Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

After Your Crash Injury Blog

Summer is the season that most motorcycle enthusiasts take to the road. However, riders should be aware of the risks involved in riding, not so that they do not ride, but rather that they ride with caution. I have personally known a rider who died as a result of a motorcycle accident, so this hits home for me. Unfortunately, most drivers/riders are unaware that in accidents involving a bike and a passenger vehicle, 98% of the time, the person killed in the crash would end up being the rider on the motorcycle. Also, 80% of all motorcycle accidents result in death or serious injuries.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 5,290 motorcyclists were killed and 96,000 were injured in 2008. Per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists are about 37 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a traffic crash.

Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents Include:

Alcohol – In 2008, 30% of fatally injured motorcyclists had blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels of .08g/dL or higher. An additional 7% had BAC between .01 and .07g/dL
Speeding – In 2008, 35% of all motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were speeding
Lack of Safety Training – 24% of all motorcyclists who died in a traffic collision were operating driving with an invalid license at the time of the accident
Negligence of other drivers – 70% of motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers failing to recognize motorcyclists
Poor road and weather conditions
Equipment failure

Some Tips for a Safe Ride

Wear a helmet! Helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle drivers and 41% for motorcycle passengers
Never drink and drive!
Obey the speed limit
Learn tips and techniques for safe driving
Stay informed of safety and traffic rules
Be aware of weather conditions before you ride
Wear proper clothing, eye and face protection
Use ear plugs to reduce hearing damage from wind noise

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, the most important step in protecting your legal rights is to meet with a skilled and experienced attorney to discuss your case. Please call (404) 436-1LAW today to meet with me.