- Cohen & Marzban - / - Blog - /blog - California Motorcycle Accident Statistics and Trends 2025–2026 lazy # California Motorcycle Accident Statistics and Trends 2025–2026 - Published: - July 16, 2024 ## Table of Contents California has a rich history as a hub for motorcycling — it boasts the highest number of motorcyclists of any state, with over [936,000 registered bikes](https://www.iihs.org/api/datastoredocument/bibliography/2288). However, this popularity comes with a stark reality: California consistently ranks among the states with the highest number of motorcycle-related deaths, with [over 10%](https://safetrec.berkeley.edu/2024-safetrec-traffic-safety-facts-motorcycle-safety) of all U.S. motorcyclist fatalities. Our experienced [motorcycle accident lawyers](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/practice-areas/motorcycle-accidents) at Cohen & Marzban delve into the latest California motorcycle accident statistics, shedding light on the realities riders confront. ## California Motorcycle Accidents Overview Motorcycle accidents in Los Angeles, California, are a serious concern for the city. The sobering statistics reveal a significant number of fatal accidents involving motorcycles. According to the [National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)](https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813732), 6,335 motorcyclists were killed nationwide in 2023, including 583 in California. If you're wondering how many motorcycle deaths per year in California occur, this figure reflects a slight decrease from 598 in 2022, though national fatalities have increased 13.5% since 2020. Motorcyclists accounted for 15% of all U.S. traffic fatalities in 2023, despite making up only a small share of registered vehicles. In California, the motorcycle fatality rate was 66.57 per 100,000 registered motorcycles in 2023, down slightly from 68.05 the year before. **Here are some statistics about fatal crashes involving motorcycles:** - 36% of motorcycle riders in fatal crashes were speeding, up from 33% in 2022. - 26% of motorcyclists killed had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher, with another 7% testing between 0.01 and 0.07 BAC. - 46% of motorcycle fatalities occurred on weekends, slightly up from 45% in 2022. - The average age of riders killed in 2023 was 41 years old. - Riders aged 21–24 had the highest rate of speeding involvement in fatal crashes (54%). - 65% of fatally injured riders in the U.S. were wearing helmets, with California showing a much higher rate of 94% helmeted use among rider fatalities. - Based on [preliminary 2025 data](https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813756), California experienced a 2.4% reduction in overall traffic fatalities compared to 2024. While this slight decline may hint at improved road safety, the number of motorcycle-related deaths continues to remain alarmingly high. **California Motorcycle Fatality Rates 2012–2023** Year Killed Registered Vehicles Fatality Rate per 100,000 Registered Vehicles **2012** 4,986 8,454,939 58.97 **2013** 4,692 8,404,687 55.83 **2014** 4594 8417718 54.58 **2015** 5029 8600936 58.47 **2016** 5337 8679380 61.49 **2017** 5226 8664108 60.32 **2018** 5038 8659741 58.18 **2019** 5044 8596314 58.68 **2020** 5620 8347453 67.33 **2021** 6144 9424769 65.19 **2022** 6251 9186256 68.05 **2023** 6335 9516910 66.57 **California Motorcycle Injury Rates 2012–2023** Year Injured Registered Vehicles Injury Rate per 100,000 Registered Vehicles **2012** 93,251 8,454,939 1,103 **2013** 88,760 8,404,687 1,056 **2014** 91987 8417718 1093 **2015** 88738 8600936 1032 **2016** 104442 8679380 1203 **2017** 88592 8664108 1023 **2018** 81859 8659741 945 **2019** 83814 8596314 975 **2020** 80662 8347435 966 **2021** 84898 9424769 901 **2022** 82690 9186256 900 **2023** 82564 9516910 868 ### California vs. U.S. Motorcycle Fatality Rates Motorcycle accidents are among the most dangerous traffic incidents, often resulting in fatal injuries due to the rider’s limited protection. California consistently reports some of the most motorcycle accidents in the nation, making it a critical state to examine when analyzing national traffic safety trends. By comparing fatal motorcycle crash data from California with [nationwide statistics](https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813743) between 2020 and 2023, we can better understand where the risks are highest and how they’ve evolved over time. Year California (Motorcyclist Fatalities) U.S. Total (Motorcyclist Fatalities) **2020** 539 5579 **2021** 565 5932 **2022** 598 5956 **2023** 583 6335 ### Passenger Car vs. Motorcycle Accident Rates Motorcyclists continue to face significantly higher risks on the road compared to passenger vehicle occupants. Although motorcycles represent a small fraction of registered vehicles, they accounted for 15% of all traffic fatalities in 2023, according to the NHTSA. The fatality rate for motorcyclists per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (31.39) was nearly 28 times higher than the [rate for passenger car occupants](https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813723) (1.13). Additionally, an estimated 82,564 motorcyclists were injured in 2023, while 1,947,298 passenger vehicle occupants sustained injuries. Yet motorcyclists still had a higher injury rate, even after adjusting for exposure. These statistics highlight the disproportionate danger motorcyclists face and reinforce the need for increased safety measures and awareness. Rate Motorcycles Passenger Cars Fatality Rate Injury Rate Fatality Rate Injury Rate **2020** Per 100,000 Registered Vehicles 65.96 946 11.42 924 Per 100 Million VMT 30.68 440 1.22 99 **2021** Per 100,000 Registered Vehicles 60.03 837 12.53 1.027 Per 100 Million VMT 30.20 421 1.26 103 **2022** Per 100,000 Registered Vehicles 68.05 900 12.17 927 Per 100 Million VMT 26.30 348 1.20 91 **2023** Per 100,000 Registered Vehicles 66.57 868 11.61 905 Per 100 Million VMT 31.39 409 1.13 88 ### Age Group and Day-of-the-Week Analysis From 2022 to 2023, the NHTSA reports a noticeable increase in motorcyclist fatalities across various age brackets. The agency also analyzed the timing of fatal crashes. **Here are some points to remember:** - Fatalities among individuals aged 15 to 20 surged by 44%, rising from 350 to 505. - The 21-to-24 age group experienced a 7% increase in fatalities, rising from 572 to 611. - The average age of motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes was 41 in 2023. - 46% of motorcyclist fatalities occurred on weekends in 2022, compared to 47% in 2023, reflecting a slight increase in weekday fatalities year-over-year. - While weekend fatalities remained more common, there was a modest increase in weekday motorcyclist fatalities, rising from 3,364 to 3,371. Age Group 2022 2023 Weekday Weekend Total 2023 Weekday 2023 Weekend 2023 Total **<15** 6 12 18 7 7 14 **15-20** 218 132 350 291 214 505 **21-24** 336 234 572 350 261 611 **25-29** 404 325 729 404 361 765 **30-34** 414 338 752 363 323 687 **35-39** 306 299 606 284 291 575 **40-44** 284 267 551 320 246 567 **45-49** 255 254 509 239 252 492 **50-54** 272 290 562 260 256 517 **55-59** 249 238 487 241 266 507 **60-64** 243 225 468 247 218 465 **65+** 375 262 639 363 261 625 **Total** 3,364 2,881 6,251 3,371 2,958 6,335 ## Primary Collision Factors for Motorcycle Accidents A clear understanding of the leading causes that contribute to motorcycle deaths in California can empower officials to implement targeted safety measures. Statistics provide valuable insights into the root causes of motorcycle collisions, informing strategies that allow the state to mitigate risks and enhance road safety for riders. The [California Strategic Highway Safety Plan](https://dot.ca.gov/-/media/dot-media/programs/safety-programs/documents/shsp/shsp-ca-datafactsheets_a11y.pdf) (SHSP) report provides insights into which types of traffic violations lead to motorcycle accidents, separating the data by region. Speeding was the most common violation in every region, including Los Angeles. Statewide Redding Sacramento SF/Bay Area Fresno Los Angeles San Diego **Unsafe Speed** 29% 27% 28% 31% 24% 29% **Improper Turning** 18% 26% 16% 18% 23% 16% **Automobile Right-of-Way** 17% 8% 15% 13% 13% 21% **Operating Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs** 10% 13% 15% 11% 14% 8% **Unsafe Lane Change** 5% 1% 3% 7% 2% 7% ### Alcohol Involvement in Fatal Motorcycle Accidents Alcohol plays a role in many fatal motorcycle crashes in California. The NHTSA provides statistics about the prevalence and impact of alcohol impaired riding among motorcycle riders. **This information can offer insights and enable officials to find ways to prevent intoxicated drivers from harming themselves or other road users:** - In 2023, 26% of the 6,025 motorcyclists killed in crashes had a BAC of 0.08 g/dL or higher, compared to 28% in 2022. - An additional 7% of riders killed in 2023 had lower BACs between 0.01 and 0.07 g/dL. - Motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes had higher rates of alcohol impairment (26%) than other types of drivers: 24% for passenger car occupants, 20% for light-truck drivers, and 4% for large-truck drivers. - In 2023, the age groups 35–39 (34%) and 45–49 (31%) had the highest percentages of alcohol-impaired motorcycle rider fatalities, followed by the 50–54 age group. - 41% of motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle crashes were alcohol-impaired, compared to 18% in multi-vehicle crashes. - 44% of riders killed in single-vehicle weekend crashes were under the influence of alcohol. Crash Type and Day of Week 2022 2023 Total Motorcycle Riders Killed Alcohol-Impaired Total Motorcycle Riders Killed Alcohol-Impaired Number Percent Number Percent **Single-Vehicle** Weekday 1075 400 37% 1030 375 36% Weekend 1187 537 45% 1135 500 44% **Total*** 2267 939 41% 2171 879 41% **Multiple-Vehicle** Weekday 2169 325 15% 2207 332 15% Weekend 1528 406 27% 1647 373 23% **Total*** 3698 731 20% 3854 705 18% **Total** Weekday 3244 725 22% 3237 708 22% Weekend 2715 944 35% 2782 876 31% **Total*** 5965 1670 28% 6025 1584 26% ### Speeding and Fatal Motorcycle Accidents The NHTSA also gathers data about motorcycle crashes involving speeding, including when riders were exceeding the speed limit, racing, or driving too fast for current conditions. **These are some highlights from the data:** - In 2023, 36% of motorcycle riders in fatal crashes were speeding, a 3% increase from 2022 (33%). - Riders aged 21 to 24 had the highest speeding involvement in fatal crashes — 54% in 2023 and 51% in 2022. - Speeding was a factor in 47% of fatal crashes for riders aged 25 to 29 in 2023, making them the second-highest group. - Riders under 15 had 0% speeding involvement in 2023, while riders 65+ had only 18%, the lowest of all age groups. Speeding Involvement 2023 Total Speeding Not Speeding **Age Group** **Number** **Percent** **Number** **Percent** **Number** **Percent** **<15** 0 0% 8 100% 8 100% **15-20** 259 51% 250 49% 509 100% **21-24** 341 54% 285 46% 626 100% **25-29** 370 47% 409 53% 779 100% **30-34** 269 39% 419 61% 688 100% **35-39** 228 39% 357 61% 585 100% **40-44** 226 40% 340 60% 566 100% **45-49** 166 34% 329 66% 495 100% **50-54** 135 25% 399 75% 534 100% **55-59** 129 26% 370 74% 499 100% **60-64** 94 20% 382 80% 476 100% **65+** 114 18% 511 82% 625 100% **Total*** **2,305** **36%** **4,124** **64%** **6,429** **100%** ### Helmet Use and Effectiveness in Fatal Motorcycle Accidents Helmets are effective at reducing fatalities in motorcycle accidents. That's why many states, including California, have set [safety standards](https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/file/motorcycle-driver-handbook-pdf/) regarding helmet use. **Here are some facts from the NHTSA:** - Helmets are 37% effective in preventing rider fatalities and 41% effective in preventing fatalities in passengers. - Despite high helmet use, 583 motorcyclist fatalities occurred in California, showing that helmets alone aren’t enough to prevent all fatal crashes. - All U.S. motorcycle helmets must meet [FMVSS 218 standards](https://www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/14283-identify_unsafe_motorcycle_helmets_070919_v4_tag.pdf). - 18 states, D.C., and Puerto Rico required helmets for all riders in 2023, while 29 states had partial laws, and 3 states (Illinois, Iowa, New Hampshire) had no helmet laws. - DOT-compliant helmet use in the U.S. was 73.8% in 2023, an increase from 65.9% in states without universal helmet laws to 82.7% in states with [universal helmet laws](https://www.ghsa.org/state-laws/issues/motorcyclists). - Overall helmet use rates among fatally injured riders in 2023 were 65% for riders and 51% for passengers, up from 63% and 44% respectively, in 2022. ## Recoverable Damages After a Motorcycle Accident Victims of motorcycle accidents caused by negligent drivers can seek compensation for their losses, both monetary and nonmonetary. **Awards for such damages might include the following categories:** - **Medical expenses:** Hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation treatments. - **Lost income:** Compensation for wages lost due to the inability to work during recovery, including future earning capacity if the injury is permanent. - **Pain and suffering:** Physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish endured as a result of the accident and injuries sustained. - **Property damage:** Reimbursement for repair or replacement of the motorcycle, riding gear, and other personal belongings damaged in the accident. - [**Wrongful death**](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/practice-areas/wrongful-death)**:** Compensation for surviving family members in the event of a fatal motorcycle accident, including funeral expenses and loss of financial support. No amount of money can make up for a life-changing injury. However, a successful personal injury claim can empower you to protect your loved ones' futures and rebuild your life. ## Motorcycle Safety and Prevention Measures California continues to report one of the highest motorcycle accident rates and serious injuries nationwide. To address this, [California’s Vision Zero Plan](https://www.ots.ca.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/67/2025/09/FY-2024-Annual-Report-Final-7.31-ALT-TEXT.pdf) and the Traffic Safety Core Performance Measures aim to reduce fatalities to 559 by December 31, 2026. **The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) emphasizes** [**several key areas**](https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycles) **to prevent crashes and wrongful deaths, including:** - **Helmet use:** Proven to reduce fatal injuries and required under California law. - **Rider education and valid motorcycle licensing:** Critical, especially for older riders and those new to motorcycling. - **Visibility and gear:** Reflective clothing and DOT-compliant helmets help riders stay visible to other drivers. - **Sober riding:** Alcohol remains a major factor in fatal crashes. - **Vehicle readiness:** Regular inspections of registered motorcycles can prevent mechanical failures. In support of these efforts, the [California Vehicle Code 23123.5](https://codes.findlaw.com/ca/vehicle-code/veh-sect-23123-5/), also known as the No-Touch Cell Phone Law, took effect in June 2025. This law prohibits drivers from physically handling their phones while driving to curb distracted driving — a major cause of motorcycle and vehicle crashes. ## How a Legal Professional Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident Getting into a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when [serious injuries](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/practice-areas/serious-injuries) or even the wrongful death of a loved one are involved. An experienced legal professional can be a critical ally in protecting your rights and securing the compensation you deserve. **Here’s how a motorcycle accident attorney can help:** - **Navigating the legal process:** At [Cohen & Marzban](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/), we guide you through each legal step, from filing claims to negotiating settlements, so you can focus on healing. - **Building a strong case:** We collect medical records, reports, and witness statements to prove fault and show how the crash affected you. - **Dealing with insurance:** Our attorneys handle insurers directly and fight for the full compensation you deserve. - **Calculating damages:** We identify all losses — medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering — to maximize your claim. - **Helping families:** In fatal crashes, we file wrongful death claims to recover funeral costs and support for surviving family members. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, emotional trauma, or pushback from insurers, a trusted motorcycle accident lawyer can be the support you need to move forward. Available 24/7 ## Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Our legal team at Cohen & Marzban helps victims recover full compensation for injuries, damages, and lost income. [Get a Free Consultation](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/consultation) Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today California motorcycle accident statistics serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety on our roads. While the allure of riding a motorcycle along California's scenic highways is undeniable, it comes with inherent risks that all riders must acknowledge and address. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, the experienced lawyers at are always ready to help. [Contact us](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/contact-us) today for a free consultation and let us advocate for the justice and compensation you deserve. Together, we can work toward safer roads and a brighter future for all motorcycle riders in California. - Bob M. Cohen - Attorney & Founder - /about-us/bob-m-cohen - Bob M. Cohen - Bob M. Cohen is the Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Better Business Bureau of Southern California and Silicon Valley and a practicing attorney at Cohen & Marzban Law Corporation. ## Motorcycle Accident? We’re Here to Help. Let Cohen & Marzban handle the legal process while you focus on recovery. We’ll fight for your rights every step of the way. [Get a Free Consultation Today](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/consultation) ## Related Articles [Does Health Insurance Cover Motorcycle Accident Injuries in California? A 2025-2026 Guide.](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/blog/health-insurance-cover-motorcycle-accident-injuries) [Can You File a Personal Injury Claim If It Was Your Fault? (Los Angeles Edition)](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/blog/filing-a-personal-injury-claim-when-you-are-at-fault) [After a Car Accident](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/blog/after-a-car-accident) --- Cohen & Marzban — [https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/blog/california-motorcycle-accident-statistics](https://losangelespersonalinjury.attorney/blog/california-motorcycle-accident-statistics)