Sacramento Motorcycle Season Begins — Stay Safe, Stay Aware

As temperatures rise and riding season ramps up across California, Sacramento police are urging caution after a concerning uptick in motorcycle-related crashes and fatalities. According to a May 2025 report by Hoodline, the Sacramento Police Department is warning both riders and drivers to stay alert, obey speed limits, and watch blind spots—especially as more motorcyclists take to the roads during the spring and summer months.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we’ve seen firsthand how devastating motorcycle accidents can be—not just for riders, but for their families. If you or a loved one is injured in a crash, it’s important to know your rights and take the right legal steps early. In this blog, we’ll break down what’s happening in Sacramento, why motorcycle crashes spike this time of year, and how our firm can help if tragedy strikes.

For national motorcycle crash trends, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

Why Motorcycle Accidents Spike During Sacramento’s Riding Season

Every year, as the weather warms up and more motorcycles hit the road, Sacramento sees a rise in serious traffic collisions involving riders. This isn’t just a seasonal coincidence—it’s a well-documented public safety trend. According to recent warnings from the Sacramento Police Department, motorcycle crashes increase dramatically between May and September, putting both experienced riders and casual weekend bikers at higher risk of injury or death.

Understanding the reasons behind this seasonal spike can help riders stay safer—and help the public take motorcycle awareness more seriously.

Better Weather Brings More Riders—and More Risk

Sacramento’s spring and early summer offer ideal conditions for motorcycling. The skies are clear, the roads are dry, and scenic routes from the American River Parkway to Highway 50 are especially appealing to both local riders and visitors. But with more motorcycles on the road, the chances of a crash increase—especially when drivers aren’t paying attention.

When cars fail to notice motorcycles at intersections or during lane changes, the consequences can be deadly. These collisions are rarely “minor”—motorcyclists have virtually no physical protection beyond their helmet and gear.

The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reports that over 80% of motorcycle collisions result in injury or death.

Driver Inattention and Visibility Remain Top Threats

Many motorcycle accidents aren’t caused by reckless riding—they’re caused by drivers who simply fail to see the rider. This is especially common in spring, when drivers haven’t adjusted to the seasonal presence of motorcycles on the road.

Common driver errors that cause spring motorcycle crashes:

Failing to check blind spots before changing lanes
Misjudging a rider’s speed or distance
Turning left at intersections without yielding to oncoming bikes

Even a momentary lapse in awareness can result in a rider being struck, ejected, or pinned by a vehicle many times their size.

For rider visibility tips, see the California DMV Motorcycle Handbook

Spring Traffic Increases Risk for Urban Riders

As Sacramento enters event season—farmers markets, festivals, and riverfront activities—traffic in areas like Downtown, Midtown, and South Natomas intensifies. Motorcycles navigating these congested corridors face more stop-and-go traffic, unexpected lane changes, and distracted drivers.

Even though motorcycles are more maneuverable, they’re also more vulnerable. Potholes, uneven lane striping, and sudden braking by other vehicles all pose serious threats to rider safety—especially during high-volume spring weekends.

What Sacramento Police Are Doing to Prevent Motorcycle Fatalities in 2025

In response to the seasonal increase in crashes, the Sacramento Police Department has launched a renewed effort to promote motorcycle safety across the city. As highlighted in the May 2025 Hoodline article, officers are combining targeted enforcement with public education to reduce fatal motorcycle accidents during the high-risk riding season.

The city’s goal is not just to issue tickets—but to raise awareness before collisions happen.

Targeted Enforcement in High-Risk Corridors

Sacramento police have begun stepping up enforcement in areas where motorcycle crashes are most common. These zones include high-traffic stretches like:

Folsom Boulevard near CSU Sacramento
Freeport Boulevard south of Land Park
Capitol Mall and Downtown grid intersections

Officers are focusing on speeding, unsafe lane changes, and distracted driving—all factors that disproportionately affect motorcyclists. By placing units in known “trouble spots,” the department hopes to prevent crashes before they occur.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) supports similar patrol programs statewide.

Promoting the “Look Twice, Save a Life” Initiative

In addition to enforcement, the Sacramento PD is promoting “Look Twice, Save a Life”, a national motorcycle safety campaign aimed at reducing crashes caused by driver inattention. The message is simple but effective: most motorcycle accidents happen when drivers fail to register the presence of a smaller vehicle in their field of view.

The campaign encourages drivers to:

Check Blind Spots Thoroughly Before Merging

One of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes is a driver merging into a rider’s lane without seeing them. Motorcycles are smaller than cars and can easily slip into a vehicle’s blind spots. That’s why Sacramento police are urging all drivers to double-check blind spots—not just with mirrors, but with a full head turn—before making any lateral movement. In high-traffic areas like Highway 99 or I-5, even a moment of inattention can result in a serious side-swipe collision or force a motorcyclist off the road entirely.

Double-Check Mirrors at Intersections

Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for motorcyclists. Whether turning left, merging, or entering a roundabout, drivers often look for cars—but not bikes. Sacramento police recommend taking a second look in your mirrors and over your shoulder when approaching intersections. This small pause can prevent life-altering crashes, particularly in downtown Sacramento or near busy retail corridors like Arden Way and Florin Road, where multi-lane traffic and flashing signals create confusion.

Stay Focused, Especially in Traffic-Dense Zones

Distractions behind the wheel—like texting, GPS usage, or even eating—can be fatal when motorcycles are involved. Riders are less visible, less protected, and more likely to suffer catastrophic injuries in even low-speed collisions. Drivers navigating areas with increased traffic, such as during weekend events at Golden 1 Center or busy commuter hours through Midtown, must stay alert and avoid multitasking. A single lapse in attention can result in tragedy—and it’s 100% preventable.

This initiative is especially important in spring and summer, when drivers may not be used to seeing motorcycles after months of colder weather.

Working With the Public to Encourage Safer Riding

Police aren’t just talking to drivers—they’re also encouraging motorcyclists to take proactive steps to protect themselves. This includes wearing full protective gear, obeying speed limits, and avoiding lane splitting in congested areas. Officers have been visiting local riding groups and dealerships to distribute materials from the California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP), which offers low-cost rider training and license certification.

Legal Options for Sacramento Motorcyclists Injured in a Crash

No matter how skilled or cautious a motorcyclist may be, they remain especially vulnerable to reckless and inattentive drivers. In California, when a motorcycle crash results in injury or death due to another person’s negligence, the law gives victims the right to seek financial compensation through a personal injury claim. At Kreeger Law Firm, we are committed to helping injured riders and grieving families navigate that legal process from start to finish.

Here’s what you need to know if you or someone you love was hurt in a motorcycle accident in Sacramento.

Emergency Medical Care and Ongoing Treatment

If you’ve been injured in a crash, you may be entitled to compensation for all medical costs related to the accident. This includes ambulance transport, emergency room visits, surgeries, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and follow-up appointments. Even non-surgical treatments like physical therapy, pain management, and chiropractic care may be covered in a personal injury settlement.

Motorcycle crashes often result in catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injury, broken limbs, spinal cord damage, or internal bleeding. These injuries frequently require long-term treatment, and it’s crucial to calculate future medical expenses—not just immediate bills—when pursuing compensation.

Lost Income and Diminished Future Earning Ability

Many riders are forced to miss work after a crash due to their injuries. In some cases, the injuries are so severe that the victim can no longer return to the same job—or any job at all. California law allows motorcycle crash victims to pursue compensation for lost wages, missed professional opportunities, and reduced future earning capacity.

To calculate these damages, we often work with economists and vocational experts to determine how the injury will affect your long-term income and ability to support your family. This is especially important for self-employed individuals, tradespeople, or those in physically demanding careers.

Pain, Suffering, Emotional Trauma, and Reduced Quality of Life

While medical bills and lost wages are easy to measure, non-economic damages like pain and suffering are equally important. Motorcycle crashes can leave victims with chronic pain, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression, and a general loss of enjoyment of life.

For example, a rider who can no longer participate in hobbies they once loved—like hiking, biking, or playing with their kids—may be entitled to additional compensation for that diminished quality of life. These damages are often the most deeply felt, and we fight to ensure they’re not minimized or overlooked during negotiations.

Punitive Damages for Reckless or Malicious Conduct

In some cases, a motorcycle crash isn’t just the result of simple negligence—it’s caused by extremely reckless or intentional behavior. This might include a DUI, hit-and-run, excessive speeding, or road rage incident. In these situations, the court may award punitive damages, which go beyond standard compensation and are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future.

Punitive damages are not available in every case, but when they are justified, they can significantly increase the value of a claim. We investigate the circumstances thoroughly to determine whether this type of recovery is appropriate—and fight aggressively to include it when possible.

California Civil Code § 3294 allows punitive damages in cases involving fraud, oppression, or malice.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash in Sacramento

The aftermath of a motorcycle crash can feel like a blur—especially when injuries, trauma, and confusion take center stage. But taking the right steps immediately following an accident can significantly impact your recovery and your legal claim. At Kreeger Law Firm, we advise riders to act quickly, carefully, and with their long-term well-being in mind.

Here’s what to do if you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash in Sacramento.

Prioritize Medical Attention First

Your health always comes first. Even if you’re able to walk away from the crash, it’s important to understand that many serious injuries—such as internal bleeding, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal trauma—may not present immediate symptoms. Seeking medical attention creates a paper trail that can be critical to your injury claim. It also ensures that no underlying or hidden injuries go untreated. The sooner you see a medical professional, the stronger both your recovery and your legal case will be.

File a Police Report and Request a Copy

Every motorcycle crash in Sacramento should be documented by law enforcement. Whether the Sacramento Police Department or California Highway Patrol responds, an officer will prepare a collision report that includes critical information such as the time and location of the crash, parties involved, and any citations issued. This report becomes a foundational document in any injury claim and may later be used to support liability. Be sure to request a copy as soon as it becomes available. Your attorney will use it to guide further investigation and identify responsible parties.

Photograph Vehicle Damage

If you’re physically able, take clear photographs of the scene—especially the condition of your motorcycle and any other involved vehicles. Capture multiple angles of the damage, showing points of impact, crumpled sections, dislodged parts, and paint transfers. This documentation may help prove the speed, direction, or negligence of the other driver and can be used by accident reconstruction experts later in the case.

Document Road Conditions, Signs, and Skid Marks

Crash scenes can change quickly. Traffic resumes, skid marks fade, and signs may be moved or obstructed. If possible, record images of lane markings, intersection lights, construction cones, weather conditions, and nearby traffic signs. These details may clarify whether poor infrastructure, signage visibility, or lack of warnings contributed to the crash.

Identify Surveillance Cameras Nearby

In populated areas like Midtown, South Natomas, or Downtown Sacramento, businesses, homes, and traffic intersections are often equipped with surveillance cameras. Take note of gas stations, ATMs, or retail stores near the crash site. Your attorney can request footage before it’s deleted—many systems only store video for 24–72 hours. Even brief footage showing the crash or lead-up moments can be invaluable in proving your version of events.

Why You Need a Motorcycle Accident Attorney—Not Just Any Injury Lawyer

Motorcycle accident claims are not like typical car crash cases. They require specialized legal knowledge, familiarity with high-severity injury litigation, and the ability to challenge deeply rooted biases. While any licensed attorney can file a personal injury claim, only an attorney with experience handling motorcycle crashes understands the full scope of what it takes to secure a meaningful recovery for injured riders.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we don’t treat motorcycle accidents as an extension of auto law—we treat them as a distinct legal category that demands its own strategy, experts, and attention to detail.

Insurance Companies Routinely Shift Blame to Motorcyclists

One of the first challenges in a motorcycle accident claim is overcoming insurer bias. Insurance companies often operate under the false assumption that riders are inherently reckless, aggressive, or responsible for their own injuries. This tactic is used to reduce or deny compensation—even when another driver was clearly at fault.

Many adjusters point to lane-splitting, speed, or visibility concerns to suggest comparative fault. Without a skilled motorcycle accident attorney pushing back, these claims often go uncontested. At Kreeger Law Firm, we leverage police reports, helmet cam footage, independent accident reconstruction, and traffic camera video to dismantle these arguments.

For more on insurance tactics that hurt victims, see the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ Consumer Alerts

Motorcycle Injuries Demand Complex, Long-Term Damage Assessments

Motorcyclists are far more likely to suffer catastrophic, life-changing injuries. These include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), compound fractures, amputations, and spinal cord damage—often requiring years of care and financial support. Calculating fair compensation requires more than medical records and receipts. It involves expert forecasting of future care, loss of earning potential, and how the injury will alter every area of the rider’s life.

Our team partners with life care planners, vocational analysts, and medical specialists to ensure your damages are fully documented—not underestimated by adjusters trying to close your file early.

Learn how long-term injury impact is calculated from the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Motorcycle Claims Often Involve Complex or Shared Liability

Many motorcycle crashes involve more than one liable party. The driver who struck you may have run a red light—but a faulty brake system, poor road signage, or a city’s failure to maintain the roadway could also play a role. Motorcycle attorneys must be prepared to hold municipalities, commercial entities, and product manufacturers accountable when their negligence contributes to a crash.

We investigate every crash from multiple angles—reviewing road design flaws, surveying witness reports, and even pulling vehicle maintenance histories. Our experience allows us to pursue multi-defendant claims when necessary.

Read how shared liability works under California law from the State Bar of California

Sacramento Riders Need Local Legal Experience

Choosing a lawyer who knows Sacramento’s roads, police departments, and court systems can significantly strengthen your case. Our firm has handled motorcycle accident cases throughout Downtown Sacramento, Arden-Arcade, Elk Grove, and Citrus Heights. We’re familiar with high-risk zones like Howe Avenue, Stockton Boulevard, and Highway 50, and we use that local knowledge to investigate and prepare your claim with unmatched precision.

We also have working relationships with local medical providers, adjusters, and court personnel, giving us an advantage when pushing for faster case resolutions or trial-ready preparation.

Explore local crash data and traffic fatality trends from the City of Sacramento’s Vision Zero Program

How Compensation Works in Sacramento Motorcycle Crash Claims

Recovering from a motorcycle accident isn’t just a matter of healing — it’s also a matter of ensuring you receive the financial support necessary to rebuild your life. In Sacramento, motorcycle crash victims are legally entitled to seek compensation for a broad range of losses. But to obtain the full value of a claim, it’s critical to understand how damages are calculated, categorized, and contested by insurers.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we take a forensic, evidence-based approach to valuation—ensuring no category of damage is overlooked or underestimated.

Economic Damages: The Measurable Financial Losses

Economic damages refer to tangible, documented financial losses that result directly from the crash. These include emergency treatment, ambulance transport, hospitalizations, surgeries, medications, and follow-up care. Long-term rehabilitation, physical therapy, and in-home assistance are also compensable, as are lost wages and loss of future earning potential.

In cases involving permanent disability or career-ending injuries, our legal team consults vocational experts and life care planners to assess future economic losses over the injured party’s lifetime. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average cost of a disabling injury can exceed hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost earnings alone—before even accounting for medical costs.

Non-Economic Damages: The Human Cost of Injury

These damages are more subjective but just as vital. They include pain and suffering, emotional trauma, disfigurement, loss of mobility, and diminished quality of life. Non-economic losses recognize that a crash doesn’t just affect your finances — it changes how you live.

Under California law, non-economic damages are not capped in personal injury cases (except medical malpractice). To establish these damages, we use psychological evaluations, personal impact statements, and expert testimony to demonstrate how the crash altered the client’s life. For more on how California evaluates pain and suffering damages, the Judicial Council of California provides model jury instructions outlining factors jurors must consider.

Punitive Damages: Reserved for Egregious Conduct

When a crash is caused by gross negligence—such as a DUI, excessive speeding, or intentional aggression—punitive damages may be awarded. These damages are not meant to compensate the victim, but rather to punish the defendant and deter others from similar conduct.

In California, as per Civil Code § 3294, punitive damages require clear and convincing evidence that the at-fault party acted with malice, oppression, or fraud. While more challenging to obtain, our firm has secured punitive damages in cases involving repeat DUI offenders, commercial driver misconduct, and reckless endangerment.

How Settlements Are Structured and Paid

Many victims are unaware that compensation is not always paid as a lump sum. Depending on the nature of the injuries, the age of the victim, and tax considerations, we may structure settlements as annuities or through special needs trusts. This ensures long-term financial security, especially for younger riders or those with permanent disabilities.

We also handle negotiations with lienholders—such as health insurers and workers’ compensation carriers—to reduce liens and maximize your net recovery. This is a technical but critical step often missed by general injury lawyers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Sacramento

Motorcycle accident victims often have immediate and urgent questions following a crash—especially when injuries are severe or liability is unclear. At Kreeger Law Firm, we’ve answered these questions for years and understand what matters most to riders and their families. Below are some of the most common questions we receive, along with accurate and actionable answers backed by California law.

What Should I Do if the Other Driver Left the Scene After the Crash?

Leaving the scene of a motorcycle crash—especially one involving injuries—is a crime under California Vehicle Code § 20001. If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, you should report the incident to the Sacramento Police Department and provide as much identifying information as possible (vehicle make, license plate, location, etc.). Even if the at-fault driver is never found, you may be able to file a claim under your own uninsured motorist coverage, if applicable.

Learn more about hit-and-run victim rights from the California Department of Insurance

How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in California?

In most cases, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in California is two years from the date of the accident, as outlined in California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1. If your case involves a government entity—such as a city vehicle or poor road maintenance—a government tort claim must be filed within six months.

Failing to file within the deadline may result in your case being dismissed. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with an attorney immediately, even if you’re still recovering from your injuries.

What if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet at the Time of the Crash?

California law requires all motorcyclists and passengers to wear a helmet while riding. However, failing to wear a helmet does not automatically prevent you from recovering damages. Under California’s comparative fault rule, your compensation may be reduced if the defense can prove that the lack of a helmet worsened your injuries. Still, you may be eligible for significant compensation if the crash itself was caused by another driver’s negligence.

For details on helmet laws, see the California DMV Motorcycle Handbook

How Fault Is Determined in Sacramento Motorcycle Accidents

In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, one of the most critical—and contested—questions is: who was at fault? This question doesn’t just affect traffic citations. It directly impacts how much financial compensation an injured rider can recover. Under California law, determining fault in a motorcycle crash involves an in-depth examination of the facts, evidence, and legal responsibilities of everyone involved.

At Kreeger Law Firm, we help Sacramento motorcyclists establish liability with precision and speed. Below, we explain how fault is determined and why it’s so important to act quickly.

California’s Comparative Fault System Explained

California follows a pure comparative fault system, which means that multiple parties—including the injured rider—can share liability for a crash. Under California Civil Code § 1714, even if a motorcyclist is partially at fault, they may still recover damages. However, their compensation will be reduced based on their percentage of fault.

For example, if a rider is awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 20% at fault for the crash, they would receive $80,000.

This system makes it especially important to challenge false or exaggerated claims made by the other driver’s insurance company.

Evidence Used to Establish Fault in Motorcycle Crashes

Proving fault requires a mix of documentation, expert analysis, and in some cases, eyewitness testimony. Our firm begins collecting evidence immediately after taking on a case, including:

Police Reports and Crash Documentation

An official collision report from the Sacramento Police Department or California Highway Patrol often serves as the starting point. These reports contain diagrams, officer observations, citations issued, and statements from both parties and witnesses. While not legally binding, they are frequently used by insurers and courts to assess credibility and causation.

Surveillance Footage and Helmet Cams

Footage from nearby traffic cams, business surveillance systems, or the rider’s own helmet cam can provide indisputable proof of how the crash occurred. This is particularly valuable in disputes over whether a motorcyclist was speeding, lane-splitting safely, or had the right of way.

Vehicle and Roadway Inspections

Sometimes, the cause of a crash is tied to external conditions, such as a pothole, debris, or malfunctioning traffic signal. We often partner with engineers or roadway safety experts to document these issues, particularly when the city or county may bear partial responsibility.

To report unsafe roads in Sacramento, visit the City of Sacramento’s 311 Service Request Portal

Common Fault Disputes in Sacramento Motorcycle Crashes

Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame onto the rider to reduce or deny payouts. Here are some of the most frequent—and misleading—claims they make:

“The rider was speeding.”

Speed is often assumed, not proven. We use event data recorders (EDRs), speed analysis from skid marks, and witness statements to disprove speed allegations. Unless confirmed by radar, claims of excessive speed are often speculative.

“The rider wasn’t visible.”

This claim is frequently used in spring and summer crashes. While motorcycles are smaller, drivers still have a legal duty to check blind spots, mirrors, and intersections. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) confirms that most motorcycle crashes occur because other drivers fail to yield—not because riders were invisible.

“The rider was lane-splitting.”

Lane-splitting is legal in California when done safely. Still, insurers often cite it as dangerous behavior. Our job is to show how the rider was operating within legal guidelines, and that the other driver’s sudden lane change or inattention caused the crash.

Why Fast Legal Action Makes a Difference

The longer you wait to gather evidence, the harder it becomes to prove fault. Surveillance footage may be overwritten, witnesses may disappear, and vehicles may be repaired. Our firm sends evidence preservation letters immediately to protect critical data. We also work with accident reconstruction experts to simulate the crash using software and field analysis.

Fault is not just a legal issue—it’s the foundation of your financial recovery. If fault isn’t clearly established, your compensation may be reduced or denied altogether.

What Causes Most Motorcycle Accidents in Sacramento?

Motorcycle accidents in Sacramento aren’t random—they follow identifiable patterns. Certain behaviors, road conditions, and driver errors consistently lead to collisions involving motorcyclists. According to the California Highway Patrol and Sacramento Police Department, the majority of serious motorcycle crashes can be traced back to a small set of recurring causes—most of which are completely preventable.

Understanding these causes not only helps riders stay vigilant but also allows injury attorneys to pinpoint liability and build stronger claims. At Kreeger Law Firm, we regularly investigate these contributing factors to prove negligence and maximize recovery for our clients.

Left-Turn Collisions at Intersections

One of the leading causes of motorcycle crashes in Sacramento is when a vehicle makes a left turn across a rider’s path. This often occurs at busy intersections such as Florin Road & Franklin Boulevard, where visibility and timing are critical. Drivers may misjudge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle or fail to see it altogether.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly 42% of fatal motorcycle crashes involving another vehicle occur when the other driver is turning left.

Motorcyclists are often blamed for “speeding” or “appearing suddenly,” but in reality, drivers fail to yield the right of way. In these cases, we use intersection surveillance footage, witness testimony, and timing data to show the rider had the legal right to proceed.

Distracted Driving and Inattention

In Sacramento’s congested urban corridors—particularly Downtown, Midtown, and along Howe Avenue—distracted driving remains a top threat. Smartphones, GPS devices, dashboard screens, and even in-car entertainment systems all pull attention away from the road.

Motorcycles are smaller and harder to detect, especially when a driver is texting or adjusting their navigation. A 2023 report from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) found that over 50% of all drivers admitted to distracted driving in the past year—and motorcycles are often the first vehicles they miss.

When investigating these crashes, our team pulls cellphone records, dash cam footage, and police interviews to determine whether the at-fault driver was distracted at the time of impact.

Unsafe Lane Changes

Another common cause of motorcycle crashes is when a car or truck makes a lane change without checking blind spots. This often occurs on highways like I-5, Business 80, and Highway 50, where motorcycles are lane-sharing or passing slower vehicles.

While motorcycles can maneuver between lanes more easily, they also disappear from mirrors more quickly—especially in heavy traffic. When drivers fail to signal or scan carefully before merging, riders can be side-swiped, forced off the road, or thrown from their bikes.

The law requires drivers to check before changing lanes. At Kreeger Law Firm, we show how that failure constitutes negligence—and that it was the driver’s legal responsibility to watch for all vehicles, including motorcycles.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speed is a contributing factor in nearly every type of crash. In Sacramento, areas like Watt Avenue, El Camino Avenue, and Stockton Boulevard are frequently cited for speeding-related motorcycle incidents. However, it’s not always the rider who’s speeding.

Passenger vehicles often race through yellow lights, tailgate riders, or fail to maintain safe following distances. When a vehicle strikes a motorcycle at high speed, the rider may be ejected or crushed, resulting in severe injuries or death.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reports that speeding increases both the likelihood of a crash and its severity, especially when the vehicle involved weighs several times more than a motorcycle.

Poor Road Conditions and Roadway Negligence

Motorcyclists are far more vulnerable to environmental hazards than drivers in cars. Potholes, uneven pavement, loose gravel, and debris can all cause a rider to lose control—especially at high speeds or while cornering.

Unfortunately, many roads in Sacramento are in disrepair. Areas like North Highlands, Arden-Arcade, and Fruitridge Road are particularly known for poor surface conditions. In some cases, these hazards are the responsibility of local or state government agencies who failed to maintain public infrastructure.

Riders can report unsafe roads using Sacramento’s 311 Online Service Request Portal

In these cases, our firm investigates city maintenance records, construction permits, and prior complaints to establish government liability under California’s dangerous condition statutes.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or cannabis continues to be a major contributor to motorcycle crashes—especially at night and on weekends. Riders are often targeted in these incidents because impaired drivers have slower reaction times and poorer spatial awareness, making it harder for them to notice or respond to smaller vehicles.

Sacramento police regularly conduct DUI checkpoints in crash-prone zones such as Broadway, Freeport Boulevard, and near college campuses. If a crash involves impairment, we work to obtain blood alcohol test results, arrest records, and prior convictions to build a case for both compensation and potential punitive damages.

See current DUI laws and penalties at the California DMV DUI Guide

Injured in a Motorcycle Crash? Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident in the Sacramento area, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Whether you were struck by a distracted driver, hurt in a left-turn collision, or thrown from your bike due to unsafe road conditions, Kreeger Law Firm is here to help.

We understand the physical pain, financial stress, and emotional toll these crashes take on individuals and families. That’s why we offer free, no-obligation consultations—so you can get honest answers and a clear legal strategy without pressure.

Our team will move quickly to:

Preserve evidence before it disappears
Deal directly with the insurance companies so you don’t have to
Build a strong case for full and fair compensation

You’ve already been through enough. Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on healing and recovery.

📞 Call us today at: (916) 314-2207
💬 Or visit: kreegerlaw.com/contact to schedule your free consultation now

Your future matters. Get the experienced legal support you deserve.