Common Motorcycle Accidents
It’s common knowledge that motorcycle riders have a higher risk of serious and fatal accidents on the road than other travelers. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that about 92,000 riders were injured, and 4,586 more were killed in 2014 alone.
A closer look at data shows 73 percent of motorcycle crashes were front-end collisions, while 7 percent were rear-ended. Of the motorcycles involved in fatal crashes, about 25 percent hit a fixed object. Data also shows that of the 2,172 fatal crashes that involved a bike and another vehicle, the vehicle turned left in front of the motorcycle while the bike was going straight or passing other vehicles. In 22 percent of the fatal two-vehicle accidents, both vehicles were going straight.
Speed is a factor in far too many bike crashes. In fact, the NHTSA estimates that 33 percent of riders involved in fatal crashes were going too fast for conditions or going over the posted speed limit. For comparison, the agency estimates that 20 percent of passenger car drivers were speeding, 17 percent of the light-truck drivers, and 7 percent of large truck drivers when involved in a fatal accident.
About 4,311 motorcycle riders died in motor vehicle accidents in 2014. Of those, 1,287 were legally intoxicated, and 299 were sober. Unfortunately, 29 percent of riders who were involved in fatal crashes were intoxicated, while 22 percent of light truck and passenger car drivers were intoxicated.
While a car turning left in front of a bike is the most common injurious and fatal two-vehicle accident type, RideApart.com reports that other common accident types include –
- Taking a corner too fast and losing control of the bike
- Cornering with debris on road
- Motor vehicle moving into motorcycle lane of travel
- Motorcycle hit from the rear
Surprisingly, older riders account for over half of all motorcycle fatalities, in fact, riders over the age of 40 account for about 55 percent of all bike fatalities.
If you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident, having to worry about medical costs, bills, daily living costs, and supporting yourself and your family will only slow recovery and healing. Fortunately, financial compensation may be available to you for your injuries, suffering, lost wages, and other damages. Fill out the form for a free consultation and learn more about how to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.