Top 5 California Motorcycle Destinations

The Golden State has long been a haven for motorcyclists, offering a variety of geographical backdrops to complement the joy of riding. California boasts of winding coastal highways, mountainous roads, tranquil woodlands, and other terrains. While we hope that visitors will enjoy their rides, we also recognize that accidents sometimes happen. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle crash, you have a trusted legal ally in Text Kevin Accident Attorneys. Here we recommend some of our favorite destinations for riders.

Pacific Coast Highway (PCH)

Also known as Highway 1, PCH is one of California’s most iconic stretches of road that some will argue is the best ride for motorcyclists. With hundreds of miles hugging the coastline, there are ample opportunities to stop and take in the scenery. Most enthusiasts don’t recommend trying to ride too much at one time, since you may miss something. PCH is better enjoyed in smaller increments over the course of several days. Some recommended paths include:

• Dana Point to Long Beach
• Malibu to Santa Barbara
• Big Sur to San Francisco

Venice Beach to Neptune’s Nest

A popular coastal seafood restaurant, Neptune’s Nest is an ideal destination in its own right but also a great place to stop during a motorcycle trip. We suggest starting from the famous Venice Beach boardwalk. You will spend about an hour riding along the Malibu coast to Neptune’s Nest, which offers expansive views of the ocean. This route takes you on about 13 miles of Highway 1, where salty breezes await you.

If you want a bit of a geographic detour on your way to Neptune’s Nest, you can visit one of several parks and reserves including Topanga State Park, Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, and Leo Carrillo State Park. Watch the curves and enjoy your time at Neptune’s Nest, knowing you will get to see the same beautiful scenery on your way back to Venice Beach.

Redwood Highway (101)

California is known for its majestic redwood forests, and this trek allows the motorcycling enthusiast to admire these natural wonders. There are many ways to access Redwood Highway, including south from US Highway 199 in Crescent City. This route takes the rider through Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park, offering down time among towering redwood trees and dense forests.

As with much of California’s geography, more than one type of terrain awaits riders. While motorcyclists can enjoy some of the largest existing trees in the country, you can also see beaches and oceans mixed with an array of different landscapes.

Joshua Tree National Park

For a more arid climate, take a ride through historic Joshua Tree National Park. Located about two hours from Los Angeles, it offers the ideal road trips with a mix of freeways and rural highways. Covering about 70 miles, this route should take around 90 minutes and will allow the rider to travel through dense woods and calm desert. It’s a good idea to wait until cooler winter weather because the summer climate can be harsh.

However, if you do plan a summer ride, consider making a morning or early evening trip out of it. Afternoon temperatures can soar up to 120 degrees, so it’s advisable to avoid riding from about 10 or 11 am through 5 and 6 pm. Regardless, be sure to stay hydrated and bring with you the standard motorcycle safety and preparedness equipment.

Emigrant Trail

Finally, something that may be a little different even for the California native. This route gives the rider a chance to see forests, lakes, snow-capped mountains, meadows, and even volcanic lava flows. The Emigrant Trail Scenic Byway is certainly unique and will leave the motorcyclist with a true appreciation for the natural beauty of our state.

You can begin your ride on route 299. Choose to either head east, with a short stop at Cedarville, or you can keep on riding through the Modoc Forest. Either path will eventually lead you to Tulelake. From here, there are several options you can explore, each as memorable as the next.

What To Do After An Accident

No matter the experience level, the motorcyclist is always faced with the threat of a potential accident. In the event you are involved in one, our firm advises that you do the following:

1. Seek medical attention immediately. Even if you believe you weren’t hurt or your injuries are minor, failing to see a doctor could aggravate your condition and jeopardize your legal claim.
2. Call law enforcement. You will want to share everything you know about the other driver so a police report can be generated, but keep the information you give to the police brief and don’t admit fault.
3. Get the other driver’s information. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver, and again avoid admitting fault or apologizing. If the driver doesn’t stop, try to get as many details as you can about the vehicle to pass on to the police.
4. Gather evidence from the accident scene. Take pictures of your motorcycle, the other vehicle, and the scene in general. Also write down as many notes as you can about the events surrounding the accident.
5. Contact your insurance company. Reach out to your insurer right away to begin the claims process. Follow all procedures for reporting the accident and don’t delay responding to requests from the adjuster, but again, do not admit fault.
6. Notify the DMV. In California, you must notify the Department of Motor Vehicles within ten days of any accident resulting in injury or property damage over $1,000.

Lastly, Speak With An Accident Attorney

You might be contacted by the at-fault driver’s insurance company. It’s important that you retain an accident attorney and refer any communications from insurers to your lawyer. Text Kevin Accident Attorneys can handle all aspects of your California motorcycle accident. One last tip: before you hit the open road, understand the right-of-way rules for motorcyclists. Enjoy your ride and let us know if we can serve you or your family.

Michael