[06-04-2025] Kern County, CA – 85-Year-Old Motorcyclist Killed in Crash on Highway 178 Near Ridgecrest

An 85-year-old man was killed following a motorcycle crash with another vehicle in Kern County near Ridgecrest on Wednesday night, June 4, 2025.

According to the Kern County Coroner’s Office, the incident occurred around 8:20 p.m. on Highway 178 at North Calvert Boulevard.

The victim, identified as John T. of Ridgecrest, was riding a motorcycle when he collided with another vehicle.

The rider was transported to Ridgecrest Regional Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.

The California Highway Patrol is handling the investigation into the cause of the crash.

Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers In Kern County, CA

Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe injuries that impact both your physical and emotional well-being. Recovery may require medical treatment, time off work, and dealing with insurance claims. While motorcyclists have the same rights as other drivers, they face greater risks due to the limited protection motorcycles provide.

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, understanding your legal options is crucial to knowing what steps to take next. Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Kern County are here to help by reviewing your case, organizing the necessary documents, and explaining the potential legal paths you can pursue.

To schedule a free consultation, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After Sustaining Injuries In A Motorcycle Accident

The most important step to take following a motorcycle accident is to stay calm. By keeping a clear mind, you can carefully navigate the aftermath of the accident. Here are some recommendations on what steps to take:

1. Check yourself for injuries. Avoid moving too much if you suspect a back or neck injury.
2. Call 911 to get emergency help. Wait for the paramedics and authorities to arrive.
3. Gather evidence, such as photos and videos of your injuries, damage to your vehicle, and other important factors that can help demonstrate what happened.
4. Gather information from all involved parties. If there are any witnesses, collect their contact details as well.
5. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. A comprehensive physical evaluation can uncover injuries that might not be immediately apparent.
6. Consult with our motorcycle accident lawyers in Kern County. We will assess your legal options and discuss your rights in a free consultation.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcyclists are at a significant disadvantage in traffic accidents, as they’re more likely to sustain severe or fatal injuries. According to 2022 data from the National Safety Council, motorcycles made up just 3% of all registered vehicles and accounted for less than 1% of all vehicle miles traveled in the United States. However, riders represented 14.6% of all traffic fatalities and 3.5% of injuries. The disproportionate numbers clearly underscore the heightened risks motorcyclists face on the road compared to drivers.