Percentage Of Motorcycle Accidents That End In Death
Motorcycle riding is a popular mode of transportation for many Americans. There is an undeniable thrill that comes with riding a motorcycle on the open road. However, with the excitement and freedom that riding a motorcycle provides, there is also a significant amount of risk involved. Motorcycle accidents can be deadly, and it is important to understand the percentage of motorcycle accidents that end in death.
Understanding Motorcycle Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle accidents are more likely to result in injury or death than car accidents. In fact, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of a passenger vehicle. The reason for this is simple: motorcycles offer little protection in the event of a crash. Unlike cars, motorcycles do not have airbags or seat belts to protect riders in the event of an accident.
Additionally, motorcycles are smaller and more difficult to see than cars, which makes them more susceptible to accidents. Motorcycles are also more susceptible to road hazards, such as potholes and debris, which can cause riders to lose control of their bikes.
Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents That End in Death
According to the NHTSA, the percentage of motorcycle accidents that end in death is significantly higher than car accidents. In 2019, there were 5,014 motorcyclists killed in motor vehicle crashes, which accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities. This means that for every 100,000 registered motorcycles, there were 59 fatalities in 2019.
While this number may seem high, it is important to note that the percentage of motorcycle accidents that end in death has decreased over the past few years. In 2015, for example, there were 5,029 motorcyclists killed in motor vehicle crashes, which accounted for 15 percent of all traffic fatalities.
Factors That Contribute to Motorcycle Accidents
There are a number of factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents. One of the biggest factors is alcohol consumption. According to the NHTSA, in 2019, 28 percent of all motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were alcohol-impaired. This is compared to 21 percent of passenger car drivers and 20 percent of light truck drivers.
Another factor that contributes to motorcycle accidents is speeding. In 2019, 33 percent of all motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were speeding, compared to 18 percent of passenger car drivers and 16 percent of light truck drivers.
Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include distracted driving, failure to wear a helmet, and inexperienced riders.
Preventing Motorcycle Accidents
While motorcycle accidents cannot always be prevented, there are steps that riders can take to reduce their risk of being involved in a crash. First and foremost, riders should always wear a helmet. Helmets can reduce the risk of head injury by 69 percent and the risk of death by 37 percent.
Riders should also avoid riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol and should obey all traffic laws, including speed limits. Additionally, riders should take a motorcycle safety course to learn how to ride safely and defensively.
Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents can be deadly, and it is important for riders to understand the risks involved. While the percentage of motorcycle accidents that end in death is high, riders can take steps to reduce their risk of being involved in a crash. By wearing a helmet, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and obeying traffic laws, riders can help keep themselves safe on the road.
