Motorcycles make up only a small share of vehicles on the road, yet riders face a dramatically higher risk of serious injury or death compared to drivers in cars. National crash data shows that motorcyclists are far more likely to be involved in fatal collisions, and in a city like Los Angeles, the danger can be even greater.
Understanding what percentage of motorcycle riders get in accidents helps riders grasp the weight of the risks they face every day. At Compass Law Group, LLP, our goal is to keep riders informed so they can better protect themselves on the open road.
In this blog, we’ll explore national and Los Angeles–specific accident statistics, explain the risk factors that drive these numbers, and highlight what riders can do to protect themselves and their families.
National Statistics on Motorcycle Accident Rates
What percentage of motorcycle riders get in accidents? While the exact data varies slightly by source, national safety agencies like the National Safety Council (NSC) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) provide reliable benchmarks.
- Roughly 1% of motorcycle riders are involved in reported crashes annually. This may sound small, but it represents tens of thousands of riders every year.
- Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in crashes than passenger car occupants, according to NHTSA.
- As of 2022, motorcycles account for only 3% of registered vehicles, yet they make up about 15% of all traffic fatalities.
- In 2023, there were more than 6,000 motorcycle fatalities in the U.S., the highest in over four decades.
This stark contrast between motorcycle accident fatalities and passenger vehicle fatalities highlights why motorcycle accident statistics matter. Riding exposes motorcyclists to far greater risks, and even experienced riders are vulnerable to the mistakes of others.
Motorcycle Accident Rates in California & Los Angeles
California consistently ranks among the highest in the number of annual motorcycle accidents in the nation. With its year-round riding weather, large rider population, and dense urban centers like Los Angeles, the risks are significant.
- In recent years, California has averaged over 500 motorcycle fatalities annually, accounting for about 15% of all statewide traffic deaths.
- Los Angeles County reports some of the highest numbers of motorcycle crashes in the state. Data from traffic safety researchers at UC Berkeley indicates that LA routinely leads in both fatalities and injury rates.
Los Angeles-Specific Concerns
- Traffic Density: Stop-and-go congestion on freeways creates dangerous merging and lane-splitting conditions.
- Distracted Driving: Cell phone use is a major factor in collisions with motorcycles.
- Urban Road Design: Intersections, left turns, and blind spots create hotspots for serious crashes.
- High Population of Riders: With more motorcycles registered in Southern California than in most states combined, the risk of an accident is higher.
Compared to rural counties, LA’s motorcycle accident rates are disproportionately high. While California as a whole has made strides in promoting motorcycle safety through training and awareness campaigns, Los Angeles continues to see hundreds of rider fatalities and severe injuries each year.
Limitations in the Data
While motorcycle accident statistics provide important insights, there are gaps in the information they provide. These numbers can fluctuate slightly based on how the data is collected and reported.
Some of these data limitations include:
- Underreporting: Not all motorcycle crashes are reported, especially minor incidents or single-vehicle accidents. This means actual crash rates are likely higher.
- Varying Terminology: Some reports distinguish between accidents, crashes, collisions, and fatalities. For example, an “accident” may refer to any event, while “crash” data often focuses on incidents involving another vehicle.
- Data Lag: Many national and state-level reports take one to two years to compile, so the most recent official figures may not reflect current trends.
These gaps don’t change the overall picture: that motorcyclists remain at significantly higher risk than drivers of passenger vehicles. However, it’s important to remember that statistics can’t capture the full reality of every crash.
Comparing Motorcycle Accidents in Los Angeles vs. the Nation
When comparing national numbers with Los Angeles data, the city often appears as a hotspot for motorcycle accidents. Los Angeles is not only one of the busiest riding regions in the U.S., but also one of the riskiest.
Riders here face a daily combination of traffic congestion, driver inattention, and complex roadway design that is more severe than in many other states.
- While the national fatality rate is about 25 deaths per 100 million miles traveled, LA County reports significantly higher accident frequencies compared to many other urban areas.
- Los Angeles ranks near the top nationwide in total motorcycle crashes, largely due to its population density and high number of registered riders.
- Factors such as year-round riding weather and lane-splitting laws unique to California also contribute to a higher exposure rate for local riders.
Risk Factors That Raise Accident Probability
Research shows certain factors can make motorcycle accidents in Los Angeles far more likely. Below are the leading causes identified by national safety agencies and traffic studies:
- Speeding: Excessive speed is a factor in over 30% of fatal motorcycle crashes.
- No Helmets: Helmet use reduces the risk of head injury by 69% and death by 37%, yet some riders still choose not to wear one.
- Alcohol Use: Roughly one-third of riders killed in crashes had alcohol in their system.
- Unlicensed Riders: About 30% of motorcycle fatalities involve riders without a valid motorcycle license.
- Visibility Issues: Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see, especially in blind spots or low-light conditions.
- Urban Traffic Environments: In cities like LA, lane splitting, heavy congestion, and aggressive driving all increase crash risk.
It’s important to note that even experienced riders with proper training and safety gear remain vulnerable. Many crashes result from driver negligence and other factors outside of the rider’s control, rather than mistakes by the motorcyclist.
What This Means for Motorcycle Riders in Los Angeles
For Los Angeles riders, these motorcycle accident statistics represent real risks faced on the road every day. With LA consistently reporting some of the highest motorcycle crash totals in the state, understanding these risks can help riders make safer choices.
Staying safe on Los Angeles roads starts with smart choices every rider can make:
- Take a safety course to sharpen your skills and reaction time.
- Wear protective gear like helmets and reflective clothing.
- Ride defensively, assuming other drivers may not see you.
- Avoid high-risk times such as rush hour and late nights.
- Know your rights and seek legal help if you’re in a crash.
Even with the best safety practices, riders cannot control the actions of distracted or negligent drivers. If you’ve been injured, an experienced attorney can help you pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Ride Smart, Protect Your Future
So, what percentage of motorcycle riders crash? The answer is sobering: roughly 1% of riders are involved in crashes each year. In California, and especially in Los Angeles, the risks are magnified by dense traffic, distracted driving, and a high number of riders on the road.
At Compass Law Group, LLP, we’ve helped riders and families recover millions in compensation after a serious crash. With our No Win, No Fee Guarantee and a proven track record of results, our team is here to fight for your rights and guide you through every step of the legal process.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Los Angeles, don’t wait. Contact our motorcycle accident attorneys today for a free consultation. Your path to recovery and justice starts here.
