As a motorcyclist, you are especially vulnerable on the road. Statistics show that motorcyclists are more likely to lose their lives when collisions occur in comparison to those riding in passenger vehicles. Moreover, motorcycle accidents frequently cause devastating injuries.
Whether you have to miss work because of an injury or you cannot return to the workplace because you have become immobilized after a motorcycle accident, an accident could derail your career and lead to financial hardships. Medical costs, emotional trauma and physical pain are other challenges many motorcycle accident victims endure.
Looking at motorcyclist injuries and deaths
According to data published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, estimates suggest that 88,000 motorcyclists sustained injuries during 2019. Moreover, this represents a 2% increase when compared to the number of motorcyclist injuries that occurred during 2018.
In addition to serious injuries, over 5,000 motorcyclists lost their lives in traffic accidents over the course of 2019. In fact, the NHTSA reports that motorcyclist deaths occurred almost 29 times more often than passenger vehicle occupant deaths during traffic accidents in 2019.
Other statistics on motorcycle accidents
The NHTSA reports that more fatal motorcycle accidents occurred on urban roads than in rural areas during 2019. Moreover, 66% of deadly motorcycle accidents in 2019 took place outside of intersections and 97% occurred during clear or cloudy weather conditions. High speeds and alcohol use played a role in many fatal motorcycle collisions.
If a reckless driver struck you while you were riding a motorcycle, you need to stand up for your rights and examine resources that could assist in your recovery.