As we step into a new year, it is important to reflect on the legal trends that shaped the year before. In 2025, personal injury claims continued to rise across California, driven by increased traffic, growing use of rideshare services, urban congestion, and everyday hazards that too often go ignored. Understanding the most common types of personal injury claims helps individuals recognize when they may have legal rights and why early legal guidance matters.
Below is a breakdown of the personal injury claims we saw most frequently in 2025 and why they continue to impact so many people.
Car Accidents Remained the Leading Cause of Injury Claims
Motor vehicle accidents once again topped the list in 2025. With more drivers back on the road, heavier freeway congestion, distracted driving, and higher speeds, collisions became more frequent and more severe. Rear end crashes, intersection accidents, and freeway pileups were among the most common scenarios. Many victims initially believed their injuries were minor, only to experience lasting pain weeks or months later. These cases often involved complex insurance disputes and required strong advocacy to secure fair compensation.
Rideshare Accidents Continued to Increase
Uber, Lyft, and other rideshare platforms played a major role in 2025 injury claims. As rideshare usage grew, so did accidents involving passengers, drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. These cases are uniquely complicated due to layered insurance policies and corporate liability issues. Many injured individuals were surprised to learn that rideshare companies often resist responsibility, making experienced legal representation critical.
Slip and Fall Injuries Were a Close Second
Slip and fall accidents remained one of the most underestimated yet serious categories of personal injury claims. In 2025, we saw a significant number of injuries caused by wet floors, uneven walkways, broken stairs, poor lighting, and neglected property maintenance. These incidents frequently occurred in grocery stores, apartment complexes, parking structures, and workplaces. While often dismissed as simple accidents, slip and fall injuries regularly result in fractures, head trauma, and long term mobility issues.
Motorcycle Accidents Resulted in Severe Injuries
Motorcyclists continued to face disproportionate risk on the road. In 2025, motorcycle accident claims often involved catastrophic injuries due to lack of physical protection and driver negligence. Left turn collisions, unsafe lane changes, and failure to yield were among the most common causes. These cases required aggressive representation to counter bias against riders and ensure proper valuation of injuries.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents Saw a Noticeable Rise
With more people walking and biking for transportation and recreation, pedestrian and bicycle accidents increased throughout 2025. Many of these incidents occurred at crosswalks, intersections, and in areas without proper bike infrastructure. Injuries ranged from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries, often caused by drivers failing to pay attention or obey traffic laws.
Dog Bite Claims Continued to Affect Families
Dog bite injuries remained a consistent source of personal injury claims, especially involving children. California’s strict liability laws make dog owners responsible in many situations, yet victims are often unsure of their rights. In 2025, dog bite cases frequently involved serious infections, scarring, and emotional ides that required both medical care and legal intervention.
Why These Trends Matter Moving Forward
The patterns from 2025 highlight a critical truth. Personal injury cases are not rare events, and they rarely resolve themselves fairly without help. Insurance companies continue to prioritize minimizing payouts, even when injuries disrupt lives, careers, and families. Knowing your rights and acting quickly can make the difference between a denied claim and meaningful compensation.
As we move into a new year, BNG Legal Group remains committed to standing up for injured individuals during their most difficult moments. Whether the injury stems from a car accident, a fall, a rideshare crash, or another preventable incident, experienced legal guidance can help protect your future.
If 2025 taught us anything, it is that accountability matters and so does having the right team on your side.