Motorcycle accidents are more common than you might imagine. Likewise, they are more severe than you might imagine. Take a look at some enlightening statistics about motorcycle accidents and their aftermath.
How Many Motorcycle Accidents Result in Injuries or Death?
More than 80% of all motorcycle accidents end with an injury or fatality. However, that statistic alone doesn’t sum up the issue.
If you are in a motorcycle accident, you are more likely to be injured or killed than to remain uninjured. In 2015, almost 5,000 people died on motorcycles. Over the past few years, the number has been slowly decreasing. But that doesn’t mean that driving a motorcycle is without its risks. There are still many motorcycle accident-related injuries and deaths every year.
In fact, fatalities are 28 times more likely to occur on motorcycles compared to passenger vehicles. The lack of protection on motorcycles puts riders at risk every time they hit the road.
What Makes Motorcycle Injuries and Deaths so Common?
There are several factors that contribute to the high rate of injury and death among motorcycle riders. Here are a few reasons for the astonishing statistics:
1. Inclement Weather
When bad weather hits, motorcycle riding becomes more dangerous than usual. The road gets slick, which makes it easy to lose control. Visibility decreases and riders need to deal with the rain pelting down on them.
If motorcycle riders don’t seek cover in inclement weather, they put themselves at risk. The result could be a serious collision.
2. Drunk Driving
Car drivers aren’t the only ones on the road who are guilty of drinking and driving. Unfortunately, motorcycle riders also make the potentially deadly decision to drink and ride. About 25% of fatal motorcycle accidents involved drivers who had BACs greater than the legal limit.
While drinking and driving is dangerous in a car, it’s even more hazardous on a motorcycle. The slightest mistake can result in an accident.
3. Drugged Driving
Much like drunk driving, drugged driving also causes motorcycle crashes. In states with legalized marijuana, marijuana impairment is a somewhat common cause of accidents.
4. Distracted Driving
Across the US, distracted driving is taking center stage. It’s a common cause of all accidents, including motorcycle collisions.
The risk comes in two forms. First, it can come from other drivers. When other drivers are distracted, they don’t have their eyes on the road. They might not see you on your motorcycle. Secondly, the risk can come from the motorcycle rider. If you don’t give the road your full attention, you increase your risk of an accident.
5. No Helmets
Many motorcyclists choose to not wear a helmet. However, this decision contributes to the loss of hundreds of lives each year. By wearing a helmet, you can limit your injuries. Although you might suffer from broken bones and other injuries, you can protect your head.
What Does an Accident Mean for You?
If you are a victim of a motorcycle crash, you could face serious consequences. Fortunately, you might have an option for help. According to Cambre and Associates, an Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney can assist you in your journey towards compensation.
You could be eligible for money for your injuries, motorcycle damage, and even your pain. Motorcycle accident laws vary by state. If you want to learn more about receiving compensation for your accident, you should speak to a lawyer.
