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Motorcycle Accident Statistics and Trends
Motorcycle accidents are a growing problem in the United States, with thousands of lives lost each year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 4,985 motorcyclists were killed in 2018, a 5.6% increase from 2017. The NHTSA also reports that 88,000 motorcyclists were injured in 2018, a 3.1% increase from 2017. To better understand motorcycle accidents and their causes, it is important to look at the available statistics and trends.
Motorcycle Fatalities
Motorcycle fatalities have been steadily increasing since 1997. According to the NHTSA, the number of motorcyclists killed in 2018 was 4,985, the highest number ever recorded. This number is a 5.6% increase from 2017 and a 56.7% increase since 1997. The NHTSA also reports that motorcyclists are overrepresented in traffic fatalities, accounting for 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2018.
The most recent data from the NHTSA shows that the majority of motorcycle fatalities in 2018 were male (4,102), with a small percentage being female (883). The majority of fatalities were also riders over the age of 40 (3,064), with a small percentage being riders under the age of 20 (579).
Motorcycle Injuries
In 2018, the NHTSA reported that there were 88,000 motorcyclists injured in traffic accidents. This number is a 3.1% increase from 2017 and a 42.1% increase since 1997. The NHTSA also reports that motorcyclists are overrepresented in traffic injuries, accounting for 17.5% of all traffic injuries in 2018.
The most recent data from the NHTSA shows that the majority of motorcycle injuries in 2018 were male (75,000), with a small percentage being female (13,000). The majority of injuries were also riders over the age of 40 (50,000), with a small percentage being riders under the age of 20 (17,000).
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
The most common causes of motorcycle accidents are the same as for other types of motor vehicle accidents. The NHTSA reports that the most common causes of motorcycle accidents are:
• Driver error or negligence
• Speeding
• Alcohol and/or drug use
• Weather and road conditions
• Vehicle defects
The NHTSA also reports that the majority of motorcycle accidents involve only one vehicle, with the other vehicle being either a passenger vehicle or a fixed object.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
To reduce the risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident, the NHTSA recommends the following safety tips:
• Wear a helmet and other protective gear.
• Obey all traffic laws and speed limits.
• Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Be aware of your surroundings and anticipate the actions of other drivers.
• Use turn signals to indicate your intention to turn or change lanes.
• Be aware of road and weather conditions.
• Take a motorcycle safety course.
Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents are a growing problem in the United States, with thousands of lives lost each year. The NHTSA reports that 4,985 motorcyclists were killed in 2018, a 5.6% increase from 2017, and 88,000 motorcyclists were injured in 2018, a 3.1% increase from 2017. The most common causes of motorcycle accidents are driver error or negligence, speeding, alcohol and/or drug use, weather and road conditions, and vehicle defects. To reduce the risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident, the NHTSA recommends wearing a helmet and other protective gear, obeying all traffic laws and speed limits, avoiding driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and taking a motorcycle safety course.
FAQ And Answers
for the questions
What are the leading causes of motorcycle accidents?
The leading causes of motorcycle accidents are speeding, alcohol use, and failure to yield the right of way.
What is the most common type of motorcycle accident?
The most common type of motorcycle accident is a single vehicle crash, usually caused by a rider losing control of their motorcycle.
Are motorcycle accidents more common in certain areas?
Yes, motorcycle accidents are more common in urban areas, due to the increased traffic.
What is the most dangerous time of day for motorcycle accidents?
The most dangerous time of day for motorcycle accidents is between 3 pm and 6 pm, when traffic is at its peak.
What are the most common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents?
The most common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents are broken bones, head trauma, and spinal injuries.
What is the average cost of a motorcycle accident?
The average cost of a motorcycle accident can range from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the severity of the accident.
What is the fatality rate for motorcycle accidents?
The fatality rate for motorcycle accidents is 28 times higher than for car accidents.
What is the best way to prevent motorcycle accidents?
The best way to prevent motorcycle accidents is to always wear a helmet, obey the speed limit, and never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Are motorcycle accidents more common in certain states?
Yes, motorcycle accidents are more common in states with warmer climates, such as California, Florida, and Texas.
What is the average age of someone involved in a motorcycle accident?
The average age of someone involved in a motorcycle accident is between 25 and 34 years old.
