Bakersfield, CA (June 8, 2025) — A motorcyclist sustained major injuries Sunday evening after colliding with a loose horse on Houghton Road in Bakersfield, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The incident remains under investigation.
Incident Details: The crash occurred around 6:05 p.m. as a man was riding a 2021 Harley-Davidson motorcycle eastbound on Houghton Road, just west of Stine Road. CHP investigators reported that a horse entered the roadway, leading to a collision that ejected the rider from his motorcycle. The rider was transported to a hospital with serious injuries. Authorities confirmed that neither alcohol nor drugs were contributing factors in the crash.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: CHP has not determined how the horse became loose in the roadway. Investigators may explore whether the animal escaped due to inadequate fencing or negligent handling by its owner. In California, livestock owners can be held liable if they fail to secure their animals properly and someone is injured.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the injured motorcyclist may have grounds for a personal injury claim. These claims can help recover costs for medical care, long-term treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering following serious animal-related collisions.
Source: KGET