Motorcycle Accident Overview
Motorcycle Accident Resources
In the United States, motorcycle accidents have steadily increased each year since 1997. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that in 2005, motorcycle accidents caused 4,553 fatalities and 87,000 injuries. Motorcyclists are approximately 34% likelier than passenger car occupants to be killed in an accident, and 8% likelier to be injured.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are caused by a number of different factors. Motorcycles are less visible than cars and are much less stable than other vehicles. As a result, motorcycles are more vulnerable to careless drivers and common driving hazards. Motorcycle accidents are often caused by drivers in passenger cars who fail to check their side-view mirrors before changing lanes. Motorcyclists themselves may cause crashes by exceeding the speed limit, weaving dangerously between lanes of traffic, driving while intoxicated, or driving in severe weather. Accidents may also result from hazardous road conditions, including cobble stones, debris, blind corners or potholes. Finally, a motorcycle crash may be caused by defective equipment or mechanical failure.
Common Injuries Suffered in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents tend to result in severe injuries. Motorcycles provide little protection in a crash and a motorcyclist may be thrown to the ground or into oncoming traffic. Head injuries are the leading cause of death from motorcycle crashes. Other common injuries suffered by motorcyclists include broken bones, torn cartilage and back and neck dislocations. Wearing a helmet and other proper riding attire greatly reduces a motorcyclist's chance of serious injury.
Motorcycle Safety Standards
The National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1966 implemented motorcycle safety standards. Individual states have also enacted their own rules regarding motorcycle regulation and safety. All states require motorcyclists to comply with specific licensing requirements before they may lawfully operate a motorcycle. Additionally, because head injuries are the most common cause of death from motorcycle accidents, many states have enacted helmet laws. In 2006, 20 states within the United States had laws requiring all motorcyclists and their passengers to wear helmets, while 26 states required only some motorcyclists to wear helmets.
Liability for Motorcycle Accidents
When a motorcycle accident occurs, the parties to the accident must remain at the scene of the accident and contact the police. They also must exchange personal and insurance information with each other. Because motorcycle accidents often result in significant bodily injuries and property damage, the parties should consider contacting an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence. Even if the accident appeared to be minor, a motorcycle accident attorney can provide counsel on what steps to take if symptoms later arise and what further legal action may need to be taken before the statute of limitations runs out. An individual who suffers personal injuries or property damage in a motorcycle accident may be able to recover money damages in a civil lawsuit. If a driver was grossly negligent, or driving while under the influence of alcohol and drugs, a driver may be subject to criminal prosecution.