What Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents Are Fatal?

Motorcycle riders may have heard horror stories of crashes leading to deaths or catastrophic injuries, but what is the actual percentage of motorcycle accidents leading to fatalities? We’re here to shed light on the issue and provide you with the truth you deserve to know. So, join us in uncovering the harsh reality behind motorcycles accidents stats. We’ll also help you discover where you can get the best motorcycle accident attorney Los Angeles.

The Alarming Percentage for Motorcycle Accidents

As of 2020, it’s estimated that motorcycles only make up 3% of all registered vehicles in the United States. Yet, they account for 14% of all the fatalities on the roads. This statistic alone paints a concerning picture and shows how deadly a motorbike accident can be.

Motorcycle accidents have an especially high fatality rate. On average, 28 times more likely to be fatal when compared to car accidents based on vehicle miles traveled. The fatality rate increased in 2020 as well, going up 11% from 5,044 to 5,579.

• Age Factors
  Statistics have shown that in recent years, there’s been a dramatic increase in older rider deaths- people aged 55 and above. Back in 1975, that figure was 3%, but by 2020 it had jumped to a shocking 27%. There’s been speculation that this is because of an increase in baby boomers reaching retirement and, thus, taking up motorcycle riding.
• More Riders, More Deaths
  Analysis of the various states in the U.S. revealed a few patterns regarding motorbike accidents. Generally, states with higher numbers of riders per registered vehicle were likely to experience a greater percentage of fatal motorcycle accidents. This indicates that the more people on the road, the higher the risk of a deadly crash.
• Sport Motorcycle RidersAs is to be expected, research shows that riders of sports motorcycles are most likely to be killed in collisions. Compared to ordinary automobiles, these ones frequently travel more quickly. It stands to us that this may be the reason they’re more prone to fatal accidents.
• LicensesIt’s especially concerning that many fatal crashes occur due to riders without valid motorcycle licenses. Shockingly, one in three fatal motorcycle accidents was related to riders without motorcycle licenses.
• Alcohol or Drug InfluenceMotorcycle riders were responsible for 5,268 fatalities in 2020, with 27% of those killed under the influence of alcohol. Although a BAC of less than 0.08% is not considered legally intoxicated in most places, it has a considerable impact on your driving ability. At a BAC of 0.02%, for example, you are more prone to make poor decisions. You will have clouded vision at a BAC of 0.05%. When riders with BACs ranging from 0.01% to 0.07% are included, the number of alcohol-impaired deaths rises to 1,737.

Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately more likely to be fatal than other motor vehicle collisions, so safety should always be the primary concern when on the roads. To avoid becoming another statistic, it is essential to wear safety gear and always drive cautiously, no matter the season or type of road. In case of an accident, though, don’t hesitate to reach out to a proven motorcycle accident attorney Los Angeles.

Motorcycle Accidents Monthly Fatalities

While fatal motorcycle accidents happen throughout the year, there were specific months where more fatal accidents occurred. The five months from May to September account for almost 63% of motorcycle accidents. And as expected, the more the number of accidents, the higher the fatality rates.

Motorcycle Fatalities Per Year

Although making up only 3% of the nation’s registered cars, motorcycles caused 14% of all traffic deaths in 2020. With 5,337 and 5,579 fatalities, respectively, motorcycle accidents in 2016 and 2020 set decade highs. Fortunately, since then, we’ve seen a consistent downward trend. But the figures continue to exceed 5,000.

The biggest amount of injuries occurred in the years 2012 and 2016. Less injuries occurred in 2017 and 2018, however from 2018 to 2019, they increased by 2.39%. The overall population decreased by 1.53% in 2020. It’s important to note that injuries have never decreased from 81,000 in any given year throughout the previous ten years.

Motorcycle Fatalities By State

Each state has a different death toll from motorcycle accidents. For instance, Florida recorded nearly 500 incidents in 2020, compared to just seven in the District of Columbia. The most fatalities have occurred in the following states;

• Florida
• California
• Texas
• Ohio
• Pennsylvania

In spite of laws requiring helmet use, riders were accountable for about 37% of fatal motorcycle accidents in 2020. Contrastingly, Vermont, Alaska, and the District of Columbia had fewer than 10 deaths in 2020. Remember that it’s crucial to work with a motorcycle accident lawyer Los Angeles if your loved one gets injured or dies in a motorcycle accident.

Where Do Most Accidents Happen?

The environment around motorcycles and their riders will likely have an impact on accidents and fatalities. Point Law Group identifies the regions where motorcycle accidents are most frequent.

Cities

We start by comparing what happens in rural and urban areas. The Federal Highway Administration considers any location with at least 2,500 inhabitants an urban area. It is necessary for 1500 individuals to reside somewhere other than institutional housing complexes like nursing homes or prisons.

In addition, we examined fatalities near intersections and those that weren’t. Our data show that the latter sees more fatal collisions. Cities account for 61% of motorcycle fatalities. Riders are more likely to share the road with other vehicles and pedestrians in these places due to the higher population density.

Non-intersections

The most frequent reasons for motorcycle collisions at intersections are:

• Speeding
• Running a red light,
• Failing to yield when turning

However, it’s important to know that fewer people died at crossings in 2020 despite more traffic and directional changes. At least 66% of motorcycle fatalities occur way from intersections. Non-intersections expose drivers to a range of road hazards, including uneven pavement, gravel, and other obstructions. Motorcycles are less stable than four-wheeled vehicles, making them more likely to crash.

The Role of Weather in Motorcycle Accidents

Weather conditions can significantly impact the safety of riders on the state of the roads. For instance, fog impairs visibility, making it challenging to see other cars. Rain and snow cause less traction, which makes slips and skids more likely. The hour of the day also matters. 

It would seem that riding conditions are riskier at dawn, dusk, and night than they are during the day. It might surprise you to learn that most motorbike collisions (57%) took place during the day. Nighttime driving comes in second, making up 37% of the total

Driving safely at night is still a prudent decision despite the reduced risk. The smallest contributions came from dawn and darkness, at 4% and 1%, respectively.

Do You Require Legal Counsel or Representation Following a Motorbike Accident?

As it stands, motorcycle accidents will remain a severe and tragic reality. But suppose you find yourself or a loved one in a motorcycle accident and require legal counsel or representation. In that case, getting in touch with an experienced Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer is crucial. Point Law Group can provide comprehensive legal advice and services to assist you with your claim should you seek reliable help and advice. Take care on the roads, and get legal representation from Point Law Group if needed.