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Motorcycle vs car accident statistics

Motorcycle vs. car accident statistics

Motorcycle and car accidents differ greatly in terms of risks and outcomes. Motorcycle riders face higher vulnerability than passenger vehicles due to their lack of protection. Passenger vehicles offer greater safety features like airbags and seatbelts, which help reduce crash injuries.

However, motorcycle accidents, especially those involving drunk driving, can be devastating for riders. Understanding the numbers helps highlight the need for enhanced safety measures on the road. At ReshLaw, we are aware of the life-changing effects that motorcycle accidents can have.

Our team at ReshLaw is dedicated to helping injured riders receive fair compensation for their lost income, medical expenses, and other damages. We prioritize safety and advocate for riders, ensuring their rights are protected after a crash.

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, we are here to help you become familiar with the legal process.

What Makes Motorcycle Accidents So Dangerous?

What makes motorcycle accidents so dangerous

Motorcycle accidents carry a greater risk of serious injury than car accidents. The lack of physical protection leaves motorcyclists vulnerable to direct impact. Motorcycle accident injuries are often life-threatening, such as head trauma, broken bones, and internal injuries.

Car accidents, on the other hand, often result in fewer injuries due to seatbelts, airbags, and a stronger vehicle structure. Motorcycles are harder to see, especially in a car's blind spots, making motorcycle accidents more likely when car drivers are unaware of nearby riders.

Motorcycles are more difficult to control than cars, especially in adverse weather conditions. Their small size also means they're more likely to go unnoticed by car drivers. Combined with the lack of protective barriers, even minor accidents can lead to serious injuries for riders.

Common Injuries We See in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents commonly result in serious, even fatal, injuries. These include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) occur when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain, which can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
  • Broken bones. Broken bones, or fractures, happen when more force is applied to a bone than it can absorb, breaking it into two or more pieces.
  • Road rash. Road rash is a skin injury caused by sliding across the pavement or road surface during an accident, which scrapes away layers of skin.
  • Spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injuries involve damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal, often leading to permanent changes in strength, sensation, and other body functions below the site of the injury.
  • Internal bleeding. Internal bleeding occurs when blood vessels within the body are ruptured, leading to blood loss that accumulates inside the body, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
  • Severe lacerations. Severe lacerations are deep cuts in the skin that may involve tearing or slicing, often requiring medical intervention to clean, close, and heal the wound properly.

Drunk driving accidents involving motorcycles often lead to worse outcomes due to impaired judgment and reduced reaction times.

Statistics of Motorcycle Accidents in Utah

Motorcycle crashes in Utah have increased over the years. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

  • A total of 39 motorcyclist fatalities were recorded in Utah in 2021.
    • 23 of them were wearing helmets.
    • 15 of them were not wearing helmets.
    • 1 is recorded as unknown.
  • A total of 38 fatalities were recorded for motorcycle riders in Utah.

Motorcycle accident statistics revealed a higher rate of death for riders than for those in passenger vehicles. Motorcycle crashes often lead to more hospitalizations. These crashes highlight the serious nature of these accidents.

Stats on Motorcycle Accidents vs Car Accidents Nationally

National accident statistics show that motorcycle riders are more likely to suffer serious injuries compared to car drivers. In car and motorcycle accidents, the motorcyclist often bears the brunt of the force.

These accident statistics also show that motorcyclists are more likely to suffer from life-altering injuries, while car drivers typically walk away with fewer injuries, thanks to protective features in passenger vehicles.

Here is a summary of the motorcycle accident statistics based on recent data

  • 2,251 deaths occurred when motorcyclists were not wearing helmets.
  • Speeding contributed to 34% of motorcycle fatalities.
  • Alcohol was a factor in 27% of motorcycle deaths.
  • 40% of alcohol-impaired crashes happen at night.
  • Weekend fatalities peak from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Weekday fatalities peak from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Here is a summary of the car accident statistics based on recent data

  • 42,514 motor vehicle fatalities occurred in the U.S. in 2022.
  • This was a 1% decrease from 2021, which saw 43,230 deaths.
  • 1,664,598 crashes caused injuries, and 4,226,677 caused property damage in 2022.
  • Drunk driving led to 13,524 fatalities, accounting for 32% of all traffic deaths.
  • Half of the 25,420 passenger deaths involved occupants not wearing seat belts.
  • Speeding was a factor in 12,151 deaths (29% of fatalities).
  • Distracted driving caused 3,308 deaths and 289,310 injuries.
  • Drowsy driving resulted in around 6,400 deaths yearly.

Motorcycle accidents are often more serious because riders lack the protective features that car drivers have. This means even low-speed crashes can lead to serious injuries for motorcyclists. On top of that, motorcycles are harder to see on the road, which increases the chances of accidents.

The open nature of motorcycles also exposes riders to direct impact, making crashes much more dangerous. While car drivers benefit from seatbelts and airbags, motorcycle riders rely on helmets and protective gear, which only provide limited protection.

What Conclusions Can We Draw From These Statistics?

Motorcycle accidents result in more severe injuries and deaths compared to car accidents. The statistics highlight the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road.

Passenger vehicles are designed with multiple safety features that protect drivers and passengers, whereas motorcycles offer no such protection.

Drivers of passenger cars must be more vigilant to avoid collisions with motorcycles. The higher injury and fatality rates for motorcycle riders suggest the need for better safety measures and awareness for both car drivers and motorcyclists.

What You Should Do After a Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle accident, your priority should be to seek medical attention. Even if your injuries appear minor, you still need to see a doctor.

Next, report the accident to law enforcement and gather as much evidence as possible. This includes pictures of the accident scene and the contact information of witnesses.

Filing an insurance claim should be done promptly, and it's highly advisable to consult with a motorcycle accident attorney to help you understand the legal process and every step of the process. Motorcycle accidents often involve complex liability issues.

Having an experienced attorney on your side can also significantly increase your chances of obtaining fair compensation.

How Is Fault Assigned in a Motorcycle Accident?

Fault in a motorcycle accident is usually determined by the evidence collected at the scene, police reports, and witness statements. In many cases, the passenger vehicle driver may be liable for failing to see or yield to the motorcyclist.

However, motorcyclists can also be at fault, particularly if they were speeding or in lane splitting during the accident.

Both parties can share responsibility, but the percentage of fault will affect the compensation available to the injured motorcyclist.

Precautions Motorists Should Take To Avoid Motorcycles

Precautions motorists should take to avoid motorcycles

Motorcycle accident safety tips are essential to help car drivers prevent collisions. Before changing lanes, motorists must always check their blind spots.

Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see, especially in traffic. Drivers should also give motorcycles plenty of space and avoid following too closely.

In adverse weather conditions, extra caution is needed, as motorcycles are more affected by slippery roads. Avoid distractions and stay alert to motorcycle movements to reduce the risk of accidents.

FAQs

  1. What should I do after a car accident involving a motorcycle?
    Seek medical help, report the accident, gather evidence, and contact an attorney. Documenting everything, including any injuries and damage, is also important to support your insurance claim.
  2. Are motorcycle riders more likely to get severe injuries than car drivers?
    Yes, motorcycle riders are more vulnerable and often face severe injuries in accidents. Due to the lack of protective barriers, even low-speed crashes can seriously harm motorcyclists.
  3. Do fatal car accidents involving motorcycles happen more often than car-only crashes?
    Yes, fatal accidents are more common when motorcycles are involved. Motorcyclists are significantly more exposed to collision forces, making fatalities far more likely than in car-only crashes.
  4. Who is at fault in most motorcycle accidents?
    Fault depends on evidence, but often, car drivers are unaware of nearby motorcycles. However, motorcyclists can also be found at fault if speeding or riding recklessly.
  5. How can I avoid motorcycle accidents as a car driver?
    Stay alert, check blind spots, and give motorcycles enough space on the road. Always use your mirrors and be extra cautious when making turns or changing lanes, as motorcycles can be harder to spot.

Contact Our Utah Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Case Consultation

Contact our Utah motorcycle accident lawyer for a free case consultation

Motorcycle and car accidents often lead to life-threatening injuries. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, ReshLaw's experienced attorneys are ready to help. We will do our best to secure fair compensation for your injuries. Compensations include medical bills and lost wages.

Whether you’re dealing with a lane-splitting accident or a collision with a passenger vehicle, our team can guide you through the legal process.

Contact us today to discuss your motorcycle accident case and explore legal options. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you pursue a fair settlement.

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