[07-03-2025] Los Angeles County, CA – Motorcyclist Killed, Passenger Injured in Two-Vehicle Crash at Downey Avenue and South Street in Long Beach

A 20-year-old motorcyclist was killed and a female passenger was injured in a two-vehicle crash in Long Beach on Thursday night, July 3, 2025.

According to the Long Beach Police Department, the collision occurred around 9:20 p.m. near the intersection of Downey Avenue and South Street.

Officers arrived to find the motorcyclist lying in the southbound lanes of Downey Avenue, north of South Street, and his passenger on the west sidewalk nearby.

The man, identified as Jonathon P., was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was transported by paramedics to a hospital. Her condition was not immediately known.

Investigators said the pair were riding a 2008 Honda CBR motorcycle eastbound on South Street toward Downey Avenue when a 2012 Toyota 4Runner turned left to go northbound on Downey, resulting in the collision.

Police stated that speed and distracted driving are being investigated as possible contributing factors.

The investigation is ongoing.

Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers In Long Beach, CA

Motorcycle accidents, especially those resulting in fatalities, can be devastating for victims and their families. Understanding your legal rights after such a crash is essential for exploring your options and seeking compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, and other damages.

Motorcycle accident lawyers in Long Beach can help you review the circumstances of a fatal motorcycle collision. Legal support may include reviewing accident reports, assisting with insurance claims, and explaining how compensation may be pursued for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Early legal guidance can help clarify your options and ensure your rights are protected.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a left-turn accident, call our personal injury lawyers in Long Beach at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident In Los Angeles County, CA

Motorcycle accidents, particularly those involving fatalities, can be overwhelming for surviving family members. Taking the right steps afterward may help protect your rights and preserve important evidence for future claims.

1. Call 911 And Seek Medical Attention
   Immediately report the accident to emergency services and ensure that anyone injured receives prompt medical care. Even minor injuries should be evaluated, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Document The Scene And Injuries
   If it is safe, take photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. This documentation can assist with insurance claims or legal matters.
3. Gather Information From Witnesses
   Collect names and contact details from any witnesses to the accident. Their statements can provide important insight into the circumstances of the collision.
4. Consult With Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
   A lawyer can explain your legal options, assist with insurance matters, and ensure that time-sensitive evidence is preserved. Early consultation from car accident lawyers in Long Beach may also help protect your rights and ensure your case is handled properly.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle crashes often result in more severe consequences than other types of traffic accidents. Riders and passengers have limited protection, and even a single impact can lead to major injuries or loss of life. Many serious motorcycle collisions happen at intersections or during turns, where visibility and reaction time are critical.

Compared to drivers in enclosed vehicles, motorcyclists face greater physical exposure and are less likely to be seen by others on the road. Some motorcycles are also designed for high-speed performance, which can make sudden changes in traffic conditions more dangerous.

In 2023, a total of 6,335 motorcyclists died in crashes across the United States. That figure represented a 26 percent increase from 2019 and was the highest number ever recorded. Motorcycles accounted for only about 3 percent of all registered vehicles, yet they made up 15 percent of all traffic-related deaths in the same year. The number of motorcyclist fatalities in 2023 was nearly three times higher than it was in 1997.

According to federal data, the fatality rate for motorcycle riders per mile traveled was nearly 22 times higher than for occupants of passenger cars in 2022.

These statistics show why motorcyclists face a higher risk of serious harm and why safety remains a major concern for everyone who shares the road.