Motorcycling can be fun. They offer a sense of adventure that many people crave. However, there’s a sobering reality of increased risk of accidents beneath this exciting experience. Looking at cold, hard facts can help riders to understand fully the extent of this danger. To get a clear picture, bike crash statistics shed more light on the risks bikers take. This information can help raise awareness on safe riding practices.
Motorcycle Fatality Rates Are on the Rise
America recorded 3,714 incidences in 2000. The figure had climbed to 5,014 by 2019. This indicates a staggering 35% rise. These shocking figures clearly indicate how motorbike accidents have significantly climbed in recent decades.
The rising fatality rates may be because of:
- More bikes on the roads
- Larger, faster motorcycles that can reach higher speeds
- Lack of helmet use and other safety gear in some states
- More congested roads leaving less room to maneuver
Regardless of the cause, motorcycle riding is inherently risky. Bikers should always be prepared for any unexpected incident.
Leading Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
A thorough analysis of motorbike collision statistics is necessary. It helps us to identify factors that contribute to bike crashes, including:
1. Speeding
Many fatal bike accidents occur because of speed.
Here are some key stats:
Racing drivers were responsible for a whopping 37% of fatal crashes In 2018, Alcohol impairment contributes nearly half of these speed-related incidents. The likelihood of a deadly crash increases when intoxication is combined with fast driving. These severe accidents occur at an average speed of 55 miles per hour. When it exceeds 50 mph, the crash force goes up, causing severe consequences.
2. Alcohol Impairment
A rider’s ability to safely handle a motorbike is often affected by alcohol. It impairs and slows down reaction time. Plus, it hinders coordination and makes riding risky.
Consider these facts about drinking and bike crashes:
- A 28% of bikers died in crashes in 2018. Shockingly, many of them had a high blood alcohol content. Drinking significantly contributed to over 38% of all biker deaths that year.
- Even with a BAC below the legal limit, between 0.05% and 0.079%, motorcyclists were four times more likely to die in a solo crash compared to sober riders. This shows that impairment starts before you’re legally drunk.
- A startling 25% of motorbike riders that died in accidents in 2016 had a recent DUI offense – the highest among drivers.
It’s clear that mixing riding with drinking can be disastrous. Even small amounts of alcohol increase your risk of causing a grisly bike crash.
3. Lack of helmet use
A DOT-compliant helmet should be a rider’s best friend. Unfortunately, many don’t use these gears. To prove this, 46% of riders caught in severe crashes weren’t wearing helmets in 2018.
Who is Most at Risk?
Statistics for bike accidents reveal a specific group of riders with greater risk profiles:
- Age: The youth have an increased fatality rate per car miles traveled. For example, eligible riders under the age of 30 had a 44 per 100 million miles fatality rate in 2018. That significantly exceeded the required 23 per 100 million rate.
- Gender: Motorcycles killed over 80% of male riders. That occurred as a result of factors like speeding or not using a helmet.
- Licensing status: Lack of a valid motorcycle license contributed to 25% of badly injured bike operators in 2018. Adequate biker training helps to minimize risk. Unlicensed riders are 1.5 more vulnerable to alcohol impairment in deadly collisions compared to those that have it.
A motorcycle endorsement shows a rider’s awareness of safety rules. It also points to experience and cautious riding habits. By focusing on the groups most prone to accidents, riders can follow safety practices by wearing protective gear, and seeking additional training.
Motorcycle Death Rates Vary by State
Motorcycle fatality statistics also show large geographic differences across the U.S.
States with the highest fatality rates per registered motorcycle include:
- Montana – 106 deaths per 100k motorcycles
- Louisiana – 105 deaths per 100k motorcycles
- New Mexico – 104 deaths per 100k motorcycles
Meanwhile, states with the lowest fatality rates include:
- Massachusetts – 32 deaths per 100k motorcycles
- Minnesota – 46 deaths per 100k motorcycles
- Alaska – 51 deaths per 100k motorcycles
Regional differences in weather, road conditions, speed limits, helmet laws, rider training, and other factors likely contribute to these state-by-state variations. Riders should be extra vigilant when touring in states with higher motorcycle crash rates.
Costs of Motorcycle Crashes Add Up
On top of injuries and fatalities, motorbike collisions come with high economic expenses, including:
- Emergency medical expenses – According to the Center for Disease Control, bike crash costs that require hospital visits are over $55,000 on average. Severe injuries involving prolonged rehabilitation can be more costly.
- Lost productivity – If a rider is disabled or dies by a crash, they lose their future economic output and quality of life. NHTSA approximates nearly $814 million lifetime economic costs per fatal motorcycle crash.
- Vehicle damage – Replacement or repair costs for damaged motorbikes and other vehicles involved in a crash.
- Legal and court fees – Expenses that arise from the accident when lawsuits or other claims are filed.
- Insurance costs – : Insurers charge higher premiums for motorcycle collisions because they deem them more risky.
Fortunately, a specialized attorney can help you recover your losses. They will assemble strong evidence to present an airtight claim before a judge to win the case.
Key Takeaways on Motorcycle Safety
Reviewing the leading motorcycle accident statistics provides some clear lessons for staying safe on two wheels:
- Maintain safe speeds and allow extra stopping distance. Speeding severely worsens crash outcomes.
- Never ride impaired. Even small amounts of alcohol greatly increase risk.
- Wear helmets and protective gear – they save lives.
- Get formal training and maintain motorcycle licensing.
- Ride cautiously, especially in states with higher motorcycle fatality rates.
- Be alert to other motorists and road hazards. Car drivers often fail to notice bikes.
Although motorcycling can be risky, staying safe and smart is key. Bikers should learn more about motorbike practice and safety. Plus, they should have a positive mindset and exercise vigilance to ensure they have a joyful ride.
Finding the Right Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Consider seeking legal representation after sustaining bike collision injuries. Here are a few tips to get the right lawyer:
- Find an attorney familiar with motorcycle accidents: These legal experts understand motorbike rules and insurance regulations. However, severe cases like brain injuries should be handled by specialized lawyers.
- Choose an attorney who has better case outcomes similar to yours: Their history with related cases to yours indicates they can get fair results.
- Pick a lawyer who understands the court system well. They should also be familiar with local laws and insurance providers. This knowledge is key when seeking a just settlement or win for your case.
- Get someone with good communication skills: They should be ready to listen to your concerns and keep you updated with the legal process.
- Ask about their cost structure: Many lawyers work on contingency basis. They will only be paid when the case settles.
- Ensure the legal representative has enough staff. Having resources means they can thoroughly pursue the case on an individual basis to maximize claim payouts.
A competent motorcycle crash attorney can help you prevent costly mistakes. They will ensure you receive all the payouts you deserve..
Stay Alert, Stay Safe
Although motorcycling brings a sense of freedom, it’s necessary to acknowledge the risks involved. Safety should come first. Understanding what bike crash statistics indicate, riders can easily control their exposure to danger by:
- Riding defensively
- Staying focused
- Following road rules
Then, they can start enjoying their ride and get home safely. With alertness and good judgement, the roads can still be a rewarding place.
FAQs
What Motorcycle Has the Most Accidents
A motorbike that is commonly involved in accidents is the sport bike. This machine is specifically built for power and racing. These features often motivate riders to practice risky behavior like speeding and sudden lane changing.
Which State Has the Highest Motorcycle Fatality Rate
The state with the highest motorbike fatalities is Florida. Good roads and a bike friendly environment leads to increased risk of severe accidents. In addition, its warm climate attracts more riders to the state.
What Type of Motorcycle Has the Least Accidents
Motorcycles that have ABS safety features have the least accidents. Touring bikes fall in this category because of their comfort and wind protection ability. Bikes with ABS have more traction control, which makes them safer than those without.
Contact Us
Don’t leave settlement offers to chance. Contact us at (713) 804-8149 for free consultations. We will help you handle the legal process after a bike crash. Our experienced team has a proven record of results for injured riders. We can help maximize the compensation you receive.
