Motorcycle accident facts

On behalf of Aiken and Aiken P.C. Personal Injury Attorneys posted in Motorcycle Accidents, on Monday, September 21, 2015

Motorcycle crashes in Massachusetts are some of the most deadly accidents that can occur on the roadways. Because a motorcycle does not protect its rider in the same way that a car protects its driver, a motorcyclist is much more vulnerable to sustaining serious injuries in a crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association, over 80 percent of motorcycle accidents result in the death of the motorcyclist. Statistics from 67,000 motorcycle accidents that occurred in 1996 showed that 40 percent of the incidents were single-vehicle crashes. The motorcyclist’s lack of experience was found to be a contributing factor in many of the accidents. The NHTSA says that driver intoxication contributes to about 43 percent of fatal motorcycle accidents, and around one-third of multi-vehicle motorcycle accidents are the result of a car driver turning in front of a motorcycle. Riding a motorcycle requires more coordination and alertness than driving a car. Motorcyclists must remain cognizant of the fact that car drivers may not notice them and inclement weather conditions will have a greater affect on them. Due to the open design of a motorcycle, motorcyclists must rely on strong helmets and protective clothing to shield them from the full force of an impact. Although motorcycles are less visible, car drivers need to look out for them and maintain proper following distance at all times. If a negligent auto driver was responsible for causing a motorcycle crash, an injured accident victim may want to consult with a personal injury attorney to determine the recourse that may be available for pursuing compensation.