Most basilar skull fractures occur in the setting of severe head traumas, such as those caused by motor vehicle accidents, motorcycle crashes, or pedestrian injuries. Other less common causes include falls, penetrating injuries (e.g., gunshot wound), and assaults. Because of the high amount of force required to produce a basilar skull fracture, these types of fractures are more common in young individuals who are more likely to take part in high-risk activities (e.g., rock climbing, skydiving, bungee jumping, etc.).