Motorcycle accidents are shockingly common. Motorcyclists are the highest-risk road users group, meaning they get into more accidents per mile traveled than any other.
If you want to learn more about motorcycle accident statistics and trends, this post is for you. We explore some accident rates and the common causes of deaths and injuries among motorcyclists on the road.
Overview of Motorcycle Accident Rates
Motorcycles comprise 3% of registered vehicles and 0.7% of miles traveled across the U.S. However, they account for 14.6% of all traffic fatalities and 3.5% of all injuries.
Furthermore, fatality rates are increasing. The NSC estimates that motorcyclist and passenger fatalities rose 1% between 2021 and 2022, pushing the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles to a staggering 16%.
Trends in Motorcycle Crashes
The trends in motorcycle crashes are also quite shocking.
For example, 94% of motorcycle accidents occur in good weather (usually because these conditions make motorcycling more pleasant). Furthermore, 50% occur in the daytime when visibility is good.
Sixty percent of fatalities occur with the motorcyclist wearing their helmet, while 72% of events occur when the motorcyclist is not impaired by alcohol.
Only two-thirds of accidents, however, occur in urban areas. Thirty-three percent happen in rural locations, despite the relatively low number of rider miles they attract.
Common Causes of Accidents
Motorcycle accidents come about for numerous reasons, some expected, others not. Each time it is a tragedy.
But what is driving the majority of collisions that result in injuries or fatalities?
Driver Negligence
Driver negligence leads the pack. Other road users often don’t see motorcyclists until it’s too late.
For example, many motorcyclists get hit in left-turn accidents. Drivers cut across them or don’t see them as they make maneuvers. They also get hit when drivers fail to check their blind spots during lane changes. These accidents are common on urban highways where traffic moves at different speeds across various lanes.
Finally, rear-end collisions are a culprit. Drivers sometimes slam into the back of motorcycles when traffic stops ahead if distracted or not concentrating.
Rider-Related Factors
But, while car drivers are responsible for many accidents, so are riders. Many motorcyclists buy high-powered bikes and lose control at high speeds.
Riders riding under the influence can also be an issue. As with drivers, it reduces their reaction times.
Inexperience can combine with these factors to make situations even more dangerous. New riders often don’t know how to handle emergencies, weaving through traffic, or riding too aggressively.
Road And Environmental Conditions
Road and environmental conditions can also play a role in accidents. Being more exposed and relying on two wheels, motorcyclists are more exposed.
Potholes, gravel, and wet surfaces can make roads hazardous, increasing the likelihood of a crash. These challenges often lead to loss of control, even when the riders are riding defensively.
Inclement weather can also play a role. Ice and water on the road surface increase the risk of skidding and slipping while fog reduces visibility.
Even poorly marked roads are a problem. Insufficient signage can lead to accidents where no party is at fault.
Mechanical Failures
Though rare, mechanical failures are another cause of motorcycle accidents. Vehicles can degrade to the point where they are no longer road-worthy.
For example, they may experience brake or tire failures. Worn-out components lead to increased stopping distances and unreliable performance.
Lighting issues can also cause hazards at night. Faulty head and brake lights can make motorcycles less visible on the road, leading other vehicles to crash into them.
Dooring Incidents
Dooring incidents are another driver of motorcycle accidents. Parked cars sometimes open their doors and the rider will crash directly into them.
Wildlife-Related Issues
Finally, motorcyclists can run into wildlife-related issues, such as animals on the road. Hitting these in a car doesn’t usually result in significant driver harm, but colliding on a motorcycle almost guarantees injury.
Insights on Safety Measures
Fortunately, motorcycles can take safety measures to protect themselves on the road. Adopting these fully requires maintaining concentration and taking every precaution possible.
Improved Riding Skills
Improving riding skills is the first line of defense. The more control riders have over their vehicles, the better.
Taking a motorcycle course is essential. These introduce the basics and ensure riders are correctly riding their vehicles. Going back for refresher sessions helps reinforce learning and correct techniques.
Practicing defensive driving is also a key skill. Predicting what might go wrong on the road keeps everyone safe. Related to this is the need to master emergency maneuvers. Motorcyclists who can avoid collisions and find a path to safety are far more likely to survive.
Wear Safety Gear
Wearing safety gear is another critical safety measure. Riders who use DOT-approved helmets can reduce injuries by 67% and fatalities by 37%. Proper leathers, pants, gloves, and boots are also critical as they offer additional protection in the event of a serious injury.
Riders should also wear reflective gear, especially at night. These garments can make them more conspicuous on the road and visible to distracted drivers.
Obey Traffic Laws
Riders should obey traffic laws to avoid injuries. Sticking to the speed limit and avoiding lane splitting can reduce the risk of accidents substantially.
Ride Sober
Riding sober is also important because of the sheer number of motorcycle accidents that involve alcohol. Around a third of riders get into trouble because they had a drink beforehand.
Be Cautious
Finally, riders should be cautious. They shouldn’t:
- Ride while tired or under the weather
- Ride with a bike with broken lights, deflated tires, poor fluid levels, or any other mechanical defect
- Ride fast in the rain or brake suddenly
- Ignore road hazards ahead
- Ignore the 2-4 seconds rule (meaning they should stay at least 2 seconds behind other road vehicles in optimal conditions, and 4 seconds behind them in poor conditions)
- Ride without preparing for emergencies
Have you been injured in a motorcycle accident? If so, contact our team for professional attorney advice and guidance.
