There are more motorcycles in recent years than ever in the United States, with over 8.6 million registered riders hitting the road. Exploring the open road on two wheels can be exhilarating, but it comes with its fair share of risks.
Motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating consequences, raising concerns about rider safety. In this article, we will delve into the statistics surrounding motorcycle accidents, their common causes, and the steps riders can take after an accident occurs.
What is the Rate of Motorcycle Accidents?
Every year, approximately 89,000 motorcycle accidents occur on American roads. This statistic translates to just over 1% of registered motorcyclists being involved in accidents annually. However, it's important to note that many minor crashes often go unreported, suggesting that the actual figures may be higher. Among these reported accidents, over 5,000 result in fatalities, while the rest lead to severe injuries.
What are the Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents can be attributed to various factors, with some of the most prevalent causes including:
- Drunk Driving: High blood alcohol concentration impairs a rider's reaction time, increasing the likelihood of collisions and fatalities.
- Head-on Collisions: Motorcyclists' maneuverability on the road allows them to navigate around cars more easily. However, this advantage can lead to head-on collisions with other vehicles or objects when timing is unfavorable.
- Ignoring Traffic Signals and Distracted Driving: Other vehicles not adhering to traffic signals or distracted driving, especially when making left turns, can pose significant risks to motorcyclists. Failing to notice an oncoming motorcycle while making a turn can result in serious collisions.
- Exceeding Speed Limits: Speeding reduces reaction time for both riders and other road users, often leading to high-speed accidents with severe injuries or fatalities.
It's important to remember that the circumstances of each motorcycle crash can vary, but these common factors contribute to many accidents. Often, fatal accidents involving motorcyclists are a result of other road users' dangerous behavior. However, riders who drive under the influence or exceed speed limits can also endanger those around them.
How Does a Motorcycle Accident Compare to a Car Accident?
While motorcycle riders are not the sole victims of road accidents, they face unique risks. Motorcycle fatalities account for approximately 14% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States. This may seem like a small percentage, but when considering the number of motorcyclists compared to other road users, it highlights the increased vulnerability of riders.
In fact, motorcyclists are 35 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than those using other types of vehicles. This heightened risk is due to the limited protection motorcyclists have in crashes and their susceptibility to adverse weather conditions. The injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents, such as head injuries, road rash, broken bones, and fatal injuries, are often more severe.
How Can Motorcycle Riders Get Help After an Accident?
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident on the road, then it is important to get help with your recovery. These are the steps that you should prioritize:
- Medical Attention: Seek immediate medical attention for any serious injuries. Remember that motorcycle accidents can result in not only physical but also psychological injuries like post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Emotional Support: Recognize the importance of emotional recovery and seek support for any psychological trauma you may experience.
- Legal Assistance: Consider consulting a motorcycle accident lawyer. They can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other expenses related to the accident. An experienced attorney will guide you through the legal process, gather evidence, meet deadlines, and provide valuable advice throughout your case and insurance claim.
An experienced accident lawyer will advocate for you by compiling evidence about the crash, meeting submission deadlines, and representing your interest in court or legal meetings. They will also be able to provide legal advice about the best way to move forward and help navigate insurance claims.
Get Support Today
Motorcycle riders face significant risks on the road, particularly when sharing it with cars and commercial vehicles that offer more protection. However, if you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in California, it is important that you do not face the aftermath alone. At Chandler Law, we have expert motorcycle accident attorneys ready to talk with you and provide a free case evaluation. We are here to help you secure the financial compensation you are entitled to recover. We only get paid if you get paid. All our work is done on a contingency basis, meaning you pay us nothing until we recover money for you.
Schedule a free case evaluation with a motorcycle accident attorney at Chandler Law by contacting us at (559) 825-2318. Hablamos español.