Southern California's perfect weather and scenic coastal routes make it a paradise for motorcycle enthusiasts. From cruising along Vista Del Mar with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop to navigating the winding roads near Palos Verdes, motorcycling offers an unmatched sense of freedom. However, this freedom comes with inherent risks, and unfortunately, common causes of motorcycle accidents, particularly in busy areas like El Segundo and the greater Los Angeles region.

At Bloom Injury Law, we've worked with numerous motorcycle accident victims throughout El Segundo and surrounding communities. Our experience has shown us that understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents is the first step toward prevention and safety.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Lane Splitting and South Bay Traffic Patterns

Lane splitting—riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped vehicles—is legal in California but remains a significant factor in motorcycle accidents. On congested routes like Sepulveda Boulevard during rush hour or near the LAX corridor, lane splitting requires exceptional awareness and precision.

The unique traffic patterns of the South Bay area, particularly at intersections like Rosecrans and Aviation, create situations where vehicle drivers may not anticipate a motorcycle moving between lanes of traffic. When commuters are rushing to aerospace companies or tech firms in El Segundo's business district, their attention may be divided, increasing the risk for motorcyclists who are lane splitting.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents related to lane splitting include:

• Sudden lane changes by cars without proper signaling
• Drivers opening doors without checking for approaching motorcyclists
• Misjudgment of space between vehicles by the motorcyclist
• Unexpected slowdowns in traffic flow

Distracted Driving on Local Roads

The prevalence of distracted driving has sadly increased throughout Los Angeles County, including our coastal communities. When negligent drivers check their phones while crawling through traffic on Pacific Coast Highway or adjusting their GPS while navigating to The Point shopping center, they're less likely to notice smaller vehicles like motorcycles.

This type of inattention is particularly dangerous near popular destinations such as Plaza El Segundo or along Main Street, where pedestrian activity and multiple distractions already compete for a negligent driver's attention. Motorcyclists traveling through these areas face a higher risk of accidents caused by drivers who fail to see them.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents stemming from distracted driving include:

• Texting or phone use while driving
• Adjusting in-vehicle entertainment systems
• Focusing on navigation systems
• Conversations with passengers
• Looking at roadside attractions or businesses

Left-Turn Accidents at El Segundo Intersections

One of the most frequent and dangerous situations for motorcyclists occurs when vehicles make left turns in front of them. These accidents commonly happen at busy intersections like El Segundo Boulevard and Nash Street or at entrances to popular destinations like the Automobile Driving Museum.

Drivers often misjudge the speed of an approaching motorcycle or simply fail to see them altogether. The smaller profile of motorcycles makes them harder to spot, especially during busy periods when drivers are focused on finding gaps in traffic to make their turns.

These left-turn accidents frequently occur:

• At intersections near Smoky Hollow's revitalized industrial district
• During evening commutes when visibility is reduced
• Near entertainment venues like the Old Town Music Hall when events are letting out
• At unprotected left turns throughout the city's commercial areas

Road Hazards Unique to South Bay Communities

The South Bay region, including El Segundo, presents unique road hazards for motorcyclists. From the occasional sand blown onto Vista Del Mar from Dockweiler Beach to construction around the developing Raytheon campus, road conditions can change rapidly.

Motorcycles, with their two-wheel design, are particularly vulnerable to potential hazards that would pose minimal threat to four-wheeled vehicles. In wet conditions, even the painted lane markings near the Metro Green Line station can become surprisingly slippery for motorcyclists.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents related to road conditions include:

• Beach sand on coastal routes
• Oil spills near industrial areas on El Segundo Boulevard
• Construction debris near developing areas
• Potholes and uneven pavement on older streets
• Metal plates covering roadwork
• Railroad tracks crossing Aviation Boulevard

Speeding and Reckless Driving on Pacific Coast Highway

The scenic allure of Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) makes it popular among both local motorcyclists and tourists. However, this beautiful coastal route has seen its share of motorcycle accidents caused by excessive speed and reckless driving.

The straight stretches of PCH near El Segundo and Manhattan Beach sometimes tempt riders to exceed safe speeds. Additionally, the curves near Palos Verdes present challenges that inexperienced riders might underestimate.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents related to speed include:

• Exceeding speed limits, particularly on straight sections
• Taking curves too quickly
• Racing or aggressive riding
• Inability to stop quickly when traffic patterns change
• Speed differential between motorcycles and other vehicles

Impaired Driving Near Entertainment Districts

El Segundo's growing restaurant scene, including popular spots along Main Street and Richmond Street, has enhanced the city's nightlife. Unfortunately, this can also lead to instances of impaired driving, which is particularly dangerous for motorcyclists.

Riders leaving establishments near Downtown El Segundo or returning from nearby Manhattan Beach or Hermosa Beach face increased risk from impaired drivers during evening hours. Alcohol and drugs significantly diminish a driver's ability to notice and correctly respond to smaller vehicles like motorcycles.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents related to impairment include:

• Alcohol consumption affecting judgment and reaction time
• Drug use impairing driving abilities
• Fatigue reducing alertness, especially on the commute home
• Prescription medications affecting driving performance

Inexperienced Riders and South Bay's Unique Riding Environment

The appealing climate of Southern California attracts many new motorcycle riders each year. However, inexperience can be a significant factor in accidents, especially given the unique riding environment of the South Bay.

Navigating between the heavy industrial traffic near the Chevron Refinery, merging onto the 105 Freeway, or handling the busy parking situations at Plaza El Segundo requires skills that new riders may still be developing.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents related to rider inexperience include:

• Inadequate training before riding in complex traffic situations
• Poor understanding of motorcycle handling characteristics
• Inappropriate reactions to sudden traffic changes
• Limited familiarity with local traffic patterns and hotspots

Weather Conditions and Seasonal Factors

While Southern California is known for its favorable weather, El Segundo does experience occasional rain, fog, and strong coastal winds. These conditions can create hazardous riding environments, especially on roads like Imperial Highway that experience heavy use.

The morning marine layer that rolls in from the ocean can reduce visibility significantly, creating dangerous conditions for motorcyclists commuting to the business district or Raytheon campus. Additionally, the first rain after a dry period makes roads particularly slippery due to accumulated oil and debris.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents related to inclement weather include:

• Reduced visibility during foggy conditions
• Slick surfaces during and after rainfall
• Strong crosswinds, particularly near open areas
• Sun glare during east-west commutes on El Segundo Boulevard

Insufficient Visibility and Protective Gear

Motorcycle safety depends significantly on visibility and proper protective equipment. In busy urban areas like El Segundo's commercial district or near LAX, being seen by other drivers is crucial for motorcyclists.

Riders without reflective or bright-colored gear may blend into backgrounds, making them difficult for drivers to notice. This is especially problematic during evening hours along dimly lit sections of Main Street or in the industrial areas south of El Segundo Boulevard.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents related to visibility and gear include:

• Dark clothing that reduces rider visibility
• Lack of reflective elements on motorcycles
• Insufficient lighting on motorcycles
• Helmets that restrict peripheral vision
• Absence of other protective gear that could prevent or reduce injuries

Intersection Dangers and Right-of-Way Violations

Complex intersections throughout El Segundo, such as where Sepulveda meets El Segundo Boulevard or the entrances to Plaza El Segundo, present particular dangers for motorcyclists. These areas often involve multiple turning lanes, merging traffic, and drivers making last-minute decisions.

Right-of-way violations are among the most common causes of motorcycle accidents at these intersections. Drivers failing to yield appropriately, motorcyclists misjudging traffic signal timing, or confusion about who has the right-of-way can lead to serious collisions.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents at intersections include:

• Drivers running yellow or red lights
• Failures to come to complete stops at stop signs near residential areas
• Right-of-way confusion at four-way stops in Smoky Hollow
• Misjudgment of gaps in traffic when entering main thoroughfares
• Limited visibility at curved intersections

Financial Compensation You May Be Entitled To If a Victim of a Motorcycle Accident

Our motorcycle accident lawyers understand that crashes on El Segundo's busy streets can result in significant financial burden beyond physical injuries. Here are the types of compensation you may be entitled to recover:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and future medical care related to your motorcycle accident injuries.
• Lost Wages: Recovery for income lost while unable to work due to your injuries, including time spent attending medical appointments or recovering at home.
• Loss of Earning Capacity: Financial recovery if your motorcycle accident injuries prevent you from returning to your previous position or limit your ability to earn income in the future.
• Property Damage: Compensation to repair or replace your motorcycle and any personal property damaged in the accident on Pacific Coast Highway or other South Bay roadways.
• Pain and Suffering: Monetary recovery for physical pain, discomfort, and reduced quality of life resulting from your motorcycle accident injuries.
• Emotional Distress: Compensation for psychological impacts such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress, or fear of riding again after experiencing a traumatic accident.
• Loss of Enjoyment: Recovery for your inability to participate in hobbies, recreational activities, or enjoy El Segundo's beach areas and other local amenities due to your injuries.
• Disfigurement or Scarring: Additional compensation if your motorcycle accident resulted in permanent scarring, amputation, or other visible physical changes.
• Loss of Consortium: Damages awarded to your spouse or partner for loss of companionship, affection, or support due to your motorcycle accident injuries.
• Punitive Damages: In cases involving particularly reckless behavior, such as drunk driving near Main Street's establishments, additional compensation may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer.
• Wrongful Death Benefits: Compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship if you've lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident on El Segundo's roadways.
• Rehabilitation Costs: Recovery for specialized equipment, home modifications, or vocational rehabilitation needed after sustaining serious injuries in a motorcycle accident.
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Reimbursement for transportation to medical appointments, medication costs, home care services, and other accident-related expenses not covered by insurance.

How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Maximize Your Compensation and Hold Reckless Drivers Accountable

At Bloom Injury Law, we leverage our deep understanding of the common causes of motorcycle accidents, El Segundo's roadways, and California motorcycle traffic laws to fight for the full compensation you deserve after an accident on local streets like Sepulveda Boulevard or Pacific Coast Highway.

• Thorough Accident Investigation: Our team examines crash scenes, collects witness statements from local residents, analyzes traffic camera footage, and works with accident reconstruction professionals to establish exactly what happened on El Segundo's busy intersections.
• Comprehensive Documentation of Injuries: We ensure all your injuries are properly diagnosed and documented by medical professionals, including often-overlooked conditions like traumatic brain injuries or internal trauma common in South Bay motorcycle collisions.
• Calculation of All Damages: Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers meticulously calculate your complete damages, including current medical bills, future medical treatment costs, lost income, diminished earning capacity, and the true value of your pain and suffering from accidents on local roadways.
• Strategic Negotiation Tactics: Our attorneys employ proven negotiation strategies when dealing with insurance companies that routinely undervalue motorcycle accident claims involving crashes near LAX or on Imperial Highway.
• Insurance Coverage Analysis: We identify all possible insurance policies that may provide coverage, including the at-fault driver's liability insurance, your own underinsured motorist coverage, and potentially other sources applicable to South Bay accidents.
• Countering Bias Against Motorcyclists: We actively combat the unfair bias that motorcyclists often face from insurance adjusters and defense attorneys who wrongly assume riders were exceeding the speed limit or driving recklessly on El Segundo's streets.
• Evidence Preservation: We act quickly to preserve critical evidence that might otherwise be lost, such as skid marks on Rosecrans Avenue, vehicle damage patterns, or surveillance footage from local businesses near the accident scene.
• Expert Witness Testimony: We collaborate with medical specialists, economic experts, and accident reconstruction professionals who can provide compelling testimony about the causes and consequences of your motorcycle crash in El Segundo.
• Statute of Limitations Compliance: We ensure your claim is filed within California's strict deadlines, protecting your right to pursue compensation for accidents that occur on any South Bay thoroughfare.
• Aggressive Litigation Preparation: Even while negotiating, we prepare thoroughly for trial, sending a clear message to insurance companies that we're ready to fight for justice in Los Angeles County courts if they refuse a fair settlement.
• Handling Complex Liability Issues: We navigate complicated liability scenarios involving multiple vehicles, government entities responsible for dangerous road conditions, or manufacturing motorcycle defects that may have contributed to your accident near Dockweiler Beach or The Point.
• Personalized Legal Strategy: We develop customized legal approaches based on the specific circumstances of your case, the severity of your injuries, and the particular stretch of El Segundo roadway where your accident occurred.
• Contingency Fee Representation: Our personal injury lawyers provide legal services on a contingency basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we secure compensation for your motorcycle accident on El Segundo Boulevard or other local streets.

How Bloom Injury Law Can Help After a Motorcycle Accident

Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents is essential for prevention, but even the most careful riders can become victims of circumstances beyond their control. If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in El Segundo or the surrounding South Bay area, Bloom Injury Law is prepared to help.

Our approach focuses on thorough investigation and documentation of accident causes, comprehensive assessment of injuries and damages, and strategic negotiation with insurance companies. We understand the unique challenges that motorcyclists face on South Bay roads and the biases they often encounter in the aftermath of accidents.

From cases involving complex left-turn scenarios on Aviation Boulevard to multi-vehicle accidents on PCH, we have the knowledge and resources to advocate effectively for motorcycle accident victims throughout Los Angeles County.

Motorcycle Accident Victim Cases We Take

At Bloom Injury Law, we represent motorcyclists affected by common causes of motorcycle accidents and beyond. Throughout El Segundo and the South Bay area, fighting for maximum compensation regardless of accident complexity or severity.

• Lane Splitting Accidents: We handle cases where drivers failed to check mirrors before changing lanes on busy corridors like Sepulveda Boulevard, causing collisions with legally lane-splitting motorcyclists.
• Left-Turn Collision Cases: Our firm represents riders injured when vehicles made improper left turns at El Segundo intersections, cutting off motorcyclists who had the right of way.
• Rear-End Motorcycle Crashes: We advocate for motorcyclists struck from behind while stopped at traffic lights on El Segundo Boulevard or Pacific Coast Highway, often resulting in serious injuries.
• Dooring Accidents: We take cases where parked motorists opened car doors without checking for approaching motorcyclists near popular Main Street establishments or The Point shopping center.
• Distracted Driving Collisions: Our team pursues justice for riders injured by drivers texting, using smartphones, or otherwise distracted while navigating through El Segundo's business district.
• DUI-Related Motorcycle Accidents: We aggressively represent victims of intoxicated drivers who caused motorcycle crashes while leaving local restaurants or bars in Downtown El Segundo.
• Road Hazard Incidents: We handle cases involving poorly maintained roads, construction debris, or unmarked hazards on municipal streets that caused motorcycle accidents.
• Multi-Vehicle Pileups: Our attorneys manage complex cases where motorcyclists were injured in chain-reaction crashes near LAX or on congested freeways surrounding El Segundo.
• Highway Speed Collisions: We represent victims of high-speed motorcycle accidents on I-105, I-405, or Pacific Coast Highway that typically result in catastrophic injuries.
• Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Cases: We assist riders injured by drivers who fled accident scenes, using our resources to identify responsible parties or pursue uninsured motorist claims.
• Wrongful Death Claims: Our firm provides compassionate representation to families who lost loved ones in fatal crashes on South Bay roadways.
• Defective Motorcycle Parts: We handle product liability cases where manufacturing defects in motorcycles or safety equipment contributed to accidents or worsened injuries.
• Passenger Injury Claims: We represent motorcycle passengers injured while riding as guests, helping them navigate potential claims against multiple parties.
• Intersection Collision Cases: Our team litigates complex liability cases involving motorcyclists struck at dangerous El Segundo intersections with confusing traffic patterns or poor visibility.
• Single-Vehicle Accidents: We take cases where road design flaws, oil spills, or debris forced riders to crash while avoiding hazards near industrial areas or the Chevron refinery.

Preventive Measures for El Segundo Motorcyclists

While understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents is crucial, prevention remains the best strategy. Local riders can take several measures to enhance their safety:

• Maintain heightened awareness around popular shopping areas like The Point and Plaza El Segundo
• Use extra caution during shift changes near the Chevron Refinery and aerospace companies
• Consider alternative routes to avoid the most dangerous intersections during peak hours
• Participate in advanced rider courses offered periodically at local community colleges
• Invest in high-visibility gear, especially for commuting along foggy coastal routes
• Practice defensive riding techniques, particularly on busy corridors like Sepulveda Boulevard

What to Do if You or a Loved One Is a Motorcycle Accident Victim

If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident on El Segundo's roadways, taking these critical steps can protect your health and legal rights while strengthening your potential compensation claim.

• Ensure Safety First: Move to a safe location if possible and check for injuries, as remaining on busy streets like Sepulveda Boulevard or Pacific Coast Highway can lead to secondary accidents.
• Call 911 Immediately: Report the accident to law enforcement and request medical assistance, even if injuries seem minor, as El Segundo police reports serve as crucial documentation for your case.
• Seek Medical Attention: Visit an emergency room or urgent care facility promptly, as some serious injuries like internal bleeding or traumatic brain injuries may not show symptoms immediately after a South Bay motorcycle collision.
• Document the Accident Scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and surrounding landmarks near places like The Point or Plaza El Segundo before evidence disappears.
• Gather Witness Information: Collect names and contact details of anyone who observed your motorcycle accident, including local business employees or residents who may have seen what happened.
• Exchange Information Properly: Obtain the other driver's name, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle information, but avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be misinterpreted.
• Report to Insurance Companies: Notify your insurance provider about the accident promptly, but provide only basic facts without elaborating or accepting blame for the El Segundo collision.
• Preserve Evidence: Keep your damaged motorcycle, helmet, and riding gear in their post-accident condition as they may contain critical evidence about how the crash occurred on local roadways.
• Track All Expenses: Maintain detailed records of medical bills, motorcycle repair costs, transportation expenses, and any other financial losses resulting from your accident near LAX or the beach areas.
• Document Your Recovery: Keep a journal noting pain levels, limitations on daily activities, missed work, and how your injuries affect your ability to enjoy South Bay recreational activities.
• Avoid Social Media Posts: Refrain from discussing your accident, injuries, or recovery online, as insurance companies often monitor social media accounts for statements that could undermine your claim.
• Decline Early Settlement Offers: Be cautious of quick settlement proposals from insurance adjusters, as these initial offers rarely account for the full extent of motorcycle accident injuries and long-term consequences.
• Follow Medical Advice Diligently: Attend all appointments and follow treatment plans precisely, as gaps in medical care can be used to argue that your injuries from El Segundo Boulevard or Imperial Highway accidents aren't serious.
• Consult With Bloom Injury Law: Contact our motorcycle accident attorneys before providing recorded statements to insurance companies or signing any documents related to your South Bay accident.
• File Claims Within Deadlines: Be aware that California imposes strict time limits for filing motorcycle accident claims, making prompt legal consultation essential to protect your right to compensation.

Don't Face the Aftermath of a Motorcycle Accident Alone

After a motorcycle accident on El Segundo's busy streets, you deserve dedicated legal representation that understands local traffic patterns and California motorcycle laws. Bloom Injury Law is ready to evaluate your case, explain your options, and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation and let our experienced team guide you through this challenging time.