If you or a loved one are a motorcycle crash victim, these statistics won’t surprise you. There’s a good chance the accident wasn’t your fault. And, in the case of a fatal crash, someone other than the rider may be responsible.
No doubt that bikers have a bad name when it comes to taking risks. For the most part, it’s ill-deserved. After all, anyone who hops on a motorcycle recognizes their vulnerability.
In the meantime, there’s some good news from a couple of years ago. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), fatal motorcycle accidents declined by 3% from 2016 to 2017. Nonetheless, 5,172 people lost their lives as a result of a motorcycle crash in 2017. More recent statistics are unavailable.
It doesn’t take speed for a fatal accident. The impact with a larger vehicle suggests horrific results. For those who aren’t killed, there’s always the chance of serious and permanent injuries, including the following:
- Loss of limbs
- Traumatic brain injury
- Road rash
- Severe lacerations
- Broken bones
- Disfigurement
While some motorcycle crashes suggest the biker was at least partially to blame, many do not. Unfortunately, you or a loved one may already understand how a motor vehicle operator’s negligence can cause harm.
Statistics Involving Motorcycle Crashes
When it comes to fatal motorcycle crashes, authorities report that over 50% of accidents involve head-on collisions. Motorists making left turns also pose a huge risk.
Whether it’s that the driver doesn’t see the biker or thinks there’s time to go, the results are often bad ones. In most cases, the car or SUV plows directly into the biker.
Distracted driving proves to be another issue when it comes to motorcycle accidents. Someone playing with their radio or texting and driving may not notice a biker riding ahead of them.
No doubt that drunk driving plays a part in some crashes involving motorcycles. Obviously, passengers on the back of the bike should also be wary of riding with someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In some cases, collisions with fixed objects add to the potential for motorcycle accidents. Road hazards are sometimes unavoidable.
Tennessee law requires bikers and their passengers to wear helmets. Not only is it important to follow the law, but helmets decrease the severity of injuries.
Contact Us if You’re a Motorcycle Crash Victim
If you or a loved one are a motorcycle crash victim, you already know the problems you face. Contact MHPS to see how we can help.
