It is no surprise that motorcyclists are at increased risk of being severely injured when involved in an accident. Motorcyclists have no barriers protecting them from the road and other cars. Riders also do not have the same control as car drivers do because of the mechanics of a motorcycle. Also, car drivers may have trouble seeing a motorcyclist on the road. As a result, motorcyclists fare worse than drivers in road accidents. But those are not the only cost of motorcycle injuries- the medical expenses resulting from these accidents are also substantially higher than the costs of other types of accidents.
Injury and Death Rate from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents occur more frequently than car accidents and result in more fatalities. The statistics show that the rate of death for motorcyclists is more than 27 times the rate of death for car drivers or passengers. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, in 2015, almost 4700 motorcyclists were involved in accidents that were fatal. Exposure of the body and head is a primary reason for motorcycle fatalities. In fact, head injuries are the most common type of fatal injury in crashes.
There are a number of reasons that motorcycle riders face an increased risk of injury:
- Visual recognition of motorcyclists by motorists is more difficult, especially at intersections. As a result, the majority of motorcycle and car collisions happen at intersections.
- Road conditions can become major obstacles for motorcyclists. Common road conditions such as potholes and puddles can cause motorcyclists to lose control.
- Lack of rider skill can impair judgment. Motorcyclists who do not have adequate skill and experience account for a large number of collisions.
Financial Costs of Motorcycle Accidents
Most of the data about motorcycle crashes focuses on the injuries suffered by victims. Now new research shows that the financial costs are significant as well. Medical expenses involving motorcycles are about twice as high as those for car accidents during the first two years after the accident. On average, treatment for motorcycle victims costs about $4569 dollars while treatment for car crash victims costs about $2349 dollars. The researchers in the study stated that this information is important because it might provide an additional incentive to enhance safety standards for motorcycle riders. Even though motor vehicle safety has improved tremendously over the past few decades, fatalities and serious injuries from motorcycle crashes has remained steady.
If you or a member of your family has been a victim of a motorcycle accident, contact Alexander Law Group, LLC. Our exceptional personal injury lawyers will be sure you get the maximum compensation possible. Call 888.777.1776, or contact us online.
