Serious Head-On Motorcycle Crash in California

Head-On Motorcycle Collision on Twentynine Palms Highway Leaves Rider Seriously Injured

San Bernardino County, CA—A motorcyclist suffered major injuries in a head-on collision on Friday evening, October 24, 2025, along Twentynine Palms Highway near Mariposa Avenue. According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the crash occurred at approximately 5:04 p.m. The motorcycle was traveling eastbound when a second vehicle reportedly made a left turn from Hatch Road into the westbound lanes of the highway, resulting in a collision. The rider was transported to a local hospital and remains under treatment. The driver of the second vehicle stayed at the scene, and no arrests have been made as the investigation continues.

This serious crash underscores the heightened risks motorcyclists face on busy corridors like Twentynine Palms Highway, where turning traffic, high posted speeds, and mixed visibility at dusk can create hazardous conditions. While the official investigation will determine fault, collisions involving vehicles turning left across an opposing lane are a well-recognized scenario that often raises questions of right-of-way, driver attentiveness, and roadway design.

What We Know So Far

- Time and place: Approximately 5:04 p.m. on October 24, 2025, near Mariposa Avenue on Twentynine Palms Highway in San Bernardino County.
- Sequence of events: The motorcycle was traveling eastbound when a second vehicle turned left from Hatch Road into the westbound lanes of the highway.
- Injuries and response: The motorcyclist sustained major injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment.
- Ongoing investigation: The driver of the turning vehicle remained at the scene. No arrests have been announced at this time.

Left-Turn Collisions and California Right-of-Way

In California, drivers turning left must yield the right-of-way to oncoming traffic that is close enough to pose a hazard. Many severe crashes occur when a driver misjudges the speed or distance of an approaching motorcycle, fails to see the rider altogether, or attempts to “beat” oncoming traffic. Motorcycles’ smaller profiles make them less conspicuous—particularly in transitional lighting around sunset—so extra caution is required from all roadway users.

Although initial information suggests the turning movement preceded this collision, investigators will typically examine a wide range of factors, including:

- Whether either party was speeding or driving impaired
- Sightlines and obstructions near the intersection
- Timing of the turn and distance of the oncoming motorcycle
- Headlight use and visibility
- Roadway conditions, signage, and lighting
- Potential witness accounts and surveillance or dashcam footage

Comparative Fault in California

California follows a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means liability for damages can be apportioned between parties based on their respective degrees of fault. Even if an injured party is found partially responsible, they may still recover damages, reduced by their percentage of fault. In left-turn collisions, insurers and investigators often scrutinize whether the oncoming vehicle had the right-of-way and whether the turning driver yielded appropriately.

Key Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash

For those involved in a motorcycle or car accident in San Bernardino County, prompt, practical steps can protect health, preserve evidence, and support any insurance or legal claims:

- Call 911 and seek medical care: Immediate evaluation is critical, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries manifest hours or days later.
- Document the scene: If safe, photograph vehicle positions, debris, skid marks, traffic signals, and close-ups of damage and injuries.
- Identify witnesses: Obtain names, phone numbers, and brief statements if possible.
- Exchange information: Share driver’s licenses, insurance cards, plate numbers, and vehicle details.
- Preserve evidence: Keep damaged gear (helmet, jacket, gloves), medical records, and repair estimates. Avoid altering or discarding anything until advised.
- Be mindful when speaking to insurers: Provide factual information, but avoid speculation about fault or injuries until you’ve consulted counsel.
- Follow all medical advice: Consistent treatment records are important for recovery and for any claim.

Insurance Coverage and Medical Bills in California

Because California is an at-fault state, the at-fault driver’s liability insurance typically covers the injured party’s damages up to policy limits. Additional coverages to consider include:

- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM): Can help when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage.
- Medical Payments (MedPay): Optional coverage that may help pay medical bills regardless of fault.
- Health insurance: Often coordinates with auto claims; subrogation may apply if a third party is responsible.

Keep in mind that pain and suffering, lost wages, and diminished future earning capacity may also be part of a claim, in addition to property damage and medical costs.

Statutes of Limitations and Special Deadlines

In most California personal injury cases, you generally have two years from the date of the incident to file a lawsuit. Claims involving a public entity can have much shorter deadlines—often six months—to file a government claim before suing. Because deadlines and exceptions vary, speaking with an attorney early helps ensure key rights are preserved.

Motorcycle Safety and Roadway Awareness

Motorcyclists face unique risks due to their exposure and smaller visual profile. In 2021, approximately 5,932 motorcyclists died in traffic crashes nationwide, including 565 fatalities in California. While motorcycles represent a smaller fraction of vehicles on the road, crash severity tends to be higher. Safety measures that can mitigate risk include:

- Always wearing a DOT-compliant helmet (required by California law for riders and passengers)
- Using reflective or high-visibility gear and keeping headlights on
- Maintaining safe speeds and following defensive riding practices
- Anticipating left-turn conflicts and scanning for vehicles at intersections
- For drivers of passenger vehicles: look twice for motorcycles before turning or changing lanes, and avoid distractions

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Avian Law Group extends our sincere thoughts to those injured and affected by this serious head-on motorcycle collision. Motorcycle accidents often result in devastating injuries due to the limited protection riders have, and our hearts go out to all those recovering from this traumatic event.

At Avian Law Group, we are dedicated to standing up for victims of negligent and reckless driving. Our team works tirelessly to ensure that injured individuals and their families receive the justice and compensation they deserve while navigating the challenges of recovery.

If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Avian Law Group today for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys are here to provide compassionate guidance and strong legal representation every step of the way.