What Percentage of Motorcycle Riders Get in Accidents?

A motorcycle is an efficient, cost-effective, and thrilling mode of transportation. Therefore, it is no wonder that many riders choose motorcycles over other vehicles for their traveling needs. However, they can also be dangerous, with an increased risk of accidents and injury. If you are in North Carolina, you may want to know what percentage of motorcycle riders get in accidents.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Like any accident, motorcycle accidents can occur at any time; however, most of these accidents occur at intersections because of the lack of visibility or violation of traffic laws. Notably, one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is drivers making left turns at intersections in front of a motorcycle.

From 2019-2023, there were 18,500 motorcycle crashes in the state of North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation. Most recently, in N.C. in March, a motorcycle collided with another vehicle in Fayetteville. Unfortunately, the motorcyclist died of their injuries. Another recent motorcycle accident occurred in Alexander County, where the motorcyclist, also unfortunately, lost their life.

Besides intersection-related crashes, other common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Distracted driving. Distracted driving can include driving while using a smartphone, while eating, applying makeup, or engaging in other distracting activities.
• All states have laws surrounding speeding limits in order to protect drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Driving above the speed limit, whether in a residential area or on a highway, may prove fatal.
• Illegal or unsafe lane changes. Unsafe lane changes are one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents, which give riders little time to make changes that could potentially save their lives.
• Impaired driving. Diving impaired in North Carolina is illegal. Impaired driving means driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both, including certain prescription or over-the-counter medications. Driving impaired impedes concentration, memory, hand-eye coordination, and other faculties required for safe driving.
• Uneven roads. While cars, trucks, or buses can drive on uneven roads without causing an accident, this is not always the case for motorcycles. Because of their size and two wheels, motorcycles are more vulnerable to damaged or uneven roads.
• Following a motorcycle too closely. While a general rule and not a law, driving too close to any vehicle, especially motorcycles, can increase the likelihood of accidents. Driving too close leaves little time for the other vehicle to brake safely.
• Dooring accidents. Most parking lots have designated areas for motorcycles to park. This prevents dooring accidents that can cause injuries to motorcyclists. However, sometimes, vehicles ignore parking parameters, park too close to motorcycles, and injure both the rider and their vehicles.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics for North Carolina

North Carolina has more than 250,000 registered motorcycles, and in 2023, there were 202 motorcyclists killed, which is a 0.5% increase from the previous year. There were a total of 3,800 motorcycle accidents, according to a report by the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).  Moreover, motorcycle crashes accounted for about 14% of total traffic fatalities in the country in 2021, which is an 8% increase from the previous year.

Most of the accidents reported were caused by negligence by drivers of passenger vehicles. Motorcycles, while appealing, tend to be more vulnerable to accidents because of a lack of visibility, and accidents tend to be more severe because of the lack of physical protection motorcycles offer. Not only are motorcycles more vulnerable to collisions, but also uneven, damaged roads, or even flying objects.

North Carolina Laws for Motorcyclists

To ride a motorcycle legally, cyclists must possess a motorcycle permit or endorsement along with a full driver’s license. Motorcyclists are advised to wear a helmet, protective gear such as face shields, and appropriate clothing. Moreover, motorcycle riders are responsible for abiding by the same traffic laws as other vehicles, such as following speed limits, using signals, and following other traffic laws.

FAQs

Q: What Should You Do if You Are in a Motorcycle Accident?

A: The first thing to do if you are in a motorcycle accident is to move to a safe location if you are able to. Call emergency services, but keep your gear on, as it could make unseen injuries worse by removing it. Be sure to seek medical attention, obtain a police report, and gather information from any witnesses. You will want to notify your insurance company, and then contact a motorcycle accident attorney.

Q: What Percentage of Motorcyclists Get into an Accident?

A: Roughly 14% of traffic fatalities involve motorcyclists. This is a considerable percentage, considering that motorcycles only account for an insubstantial percentage of registered vehicles. Currently, there are about 250,000 registered motorcycles in North Carolina, and over 3,800 were involved in accidents in 2023.

Q: What Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents Without a Helmet Result in Death?

A: According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2021, it was reported that about 55% of motorcyclists were not wearing helmets in accidents that resulted in death in states without helmet laws. In comparison, 9% of motorcycle accidents resulted in death in states with universal helmet laws.

Q: Is Motorcycle Riding Worth the Risk?

A: It depends. It is a personal choice whether or not motorcycles are worth the risk; however, motorcyclists should take extra precautions to avoid being involved in an injurious or fatal accident. Some suggestions include always wearing a helmet, wearing protective gear like face shields to protect from flying objects or debris, wearing proper clothing, being visible at all times, being careful at intersections, and following traffic laws.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Law Firm in North Carolina

At the Law Offices of Huffman & Kendrick, we understand the risks of riding a motorcycle, although many riders find it rewarding. While some accidents are not anyone’s fault, many are because of another driver’s negligence. This is particularly impactful to motorcyclists, as many of these accidents result in injury or death.

At our law firm, our legal team handles a range of cases, from criminal defense to personal injury. We represent clients involved in motorcycle accidents, informing them of their rights and helping them reach settlements that may help cover medical expenses and other expenses related to their accidents.

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact us to handle your case. We are dedicated to helping victims of accidents when they need it most. Please request a consultation so we can discuss how we can help you.