Las Vegas, NV (April 22nd, 2025) – Motorcycle fatalities in Las Vegas have surged in 2025, marking a troubling trend for riders and public safety officials alike.
As of April 13, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) reported a 40% increase from the fatalities recorded during the same period in 2024. This uptick reflects broader statewide concerns, with Clark County accounting for a significant portion of Nevada’s motorcycle-related deaths.
Factors Contributing to Fatal Motorcycle Accidents in Las Vegas
So far in 2025, 14 motorcycle or moped riders have been killed on Las Vegas roadways. Several of these fatal motorcycle collisions involved other vehicles, such as public buses, semi-trailers, and passenger cars. Numerous factors can contribute to the occurrence of motorcycle accidents in Nevada. Some of the most common factors contributing to the increasing number of motorcycle deaths include:
Speed and Reckless Behavior
Many of this year’s collisions have been linked to speeding. When a motorcyclist travels too fast, especially at night or in poor visibility, it reduces their ability to avoid hazards or respond to sudden movements from other drivers. For example, in March 2025, a rider died after slamming into a public transit bus. Investigators say speed was likely a factor.
Reckless maneuvers, weaving through traffic, and running red lights have also played a role in multiple fatal accidents.
Unlicensed Riders
Unlicensed riders account for a significant share of fatal motorcycle crashes in Nevada. Without proper training or testing, these riders often lack the skills or judgment needed to handle challenging traffic situations.
Other Drivers
Not all crashes are the motorcyclist’s fault. Distracted or inattentive drivers frequently contribute to collisions. Common scenarios include drivers:
- Changing lanes without checking for motorcycles
- Making left-hand turns across the path of oncoming riders
- Failing to yield at intersections
- Driving while distracted by phones, GPS systems, or other passengers
In many of the crashes investigated by the LVMPD in 2025, the motorcyclist had the right of way.
Legal Options After a Fatal Motorcycle Accident in Las Vegas
After a deadly motorcycle crash, surviving family members are often left with painful questions, and few clear answers. While law enforcement may investigate the incident, determining who can be held legally responsible and how to pursue compensation is an entirely separate process. However, Nevada law gives injured victims and families legal tools to recover financial support, hold negligent parties accountable, and find a measure of justice. Victims and their families may find it helpful to consult with Las Vegas motor vehicle accident attorneys who handle motorcycle-involved cases.
Who Can Be Held Liable?
Liability for a motorcycle accident depends on the circumstances of the crash. In Nevada, fault is based on negligence. As such, if someone failed to act with reasonable care, and that failure caused harm.
Potentially liable parties may include:
- Other drivers who made unsafe moves
- Companies responsible for road maintenance or signage
- Vehicle or motorcycle manufacturers (in cases involving mechanical failure)
- Public entities such as transit authorities
If the crash involves a public bus, as in the April 2025 incident, the case may involve additional legal steps to pursue a claim against a government agency.
What Compensation May Be Available?
Motorcycle accidents often lead to serious injuries or death, leaving victims and their families with significant financial and emotional burdens. In Nevada, those harmed by a negligent driver—or by another party responsible for the crash—may be entitled to various forms of compensation. These damages are intended to address both the immediate and long-term effects of the accident.
For injured motorcyclists, compensation can cover medical expenses, including emergency room visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care. If the injuries prevent the person from returning to work, they may also be able to recover lost wages and compensation for reduced earning potential. Non-economic damages—such as pain, suffering, and emotional distress—can also be awarded to acknowledge the physical and psychological toll of the crash.
Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Nevada
In fatal motorcycle accidents, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim. Under Nevada law, this type of claim allows a spouse, child, parent, or the personal representative of the deceased’s estate to seek compensation. Wrongful death damages can include the cost of funeral and burial services, loss of financial support, and the value of lost companionship, guidance, and care. These claims serve both to support the family during a difficult time and to hold negligent parties accountable for preventable deaths.
Motorcycle accident cases often present unique legal and practical challenges. Insurance companies are quick to blame riders, even when the facts suggest otherwise. They may use stereotypes about recklessness or risk-taking to avoid paying full compensation. As such, it may be helpful to work with a personal injury attorney. A lawyer can gather key evidence, work with crash reconstruction experts, and negotiate directly with insurers to protect your claim.
Our dedicated Las Vegas motorcycle accident lawyer at George Bochanis Injury Law Offices has more than 30 years of experience helping victims and their families to hold negligent parties accountable for such accidents. To discuss your options, contact our law offices today. 702-388-2005.
