Riding a motorcycle offers a level of freedom that car drivers often don’t experience. A motorcyclist has more maneuverability and experiences nature in a more direct way, but there is a trade-off. All of that freedom makes the rider more vulnerable.
Even a slight tap by a vehicle on the rear of a motorcycle can cause the bike to spin, ending in a spill with the rider taking a serious tumble across the road.
That is not to say that people should give up riding motorcycles. They should just be aware of the risks of what it means to get into a serious motorcycle accident. If another driver’s negligence caused that accident, the motorcyclist is entitled to seek compensation for their losses. They should not be required to pay for medical expenses or lost wages resulting from an accident that wasn’t their fault.
That’s when the Charleston motorcycle accident lawyers at Forbes Law Offices can help. We can help identify the at-fault parties and enter into negotiations with the insurance company.
Our goal is to find a swift resolution that will enable our clients to achieve the maximum benefits they are entitled to. Whether you’re a new rider or have years of experience, you might wonder what percentage of motorcycle riders get into accidents.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
According to the most recent data collected by the National Safety Council (NSC), 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in 2023. Even though motorcycles account for just 3% of the registered vehicles, they account for 15% of all traffic fatalities. The number of fatalities has actually increased by 1% over the previous year. The injury rate has increased by 19%.
The NSC also found the following percentages about how, where, and when motorcycle fatalities occurred:
- On urban roads (64%)
- In good weather (94%)
- During daytime (49%)
- In crashes involving two vehicles (56%)
- When wearing helmets (62%)
It is also interesting to note that while driving under the influence is a factor in some of the motorcycle fatalities, 74% of those fatal crashes did not involve DUIs.
What Are the Most Common Safety Hazards for Motorcyclists?
Every driver should be a defensive driver. That means following the rules of the road but also anticipating all the potential safety hazards and making the proper adjustments. The following are the most common safety hazards for motorcyclists:
Lack of Visibility
A motorcycle is smaller than a car, making it more difficult for car drivers to see, especially when motorcycles switch lanes or approach in a car’s blind spots. The lack of visibility can increase the risk of collisions.
Road Conditions
Potholes, uneven roads, or oil spills are safety hazards for any vehicle. Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to poor road conditions.
Distracted Driving
When a car driver is texting, talking on their cell, adjusting the radio, smoking, eating, or drinking while they’re behind the wheel, they are distracted. They might not notice an approaching motorcyclist. It only takes a fraction of a second of diverted attention to trigger an accident.
Intersection Collisions
Nearly half of all vehicle crashes happen at intersections. A car driver can misjudge the distance of an approaching motorcycle or its speed, and that can lead to an accident. You can’t avoid intersections, but they are an area that warrants extra caution.
Speeding
The faster a vehicle travels, the more the driver of that vehicle loses control. Speed also increases the force of an impact in an accident, which is particularly dangerous for motorcyclists who could be struck in the rear or side-swiped by a speeding car.
Lack of Protective Gear
In addition to being responsible when driving, motorcyclists also need to be accountable before they get on their bike. That means including gearing up with helmets, pants, gloves, and boots designed for protection for motorcyclists. Failure to wear that gear can increase the chances of head injuries, fractures, and cuts.
Weather Conditions
Every driver needs to exercise caution in bad weather. West Virginia residents experience rain, strong winds, fog, snow, and ice throughout the year. If a motorcyclist is caught in a storm, the chances of getting into an accident increase. In those situations, it is advisable to pull off the road or avoid driving altogether.
Lack of Experience
The lack of driving experience for a motorcyclist makes them more susceptible to getting involved in an accident. That’s why it is vitally important for new riders to get as much practice on safe roads as possible. It’s also important to practice driving at night when there are even more challenges.
What Happens After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you’re a motorcyclist involved in an accident, you may face a lengthy recovery period.
Those mounting medical bills and missed time from work can put a strain on your entire family. In an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, you’re entitled to recover your losses. The attorneys at Forbes Law Offices can provide you with the information you need to decide your best course of action.
We’ve helped many clients recover the maximum compensation they were due as a result of an accident caused by a negligent driver. You owe it to yourself to discover what your available options are.
Call to set up a free consultation, and let’s talk about what happened.
