Motorcycle accidents are a leading cause of death and injury in the United States. Each year, more than 4,000 people are killed and tens of thousands are injured in motorcycle accidents. While many factors can contribute to these crashes, one of the most common is roadway debris.
When left unchecked, debris can create hazards for motorcycle riders, leading to serious and even fatal accidents. To help reduce the risk of such accidents, riders need to be aware of the dangers posed by debris on the road.
Additionally, riders should take care to avoid riding in areas where there is known to be a high concentration of debris. By taking these precautions, riders can help keep themselves safe from the dangers of roadway debris.
Motorcycle accidents tend to be big news. Here are seven facts about motorcycle accidents that will haunt you:
In 2016, There were 5,286` Motorcycle Fatalities in the United States
It was representing a 28% increase from 2015. This represents 14% of all motor vehicle crash fatalities for the year. And while motorcyclists only represent 3% of all registered vehicles and 0.7% of all vehicle miles travelled in 2016, they accounted for 8.3% of all traffic fatalities
Alcohol Use is a Factor in 30% of All Motorcycle Fatalities
This is a troubling statistic, particularly given the fact that motorcyclists are already at a higher risk of being involved in an accident than other drivers.
One of the reasons for this is that motorcyclists are more likely to take risks while on the road is drunk driving.
They are also less visible to other drivers, and their vehicles offer less protection in the event of a collision. When alcohol is added to the mix, the results can be disastrous.
Nearly Two-thirds of All Fatal Motorcycle Accidents Involve the Motorcycle and No Other Vehicles
Motorcycles are much more vulnerable than other vehicles on the road, and they often lack the safety features that can help to protect riders in an accident.
As a result, riders are at a heightened risk of serious injury or death in a crash. This risk is especially high for riders who do not wear helmets or other proper safety gear.
Speed is a Factor in Almost Half of All Fatal Motorcycle Accidents
There are a few reasons why speeding is so dangerous for motorcyclists. First, it increases the chances of losing control of the bike.
Second, it makes it more difficult to avoid obstacles on the road. And finally, it reduces the amount of time that other drivers have to react to a motorcycle on the road.
As a result, speeding is a major contributing factor to motorcycle accidents, and it’s one that all riders should be aware of.
Motorcycle Riders are 26 Times More Likely than Passenger Car Occupants to Die in a Traffic Accident
They are also five times more likely to be injured.
Motorcycle riders lack protection in an accident. Unlike cars and trucks, motorcycles offer no barrier between riders and the road surface. This can lead to devastating injuries if riders are thrown from their bikes in a collision.
Helmets are Estimated to be 37% Effective
They prevent fatal injuries to motorcycle riders and are 41% effective for motorcycle passengers.
It’s important to remember that wearing a helmet can significantly improve your chances of surviving a motorcycle accident. So if you’re planning on hitting the road on two wheels, always make sure to wear a helmet. It could just save your life.
Only One-third of Riders Wear Helmets
This happens in states where helmets are not required by law.
Head injuries are a leading cause of motorcycle fatalities, and even a minor head injury can leave a rider with lifelong disabilities. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of sustaining a head injury in an accident, yet so many riders choose to ride without one.
In addition to increasing the risk of head injuries, riding without a helmet also increases the risk of being involved in a fatal accident. Per mile travelled, motorcycles are nearly 35 times more likely than cars to be involved in a fatal accident. Helmet use reduces this risk by about 42 percent.
Riders who choose not to wear helmets not only put themselves at risk but also increase the burden on the healthcare system and taxpayers. Head injuries are costly to treat, and often require long-term care. When motorcyclists are involved in accidents without insurance, the costs of their care often fall on taxpayers.
Wearing a helmet may not be required by law, but it is certainly the responsible choice for riders.
What to Do if You are Involved in a Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle accident, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible, even if you do not think you are seriously injured.
Many common injuries, such as concussions and whiplash, can have delayed symptoms that may not appear until hours or days after the accident. In addition, it is important to document the accident by taking photos of the scene and getting the contact information of any witnesses.
If possible, you should also file a police report. This will create an official record of the accident, which can be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action. Sometimes if attorney fails to untie the issues before the case getting into complex they just hold you in the middle of the ocean. Like consulting with a right experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at Finkelstein & Partners who can help you navigate the complex legal process easily and protect your rights.
Image Source: BigStockPhoto.com (Licensed)
Related Categories: General
