California has more motorcycles on the road than any other state in the country. While the freedom of riding is unmatched, the risks are significant. Motorcyclists are far more vulnerable to serious injuries and fatalities than drivers of passenger vehicles. Understanding the numbers helps riders and drivers alike take safety more seriously.

Here are 15 motorcycle accident statistics in California for 2025 that reveal just how dangerous the roads can be for riders.

General Motorcycle Accident Data

1. California has over 800,000 registered motorcycles, the highest in the U.S. (Source: https://www.ots.ca.gov/)
2. On average, 500 motorcyclists die every year in California crashes.
3. Motorcycles account for 14% of all traffic fatalities, despite being less than 4% of registered vehicles.
4. The fatality rate per mile traveled is 28 times higher for motorcyclists than passenger car drivers.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

5. Speeding contributes to nearly 30% of fatal motorcycle crashes in California.
6. Distracted drivers are involved in almost 40% of multi-vehicle motorcycle accidents.
7. Alcohol impairment plays a role in about 25% of fatal motorcycle collisions. (Reference: https://www.nhtsa.gov/)
8. Lane-splitting, while legal, is linked to 15% of motorcycle accidents, often due to drivers failing to check blind spots.

Injuries and Risks

9. Over 80% of reported motorcycle crashes result in injuries or death.
10. Head injuries are the most common severe injury among motorcyclists, especially when helmets are not worn.
11. Riders without helmets are 3 times more likely to suffer brain trauma in an accident. (See helmet impact data: https://www.cdc.gov/)
12. Lower-extremity injuries (legs and feet) are the most frequently treated non-fatal injuries from motorcycle crashes.

Location and Timing

13. The majority of motorcycle accidents occur in urban areas, especially Los Angeles, San Diego, and the Bay Area.
14. Nearly half of all motorcycle fatalities happen on weekends, with Saturday nights being the riskiest.
15. Highways like the I-5, I-405, and US-101 are among the deadliest routes for California motorcyclists.

Final Thoughts

The numbers are sobering: motorcyclists in California face higher risks on the road than almost any other group of drivers. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, legal representation is critical to secure fair compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and long-term recovery. At Hillstone Law, our attorneys understand the unique challenges motorcycle accident victims face and we fight to protect your rights.