San Jose Motorcycle Crash Lawyers
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Freedom. Speed. Thrills. Motorcycles represent this and more to millions of bikers around the country. Unfortunately, motorcycles also carry a special risk - and some sobering statistics. Here's the scoop on the most recent motorcycle accident statistics.
Overview
The most sobering motorcycle accident statistics take the shape of thousands of individuals who are killed on a bike each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), nearly 4,600 individuals died on their motorcycle in 2005; 41 percent of these accidents were single-vehicle crashes, and 56 percent involved other vehicles. All in all, nearly 62,000 motorcyclists died between 1975 and 2005; hundreds of thousands of non-fatal crashes occurred in the same time period.
Who Gets Hurt?
Males are at the highest risk for a motorcycle crash; in fact, they make up 97 percent of motorcycle fatalities. Interestingly, the majority of fatal crashes take place on non-interstate roadways (rural or urban local roads). While a relatively similar proportion of fatal crashes take place on weekends and weekdays, daytime crashes are more common than nighttime ones.
Helmets Save Lives
Helmet use is an important factor in the outcome of motorcycle crashes and can significantly influence motorcycle accident statistics. The NTHSA estimates that motorcycle helmets save at least 1,500 lives per year and are 37 percent effective at preventing death in a motorcycle accident. Somewhere between 60 and 70 percent of motorcyclists wear helmets, and state laws are becoming more and more stringent when it comes to helmet use.
Special Risk Factors
Operating a motorcycle is one thing. But other risk factors can up the chances of an accident or a fatal crash. For example, curves, undivided roadways, and road conditions can have a significant influence on the outcome of a crash. And operator error is estimated in up to two thirds of all motorcycle accidents through risk factors such as alcohol use, distracted or fatigued drivers, faulty steering or braking, or lack of training and motorcycle education.
Don't Be A Statistic
If you're seriously injured during a motorcycle accident, you may be wondering where to turn. Motorcycle accidents can change lives and futures - don't become another statistic. Contact the experienced Northern California motorcycle injury attorneys at Van Der Walde & Associates today to talk about your crash - we can help you file a motorcycle accident lawsuit and get justice for your injuries. Call today; your call is confidential and completely free of charge.
