways that year. Meanwhile, here in California, 538 motorcyclist lost their lives in 2023. Furthermore, there were also 82,564 injured motorcyclists reported in 2023.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Many motorcycle crashes involve preventable driver errors, including:

• Unsafe lane changes
• Failure to check blind spots
• Distracted driving
• Following motorcycles too closely
• Left-turn collisions at intersections
• Misjudging a motorcycle’s speed or distance

Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars and trucks, Orange County drivers should remain alert and carefully scan the roadway before making maneuvers.

Safety Tips for Drivers

Motorists can help reduce motorcycle crashes by:

• Checking mirrors and blind spots before merging or changing lanes
• Leaving additional following distance behind motorcycles
• Avoiding distractions such as texting while driving
• Using extra caution at intersections
• Waiting to confirm a rider is actually turning before proceeding

Sharing the road responsibly can significantly lower the risk of catastrophic injuries.

Safety Recommendations for Motorcyclists

Riders are also encouraged to take proactive safety measures, including:

• Wear a DOT-approved helmet. Experts recommend: Scorpion EXO-R1 Air, Bell Qualifier, Schuberth C5
• Using eye protection and protective riding gear
• Adding reflective materials to improve visibility
• Keeping headlights on during both day and night
• Riding defensively and anticipating driver mistakes
• Driving within speed limits

Protective clothing such as gloves, boots, jackets, and reinforced pants may help reduce injury severity during a collision.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Call 1-800-208-3538

Motorcycle crashes often result in severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and road rash. In many cases, injured riders face mounting medical bills, lost wages, and lengthy recovery periods.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a negligent driver, it is important to understand your legal rights. An experienced California personal injury attorney can help investigate the collision, preserve evidence, and pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Johnson Attorneys Group attorney James Johnson advocates for injured accident victims in Orange County and throughout California and understands the unique challenges motorcycle riders face after a serious collision. Request a free case evaluation at 1-800-208-3538.