Motorcycle Crash Statistics
Many people doubt or underestimate the dangers of riding a motorcycle, but the numbers do not lie. In 2017, a total of 5,172 motorcyclists died in motorcycle crashes. Per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists were 27 times more likely to die in a crash than passenger vehicle occupants.
Even motorcyclists who survive their accidents are left with serious injuries. In 2017, approximately 89,000 motorcyclists were injured.
Dangerous Times To Ride
According to the Insurance Information Institute, the periods with the most fatal motorcycle accidents in 2017 were 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. If we apply this data to Pocatello, we can see that riding a motorcycle is more dangerous during rush hour traffic, especially when the sun is setting, or it is dark outside.
Helmet Use and Other Safety Features
Helmets are the most crucial piece of motorcycle safety equipment. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that wearing a helmet reduces your risk of dying by at least 37%. Data from the NHTSA also reveals that unhelmeted riders are 3 times more likely to sustain traumatic brain injuries than their helmeted counterparts.
Another important safety measure is antilock brakes. This vehicle feature prevents skids and lowers the risk of a fatal accident by 31%. For safety’s sake, you should also consider riding a cruiser or another standard motorcycle instead of a supersport motorcycle. You are 4 times more likely to die while riding a supersport motorcycle.
Safety features save lives. In 2018, the rate of motorcycle fatalities decreased to 4,985.
Alcohol
On the other hand, drinking and driving causes and contributes to fatal traffic accidents of all types. In 2017, 33% of fatal motorcycle crashes involved alcohol, 35% of motorcyclists had a BAC (blood alcohol concentration) and 27% of motorcyclists were over the legal limit (0.08% BAC).
In 2018, 26% of motorcyclists who were killed had a BAC at or above 0.08% and drunk motorcyclists were responsible for 39% of single-vehicle accidents and nearly half (46%) of accidents that occurred between 9 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Takeaways
If you ride a motorcycle, know that it is inherently more dangerous than driving a car. Always drive sober and be sure to wear a helmet. To reduce your risk of a fatal accident, ride a cruiser or a standard motorcycle instead of a supersport bike and make sure your vehicle is equipped with antilock brakes.
Avoid riding when it is dark outside and during rush hour traffic.
Remember, even if you do everything right, a negligent driver can still cause a dangerous motorcycle accident. If you or a loved one are seriously injured or killed in a motorcycle crash, please do not hesitate to contact May, Rammell & Wells.
We encourage you to call our attorneys at (208) 623-8021 and discuss your case during a free consultation. Get in touch today, so we can help you move forward.
