JUST HOW DANGEROUS IS RIDING A MOTORCYCLE?

Most people have a good understanding that riding a motorcycle is inherently more dangerous than traveling in other motor vehicles. Per each mile traveled, federal safety experts say that 2011 statistics show that motorcycle fatalities were 30 times higher than the number of those killed in cars.

One of the most obvious reasons for that is motorcycles simply don’t offer the same amount of protection as enclosed vehicles. Another important factor is the motorcycles relatively small size. When compared to other vehicles, it’s easier to see why the motorcycles smaller profile makes it easier for other motorists to overlook. A sad testament to the reduced overall safety of motorcycles compared to cars is that in 2013, at least 4,381 motorcyclists perished in collisions.

The following are some interesting statistics about the dangerousness of motorcycle riding:

— Head injuries are one of the more common occurrences in fatal motorcycle injuries. The use of a helmet has been statistically proven to be an effective life-saving device for motorcyclists. Despite the fact that only 19 states and the District of Columbia require motorcyclists to wear helmets, they are roughly 37 percent effective in preventing motorcycle fatalities. In fact, wearing a helmet prevented about 67 percent of motorcycle accident victims studied from suffering brain injuries.

— Women motorcyclists who are passengers are exceptionally prone to fatal accidents. Statistics taken from 2013 indicate that 61 percent of women who died in motorcycle accidents that year were riding as passengers at the time of their accidents.

— Perhaps not surprisingly, many fatal motorcycle accidents occurred during warmer months. It’s estimated that the period of 2013, between May through September, recorded 62 percent of all fatal motorcycle accidents that year. August was the deadliest month.

If you are a Pennsylvania motorcyclist who has been injured by negligent driver, there are a few things you should know. Not every motorcycle accident is fatal, although many of these accidents leave victims suffering with substantial injuries. Other motorists have a duty to exercise reasonable care in the operation of their vehicles, regardless of your motorcycle’s smaller size. You have just as much right to use the roadways as other vehicles.

Fortunately, state statutes allow injured motorcyclists to sue drivers who are responsible for their injuries. Your Pennsylvania personal injury attorney can assist you by using the legal system to pursue compensation for your injuries.

Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, “Motorcycles and ATVs,” accessed April. 16, 2015