Motorcycle accidents are extremely dangerous and result in nasty injuries. Motorcycle accidents are one of the leading causes of death for people aged between 20-50 years old in the United States. Research shows that approximately 3,000 people are killed in motorcycle accidents every year in the United States. Many others are seriously injured and undergo extensive life changes and disabilities due to motorcycle accidents. Statistics show that in most motorcycle accidents, the motorcyclist is not at fault, but the driver of the other automobile involved is. Some other motorcycle accident statistics that every rider should know are:
- In 2008, 5,290 bikers were killed – an increase of 2% from 2007.
- 59% of the bikers killed in 2008 were not wearing helmets.
- Of the motorcycle operators killed in 2008, 30% had a BAC of .08 or higher.
- There were 96,000 bikers injured during 2008.
- In 2008, motorcycle riders accounted for 14% of total traffic fatalities, 17% of all occupant fatalities, and 4% of all occupants injured.
- 35% of all bikers involved in fatal crashes in 2008 were speeding.
- In 2008, 2,554 of all motorcycles involved in fatal crashes collided with another type of moving vehicle.
- Per vehicle mile traveled, bikers are about 37 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash and 9 times more likely to be injured.
- In 2008, 25% of the motorcycles involved in fatal crashes collided with fixed objects, compared to 19% for cars, 14% for light trucks, and 4% for heavy trucks.
- One out of four motorcycle riders in fatal crashes in 2008 were riding their vehicles with an invalid license.
- Helmets are estimated to be 37% effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcycle riders and 41% for motorcycle passengers.
- During 2008, 346 young motorcycle riders were killed and an additional 8,000 were injured.
- 35% of the bikers between 15 and 20 who were fatally injured in crashes in 2008 were not wearing helmets.
Don’t become another statistic. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, an experienced Seattle motorcycle accident attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.