Let’s learn more about the percentage of motorcycle riders that get into accidents. Be aware and Be safe.
The sense of freedom that a motorcycle ride gives is intoxicating. But no matter how well-trained you are as a rider and how strictly you comply with safety regulations, accidents are still bound to happen. You are more vulnerable to weather and road hazards on a motorcycle than in a closed vehicle. Motorcycle accidents may involve not just the rider but the back passenger and other road users as well.
It is always hard to tell what percentage of motorcycle riders get in accidents because a lot of them go unreported, especially minor accidents. The ones that get reported are usually involving rider injuries or fatalities. Crashes involving scooters, pocket and minibikes, mopeds, 2 or 3-wheeled and off-road motorcycles all makeup motorcycle accidents statistics.
United States’ registered motorcycles and license applications increase every year, with around 8.3 million currently registered motorcycles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were a total of 84,000 reported motorcycle-related injuries during the year 2019, 5,014 were fatal, and 30% of them were without valid licenses. Some of the motorcycle accidents include hit and runs, side-swept crashes, head-on collisions, left turn crashes, etc. Injuries you can sustain from the accident may include broken bones, concussions, head injuries, dislocations, etc.
Even if you didn’t get any physical injury in the crash, it is still best to report the incident and have a proper checkup with medical professionals for proper documentation of anything that can arise from the accident. Proper documentation will be vital if you want to pursue legal claims against the party at fault.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Driving a motorcycle is very different from driving a car. Having good judgment, balance and coordination make up a good motorcyclist. Before you get excited riding on the open road, make sure you get used to the feel of your new ride. Take time to get comfortable riding it first before hitting the open road. There are a number of things that can go wrong on the road. Here are some of the common causes of motorcycle accidents.
Overspeeding
Speed limits are there for a reason. Collisions from overspeeding often lead to severe, long-term injuries and even death. In 2019, 33% of all fatal crashes were due to overspeeding. When you are going too fast, the amount of time for you to react to other drivers, weather or other road hazards is significantly reduced.
Driving Under the Influence
Drunk driving caused 29% of rider fatalities in 2019. Alcohol stimulates the brain to release dopamine, the “happy hormone” which may cause you to feel more confident, enough to think that you can still manage to drive safely. Your concentration, reaction time and decision-making are all impaired when you are drunk.
Ignoring Traffic Signs and Signals
It only takes one driver ignoring the traffic signs and signals to cause an accident. Unless you do it intentionally due to some emergency, distracted driving is the most common cause. You might have missed a turn because your mind is wandering off while driving, or you didn’t notice another vehicle signaling to change lanes or passing.
Weather Conditions
If you are not confident driving on a wet road or during a rain shower, stop somewhere and wait for the rain to stop or the road to dry up a little. Poor visibility plus slippery, wet road conditions are a deadly combo to both new and experienced riders alike. Riders are also more vulnerable to unfavorable weather conditions because they have no other barrier between them, the road and the other vehicles, aside from their protective suit and helmet.
Road or Lane Splitting
This usually happens during heavy traffic. Riders will attempt to make their way in between halted or slow-moving vehicles and keep on trying to move forward. Cars and trucks have blind spots that make it harder for the drivers to notice motorcyclists, causing the accidents. If this is the case, the motorcyclist will be the one at fault.
Things to Consider Before and During Every Ride
Check your motorcycle before leaving the house. Make sure that you have the proper tire pressure, brakes and see if all lights are working. If you have cargo, secure it properly and make sure the load is balanced. If you are not used to carrying cargo or having a passenger, drive slower than usual to make sure that you have enough time to stop, find balance or to react to any road hazards.
Ride responsibly. Always wear proper riding gear. Wearing leather or heavy denim that can protect your arms and legs not only from a possible crash but from sun burns and dehydration as well. Riding boots and gloves can also offer additional protection. Never forget to wear your helmet. Make sure the helmet you have is Department of Transportation-compliant because it will protect your head from possible collision and concussion during accidents.
What to Do in Case of a Motorcycle Accident
If you own a motorcycle, it is best to get familiarized with your state’s existing traffic laws and motorcycle accident claims. There are motorcycle accident lawyers who specialize in these types of claims. Not all injuries and damages from motorcycle accidents are visible or physical. You may not have any scratches at all but it may leave you with a trauma.
If you get involved in a motorcycle accident, report it to the proper authorities – call 911, the police or consult a lawyer. Insist on getting checked in a clinic or hospital, no matter who is at fault. It is important to document everything to help you in possible settlement negotiations.
Physical, emotional and psychological damages from the accident may impact your life, so support during recovery is very important. This will cost you money, plus the cost for the motorcycle repairs.
If you are the victim, you can ask for financial support from the party at fault. They may point you to their insurance providers, or raise a defense on your negligence claim. Getting a motorcycle accident lawyer will help you get compensated for all damages. This may include all medical bills, therapy expenses, motorcycle repairs, and all other financial support to help you focus on getting well.
Hire Warner & Warner, the Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Orlando
Warner & Warner is one of the best motorcycle accident law firms in Orlando. Over the years, we have proven our outstanding quality of service and helped our clients get the justice they deserve. Call us right now at 321 450 7928 for a free case review or contact us through our form.