15 Shocking Motorcycle Accident Statistics

September 25th, 2019

There are approximately 8.5 million motorcycles on the roadways in the United States. Motorcycle riders face additional risks and dangers, and when there is an accident, the consequences are typically more catastrophic and severe.

A motorcyclist is 28 times more likely to be in an accident than motorists in vehicles. If you are a motorcycle rider, it is important to know the accident statistics so that you can better prepare and keep yourself safe.

Status of Motorcycle Accidents in the United States

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2016, 5,286 people died in motorcycle crashes, which was up 5.1 percent from 5,029 in 2015. Dozens of facts regarding motorcycle accidents can be found on the Insurance Information Institute website.

Shocking Motorcycle Accident Statistics

While there are many factors that may contribute to a motorcycle accident, the following interesting statistics can educate a motorcycle rider on the dangers associated with riding a motorcycle and how possibly to avoid future collisions.

1. Motorcyclists are five times more likely to be injured than car passengers in an accident, and 29 times more likely to suffer a fatal injury.
2. Only half of all motorcycle riders wear helmets, and 40 percent of motorcyclists killed were not wearing a helmet at the time of the collision.
3. Older motorists make up more than half of motorcycle fatalities.
4. Statistics show that motorists are usually at fault for any accident involving a motorcycle.
5. Failure of parts or components accounts for less than 3 percent of motorcycle accidents.
6. Roadway obstacles or defects (pavement ridges, potholes) cause only 2 percent of all motorcycle accidents.
7. Nevada has the highest percentage of deaths by motorcycle riders as a percent of total motor vehicle deaths at 22.6 percent.
8. Fuel system leaks and spills occurred in 62 percent of motorcycle accidents which can cause an unusually high risk of fire.
9. 92 percent of motorcycle riders involved in accidents have had no motorcycle classes or training.
10. Nearly half of all motorcycle accidents that involve fatalities involve alcohol.
11. The chance of serious injury in a motorcycle accident is astronomical: 98 percent of multiple vehicle collisions and 96 percent of the single-vehicle accidents ended in an injury to the motorcycle rider; up to 45 percent of those accidents resulted in a serious injury.
12. Using and wearing heavy boots, jackets, and motorcycle gloves, are absolutely effective in preventing or reducing abrasions and lacerations.
13. Wearing a helmet is the number one factor in the prevention or reduction of head injury.
14. Fewer than 10 percent of motorcycle riders involved in accidents had insurance.
15. Motorcyclists are more likely to be killed between 6 and 9 p.m.

Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney 

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need an advocate on your side to guide you through liability laws, communicate and negotiate with insurance companies, and file a lawsuit, if necessary, to obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact the experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at The Bowling Law Firm at (504) 586-5200 or online today to set up a free consultation.