Everyone always talks about how dangerous motorcycles are, but nobody ever gets into why. They might talk about someone they know who was hurt while riding a motorcycle or simply repeat something they heard from someone else, but they never really get into the nitty-gritty of why riding a motorcycle can be such a hazard.
So how dangerous are motorcycles really? Let’s dive in to find out.
Why Are Motorcycles Dangerous?
First, let’s start with the “why.”
Motorcyclists are less protected when riding. Though they might wear a helmet and other protective gear and clothing, their bodies are still much more exposed than those riding in cars. So this naturally makes riding a motorcycle more dangerous, but it’s more than that.
Motorcycles are also much smaller than other vehicles on the road, making them less visible. For example, a motorcyclist can more easily disappear in another driver’s blind spot than a car or an SUV. Thus, they get hit at higher rates because other drivers on the road simply do not see them as easily.
Not only does being smaller mean motorcycles are seen less easily, but it also means they are more susceptible to significant damage when they do get into an accident. When two cars collide, for example, the vehicles are closer in size and weight, but when a car collides with a motorcycle, the motorcycle is much smaller in comparison and thus can more easily get run over or totaled.
In some cases, other drivers purposely drive more aggressively around motorcycles because they don’t like having to share the road. For example, drivers might tailgate motorcyclists, cut them off, or try to keep them from passing. Some drivers have even been known to purposely open their car doors in the path of motorcyclists to keep them from riding past.
Lousy weather and hazards on the road are also more dangerous to motorcycles than other larger vehicles. For example, a car can more easily handle driving over something lying on the road, but a motorcyclist might have to swerve to miss the hazard, which can cause them to lose control and crash. Larger vehicles are also less likely to slide or skid on wet or icy surfaces because of their weight, whereas motorcycles are more likely to lose traction in these situations.
How Dangerous Is Riding a Motorcycle in Detroit?
To further drive home how dangerous motorcycles are, here are some of the top motorcycle accident statistics:
- Motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to lose their lives in an accident compared with other drivers on the road.
- In 2020, more than 80,000 motorcyclists were injured in traffic accidents.
- In that same year, over 5,000 motorcyclists were killed.
- Motorcycle accidents account for 14% of all traffic deaths.
- 35% of motorcycle fatalities happen at intersections.
- 65% of motorcycle fatalities occur in urban areas.
- 25 to 29-year-olds are the most likely age group to die in a motorcycle accident.
- 92% of motorcycle deaths are men.
- Motorcycle fatalities have increased by 20% over the last ten years.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Road rash is one of the most common types of motorcycle accident injuries. Though some road rash injuries can be minor, they can also be severe and life-threatening. For example, a third-degree road rash means that a significant portion of the skin has been torn away, potentially exposing muscles, fat, tendons, nerves, and even bone.
Other common injuries can include:
- Head and face injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Crushed limbs
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Internal organ damage
How a Detroit Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
If you are injured in a Detroit motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation that can help you pay for your medical expenses and other damages. Michigan is a no-fault state, meaning you can recover benefits through your PIP auto insurance policy. However, if you meet certain thresholds and another party’s negligence caused your accident, you may be able to file a lawsuit against them.
Filing a lawsuit, though, is not easy. You will need the help of a lawyer to prove the extent of your injuries and suffering and to help you obtain evidence to prove that another party was responsible for what happened.
Even if you only intend to file a claim through your own PIP no-fault insurance, you may still need the help of a lawyer to ensure the insurance company pays you the full and fair amount of benefits you deserve. Unfortunately, it’s common for insurance companies to try to get victims to accept reduced payouts.
So if you are concerned about protecting your rights and getting the money you need and deserve, you should consult an experienced motorcycle accident attorney.
The Lee Steinberg Law Firm: Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
At The Lee Steinberg Law Firm, we have years of experience handling Michigan motorcycle accident claims. As a result, we can help you navigate the claims process and ensure you receive the full and fair settlement you deserve for your losses.
Call our Detroit motorcycle accident lawyers at 1-800-LEE-FREE (1-800-533-3733). You’ll pay nothing until we settle your case.
