[07-20-2025] Kern County, CA – Motorcyclist Critically Injured in Crash with Minivan at Union Avenue and 34th Street in Bakersfield

A motorcyclist sustained critical injuries in a collision with a minivan in Bakersfield on Sunday night, July 20, 2025.

According to the Bakersfield Police Department, the crash occurred at approximately 10:32 p.m. at the intersection of Union Avenue and 34th Street, near Memorial Hospital.

Responding officers found a male motorcyclist with severe injuries at the scene. The victim was transported by ambulance to a local hospital, where he remained in critical condition as of midnight Monday.

A preliminary investigation revealed that a gray Honda minivan was making a left turn from northbound Union Avenue to westbound 34th Street when it collided broadside with the southbound motorcycle.

Police said the driver of the minivan, a woman, stayed at the scene and cooperated with authorities. Impairment is not believed to be a factor in the crash.

The incident remains under investigation.

Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Bakersfield, CA

Motorcycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries that change a person’s life in an instant. When a rider is struck by another vehicle, the impact may lead to long hospital stays, complex medical treatment, and significant emotional and financial stress for both the victim and their family.

Our motorcycle accident lawyers in Bakersfield can help you understand what legal options may be available after a serious collision. An attorney may assist with reviewing police reports, evaluating evidence, and identifying potential sources of recovery related to medical expenses, lost income, or long-term care.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, you may contact us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

Steps To Take After A Motorcycle Accident

A motorcycle accident can lead to serious injuries, often leaving victims and their families uncertain about what to do next. Taking certain steps after the crash may help protect your health, keep important information organized, and offer guidance as you begin to move forward.

1. Get Medical Attention Immediately
   If you’ve been injured, seek emergency care right away. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately, especially after a high-impact crash. Prompt medical treatment can help stabilize your condition and create a clear medical record, which may be important later on.
2. Preserve Evidence And Documentation
   If possible, keep records of all medical visits, diagnostic results, prescriptions, and any other expenses related to the accident. Photos of the crash scene, your injuries, and damage to your motorcycle may also be helpful. If witnesses were present, try to document their contact information.
3. Be Careful With Insurance Communications
   Insurance adjusters may reach out quickly after the crash. While it’s important to cooperate, you do not have to provide detailed statements or accept a settlement without understanding the full extent of your injuries and losses. It may be helpful to wait until your condition stabilizes.
4. Consider Speaking With A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
   Legal guidance can help you understand what steps may be available based on your situation. An attorney may assist with preserving evidence, reviewing insurance policies, and explaining your rights under California law. Every case is unique, and early legal support might help protect your interests moving forward.

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.