Facts About Motorcycle Accidents in The U.S.

Riders in Lexington enjoy the freedom and convenience that their motorcycles provide. The risk of getting seriously hurt by a reckless car or truck driver usually is not the first thing on their minds. But that danger is always there. Too many motorists out there don’t respect motorcyclists’ right of way or fail to notice a bike in their path.

The NHTSA has released data about fatal motorcycle accidents in the U.S. for 2020. Here are some important points.

• Most (61 percent) deadly crashes happened in urban areas.

• Only about a third of these incidents occurred in intersections.

• Weather and light were not common factors. The vast majority of deaths (97 percent) happened in clear or cloudy conditions without rain, snow or fog. And 57 percent happened during the day.

Thus, a large number of motorcycle fatalities are the result of human negligence. Common errors that cause drivers to crash into motorcycles include:

• Failing to yield to an approaching motorcycle on a left turn.

• Not checking mirrors and blind spots before merging or changing lanes.

• Following a rider too closely and rear-ending them when the rider is forced to brake suddenly.

Reasonable efforts by drivers to prevent causing a collision with a motorcycle make a big difference. Most drivers do their best to avoid harming riders. But it only takes one careless motorist to endanger you and your passenger. Even a “minor” accident which everybody survives can cause severe disabilities. You might lose your ability to work and take care of yourself and your children. It’s only fair that the driver who caused you injuries should be the one to compensate you for related costs.