RV travel has become a year-round activity across California. Whether you’re driving to national parks, coastal campsites, or mountain towns, recreational vehicles are a common sight on highways and rural roads. But as RV use increases, so do the risks of serious crashes.
If you’ve been injured in an RV accident in California—whether as a driver, passenger, or someone in another vehicle—you may be dealing with medical bills, lost income, and questions about who’s responsible. Understanding the risks associated with RVs and the legal options available after a crash can help you protect your rights and pursue compensation.
RV Accidents in California Are Not Limited to Summer Travel
RV crashes are often associated with summer vacation traffic, but incidents happen throughout the year. California’s mild climate and popular destinations make it a year-round hotspot for RV use. From weekend trips to Big Sur to longer stays in desert parks, RVs are on the road in every season.
Recent examples include:
- August 2025: A 9-year-old boy was killed and his 19-year-old brother was injured after being struck by an RV in Koreatown in Los Angeles while riding electric scooters. The 46-year-old RV driver was arrested on suspicion of DUI.
- March 2025: A 43-year-old man was left with major injuries after missing a turn and slamming the RV he was driving into a utility pole. The accident happened on Hammonton Smartsville Road in Yuba County. The passengers, a 45-year-old woman and two children, also suffered minor injuries in the crash.
- November 2024: Several parked cars were totalled after a suspected drunk driver behind the wheel of an RV rammed into them. When the 19-year-old owner of one of the mangled cars reached out to the driver’s insurance, he learned the policy was expired.
Common Factors in RV Accidents
RVs are larger, heavier, and more difficult to maneuver than standard passenger vehicles. Even experienced drivers can struggle with visibility, turning radius, and braking time. When mistakes happen, the consequences are often severe.
Common causes of California RV crashes include:
- Driver inexperience – Many RV operators are unfamiliar with the size and handling of the vehicle they’re driving, especially if it’s rented.
- Rollover risk – High center of gravity and uneven weight distribution can lead to tip-overs during sudden turns or high winds.
- Brake failure – Improper maintenance or overload can cause brake systems to overheat or malfunction.
- Speeding or following too closely – RVs require significantly more distance to come to a stop.
- Weather conditions – Rain, snow, fog, and crosswinds can all impact RV stability, especially on mountain roads.
- Mechanical failures – Tire blowouts and suspension issues are not uncommon, particularly in older or heavily used RVs.
Accidents involving RVs often cause more serious damage than typical vehicle crashes. Injuries can include fractures, spinal trauma, head injuries, or burns in the event of a fire.
How RV Accidents Are Different From Car Crashes
When an RV is involved, the legal and insurance issues can be more complex than in standard car accidents. That’s due to the range of parties that may be involved and the unique structure of RVs.
Key Differences:
- RV ownership and rental – Many RVs on the road are rentals. Liability may involve both the driver and the rental company, especially if maintenance is a factor.
- Multiple insurance policies – RVs may be covered by auto, homeowner’s, or commercial insurance depending on how they’re used.
- Mixed-use vehicles – Some RVs tow cars or trailers, adding complexity to any collision.
- Larger scale of damage – Due to the size and weight of RVs, collisions often involve multiple vehicles or extensive property damage.
If you were hit by an RV, or injured as a passenger inside one, sorting out liability is rarely straightforward. Your claim could involve more than just the driver’s personal auto policy.
What to Do After an RV Crash in California
If you’ve been involved in an RV accident in California, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and preserve evidence.
Immediately after the accident:
- Call 911 and seek medical attention, even for injuries that feel minor at first.
- Get contact information for all drivers, passengers, and witnesses.
- Document the scene with photos, including vehicle damage, license plates, road conditions, and signage.
- Avoid making statements to insurance companies without legal advice.
- Request a copy of the official accident report from the investigating agency.
In the days and weeks that follow:
- Keep all medical records and receipts.
- Track any lost income related to the injury.
- Consult a California personal injury attorney to review your options.
Accidents involving RVs often result in significant injuries and financial strain. Working with an experienced legal team can help ensure that no liable party is overlooked and that your claim is filed correctly.
Who May Be Liable in a California RV Crash?
Determining who is at fault in an RV crash isn’t always simple. Liability may fall on one or more of the following:
- The RV driver – For speeding, distraction, fatigue, or unsafe lane changes.
- Another driver – In cases of multi-vehicle accidents or dangerous passing.
- RV rental company – If a mechanical failure stems from poor maintenance or worn tires.
- Vehicle or parts manufacturer – For brake failure, tire defects, or other mechanical issues.
- Government entities – For poorly maintained roads, missing signage, or construction hazards.
An attorney can investigate the circumstances of the crash, obtain maintenance records, and work with experts to reconstruct what happened.
Filing an RV Injury Claim in California
Injury claims from RV accidents follow the same general principles as other personal injury cases in California, but often involve additional investigation and coordination with multiple insurers.
Key considerations:
- Two-year statute of limitations – California law generally gives you two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit. If a government agency is the defendant, the deadline may be as short as six months. In cases involving children, the statute of limitations may be paused. Check with a local attorney for the most up-to-date information.
- Comparative fault rules – If more than one party is at fault, liability can be shared proportionally.
- Insurance limits – RV owners and renters may carry different levels of liability coverage, and multiple policies may apply.
A qualified California personal injury attorney can help you assess the potential value of your claim and identify all available sources of compensation.
Talk to a California Personal Injury Attorney About Your RV Accident
If you’ve been injured in an RV accident in California—whether as a pedestrian, driver, or passenger—you may have grounds for a personal injury claim. Medical bills, missed work, and long-term rehabilitation can take a serious toll.
Penney & Associates has decades of experience handling complex vehicle accident cases across the state. Contact our team for a free consultation to review your situation and discuss your next steps
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