Motorcycling offers a sense of freedom and excitement that is unmatched by other forms of transportation. However, this thrill comes with significant risks. What should you know about the risk you face on a ride?
Motorcycle accidents by the numbers
Statistics show that motorcyclists face much higher rates of injury than other motorists. In fact, they are four times as likely to experience an injury in an accident. Many experience head injuries, broken bones, burns or other harm.
Unfortunately, these injuries are often serious or fatal. In 2021 alone, motorcyclists accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities, and they are 28 times more likely to experience a fatal injury than drivers or passengers in cars.
Why are motorcyclists at greater risk of serious injuries?
Many different factors go into the serious risks that motorcycle riders face on the roadways. These include?
- Lack of physical protection: Unlike cars, motorcycles do not have airbags, seat belts, or a metal frame to protect the rider during a collision. This means that in the event of an accident, motorcyclists are more likely to be thrown from their bikes or directly contact other vehicles or the road.
- Visibility issues: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible compared to other vehicles on the road. This can make it difficult for car drivers to see motorcyclists, especially at intersections or during poor weather conditions.
- Road hazards: Motorcyclists are also more affected by road hazards than car drivers. Small objects, potholes, wet pavement, or uneven road surfaces that might be minor inconveniences to cars can pose significant dangers to motorcyclists. These hazards can cause a motorcyclist to lose control and crash.
- Limited stability: Motorcycles have only two wheels, which provides less stability compared to the four wheels of a car, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces.
All of these factors place motorcyclists at an increased risk of serious or fatal injuries in an accident. It is crucial for both motorcyclists and other road users to keep these risks in mind when they hit the road and to understand their rights when a crash does occur.