While riding a motorcycle, you are especially vulnerable if an accident takes place. Unfortunately, some reckless drivers do not keep an eye out for motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians. Moreover, those who drive too fast, use their phone on the road or get behind the wheel after drinking are especially likely to collide with motorcyclists.
It is a good idea for drivers and motorcyclists to go over statistics on motorcycle crashes in order to understand the prevalence of these accidents and take preventative measures to avoid an accident.
Motorcyclist injuries and deaths
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says that in comparison to accident victims riding in passenger vehicles, motorcyclists suffer injuries four times more often when accidents occur. Furthermore, when a traffic accident takes place, the likelihood of a motorcyclist dying is roughly 29 times higher than that compared to someone riding in a passenger vehicle.
Tragically, more than 5,000 motorcyclists lost their lives in traffic accidents throughout 2019.
Preventing and dealing with motorcycle accidents
As a motorcyclist, you can take a number of steps to reduce your chances of becoming involved in a crash. For example, you can wear bright clothes and reflective material to help drivers see you. Make sure you inspect your motorcycle beforehand (such as checking tire pressure, brakes, fluid levels and lights). Always follow traffic safety guidelines and keep an eye out for other vehicles, especially erratic drivers.
If you have already suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident, you need to gather as much evidence as you can. Thoroughly evaluate your legal options and make sure you hold a driver answerable if the crash occurred because of their recklessness.