Did you know that you are four times more likely to be injured in a motorcycle crash than in a car crash?
In 2019, the number of deaths on motorcycles was nearly 29 times the number of deaths in cars. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that over five thousand motorcyclists died that year alone. Motorcyclist deaths increased 11 percent between 2019 and 2020, despite a dip in the number of motorists on the road during the beginning of the pandemic.
The #1 cause for motorcycle accidents is other motorists not watching out for smaller vehicles on the road. Actions such as turning left, merging in front of riders, and following motorcyclists too close can lead to accidents. Not all motorcycle accidents are caused by other motorists though. It was found that 1,526 motorcyclists died in 2020 due to drinking too much alcohol. Other causes of motorcycle crashes include poor bike maintenance, poor road surface maintenance, and risky or reckless behaviors.
The NHTSA estimates that 45 percent of fatal crashes, of all types of motor vehicles, were due to the drivers engaging in risky or reckless behaviors, such as speeding, being impaired by alcohol, or not wearing a seat belt. Safe riding practices and cooperation from all road users will help reduce the number of deaths and injuries on our nation’s highways.
Motorcycle Safety Tips
There are many ways to keep you and your loved ones safe while riding a motorcycle. Here are a few that we recommend adhering to:
- Choose a motorcycle that fits your size and ability. If you feel uncomfortable while on a motorcycle, it may not be the right bike for you.
- Wear a helmet. Helmets are the most protective gear a motorcyclist can have.
- Drive sober. Alcohol and drugs negatively impact judgment, coordination, balance, throttle control, and ability to switch gears. They also reduce alertness and reaction time.
- Inspect your bike. If anything seems off, take it to a mechanic for further inspection before riding it.
What should you do if you or someone you love has been involved in a motorcycle crash:
- Call 911 immediately. Your health and safety are top priorities.
- Do not move your motorcycle.
- File a police report and only state the facts.
- Take as many photos of the accident as you can.
- Even if you feel okay, see a doctor. Symptoms may not surface right away.
- Call our office so we can help you navigate your case.
- Focus on your recovery, while we handle the claims, medical bills, and insurance companies for you.
If you, or a loved one, have been injured in an accident, anywhere in Mississippi, please contact the Diaz Law Firm today and speak with one of our attorneys. You can reach us online or by calling our toll-free number at 800-459-2222.
Click here to read our Motorcycle Safety and Crash Claim eBook.
Click here to download our free accident pamphlet.
For more motorcycle safety tips from the NHTSA, visit nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycles.