Motorcycle Accident Statistics and a Few Tips

We all know that riding a motorcycle is both exciting and dangerous.

If you’re looking to be as safe as possible while riding, you’ve come to the right place. This guide reviews a few surprising statistics involving motorcycle accidents, and a few tips to help you stay safe.

Surprising Stats for Motorcycle Accidents

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• Motorcyclists are about 22 times more likely to suffer a serious injury or fatality than passenger vehicles per 100 miles driven.
• An average of 6,000 motorcyclists are killed in accidents each year, which fluctuates slightly year over year.
• One of the biggest contributions to motorcycle accidents is speeding, with the age range of 21 to 24 years being the most impacted.
• Alcohol impairment also significantly contributes to motorcycle accidents, with 42% of motorcycle fatalities involving alcohol.

Motorcycle accidents are almost always severe. They may lead to life-changing injuries that make it difficult for the rider to return to work. In many cases, the rider may also no longer be able to ride.

Safe Riding Tips

Here are a few safe riding tips to integrate into your riding experience.

Avoid Drinking and Riding

Drinking and riding is among the top causes of motorcycle accidents, making it a good reason to avoid it. Consider alternative transportation if you plan to have a few drinks. If you unexpectedly have a few drinks, consider calling a rideshare instead, and return the next day to pick up your motorcycle.

Your overall wellnessand mental health can also impact your strength and response time while riding. Consider routine checkups at the local medical clinic to make sure you’re safe to ride.

Be Defensive

Defensive driving means leaving sufficient space between you and the vehicle in front of you. It also means maintaining avoiding distractions like listening to music or being on your phone. Allow drivers the opportunity to change lanes.

Driving defensively also means avoiding road rage. Road rage increases your risk of getting into an accident exponentially. Try taking a passive, mindful approach to driving instead.

Wear the Right Protective Gear

Wearing the right protective gear can also help keep you safe. While protective gear may not reduce your risk of being in an accident, it will minimize the damage.

Always wear a proper-fitting helmet, even in states where it’s not yet required. A thick-padded motorcycle jacket can help protect your body if you’re in an accident. Other protective gear items to wear include gloves, boots, and a face guard.

In addition to wearing protective gear, wearing gear that ensures you and your motorcycle are seen can also be helpful. Night-time riding can be especially risky as drivers may not notice a motorcycle as well as they do a vehicle or truck. Wear bright, reflective colors to help others see you at night.

Know Your Legal Rights

Know your legal rights as a motorcyclist and when to call a lawyer if you have been involved in an accident. Many motorcycle crashes involve other drivers, whether passenger vehicles or commercial trucks.

A standard insurance policy may not cover the full extent of your damages. If someone else is to blame, consider contacting a lawyer to discuss your legal rights. Motorcycle laws and legal eligibility depend on the state, so you’ll need representation from your state. A motorcyclist injured in an accident in the Chicago area should consult a Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer.

Follow the Laws

Be sure to follow your state’s driving laws. Speeding, stopping, yielding, and changing lane laws are designed to keep drivers safe. In all U.S. states, motorcyclists are expected to follow the same traffic laws as regular vehicle drivers. Failing to do so could lead to a civil infraction and an expensive fine. It can also put you at an increased risk. Excessive speed, for example, contributes to over 13% of motorcycle accidents in the state of Illinois.

Additionally, your legal options could be reduced if you’re found to be partially at fault for an accident if you weren’t following the traffic laws. It can also be a good idea to brush up on the latest laws every year to ensure you’re familiar with them. This also means that another driver or rider who engages in these violations could be to blame if they cause you injury. They may receive a traffic violation, and you may be able to seek compensation for your damages.

Motorcycling offers a convenient, entertaining way to get around your city. However, distracted drivers, alcohol intoxication, ignoring laws, and dangerous driving conditions can put motorcyclists at an increased risk of injury. Stay safe out there!