Motorcycle Crashes
Facts About U.S. Motorcycle Crashes
In the United States, only 3% of all registered vehicles are motorcycles, yet 14% of all traffic deaths occur among motorcyclists. In fact, the fatality rate is 6 times greater among motorcyclists than occupants of a passenger car.
Compared to drivers of other vehicles, the drivers of motorcycles involved in a fatal crash are more likely to have a previous driving conviction such as a speeding, suspended license or revocation, or driving while intoxicated.
4 Facts About Motorcycle Riders Involved in a Fatal Crash
- 4 out of 10 (41%) were not wearing a helmet
- 1 in 3 (34%) were speeding
- 1 out of 4 (25%) did not have a valid driver’s license
- 1 in 4 (28%) were alcohol-impaired
(National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Traffic Safety Facts: 2013 Data, “Motorcycles.” May 2015)
Facts About New York State Motorcycle Crashes
In 2014, there were more than 4,000 motorcycle accidents in NYS, involving more than 15,000 people. Nearly 9 out of 10 (88%) of these crashes involved a personal injury. Motorcyclists made up 14% of the 1,026 fatal crashes in NYS.
Roughly 3 out of 4 (79%) motorcycle accidents involved human factors, with the most common factors being:
- Failure to yield the right of way (18%)
- Unsafe speed (18%)
- Driver inattention/distraction (15%)
- Following too closely (10%)
8 Things You Should Do After a Motorcycle Crash
- Get medical care that you need. Keep records and receipts from these visits.
- Take photos of the accident scene. Include stop signs or traffic lights.
- Take photos of your vehicle to show any damage.
- Get the names and contact information for any witnesses.
- Call the police so they can prepare an accident report.
- Speak the facts at the scene. Never lie.
- Do not admit any fault.
- Notify your insurance company of the crash.
The Kuehner Law Firm Approach
If you were hurt as a result of a motorcycle crash, contact us so that we help.