Going Over Data on Motorcycle Crashes
As a motorcyclist, you need to recognize the myriad of risks you face every time you take to the road. From inclement weather to careless drivers and hectic traffic, motorcycle collisions occur for a host of reasons. On the road, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable and if you are seriously hurt in a crash, you need to look over all of your options as you try to piece your life back together.
By analyzing statistics on motorcycle accidents, motorcyclists can develop a clearer understanding of how widespread these crashes are and the impact of an accident.
Looking at Motorcyclist Injuries and Deaths
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the number of non-fatal motorcycle injuries increased by 2.6% from 2021 to 2022 in traffic accidents. Furthermore, the NHTSA reports that based on vehicle miles traveled, motorcyclist fatalities took place almost 22 times more often than those riding in passenger vehicles.
In 2022, more than 6,200 motorcyclists lost their lives in accidents – 15% of all traffic fatalities. This is the highest number of motorcyclist crash deaths in a single year since the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began collecting fatal motor vehicle crash data in 1975. Of these, 42% of motorcycle riders who died in single-vehicle crashes in 2022 were alcohol impaired.
Other Statistics on Motorcycle Accidents
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), 56% percent of motorcyclist deaths in 2022 occurred on major roads other than interstates and freeways. Deaths were more likely to occur in urban than rural areas (66% vs. 34%). Forty-six percent of motorcyclist deaths in 2022 occurred on weekends, and those deaths were more likely to occur after 6 p.m. compared with weekdays. Those who did wear helmets reduced their risk. Helmets are about 37% effective in preventing motorcycle deaths and about 67% effective in preventing brain injuries. Though Indiana law only requires motorcyclists 18 and under or those with a learners permit to wear a helmet, the protection a helmet provides makes it a good idea for all motorcyclists to wear a helmet.
Whether you ride a motorcycle during the day, at night, in a city or in a rural area, you could find yourself involved in a serious collision. If an accident happens because of a driver’s negligence, you need to examine your options.
