Motorcycle accident statistics
Motorcycles have a bad rap amongst the populous as they are less safe than traditional vehicles. In a collision, motorcyclists are not afforded the same protection as a standard vehicle. As indicated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle riders are 26 times more likely to die in a collision than a standard vehicle operator, and 5 times more likely to become critically injured.
NHTSA also reports that in a recent year, 4,957 motorcycle riders were killed, making a 7 percent increase. In that same year, 93,000 motorcyclists were critically injured.
Motorcyclists account for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities, with a fatality rate of 23 percent per 100 million miles traveled, as compared to 1 percent for traditional vehicles.
Common injuries in motorcycle crashes
Motorcycle accident injuries can be devastating in many ways. Any part of the body can be injured in a motorcycle crash.
According to a study conducted by NHTSA, most fatal and catastrophic injuries are sustained when the point of impact happens in front of a motorcycle. The following are some of the most common injuries sustained by motorcycle riders:
- Back and spine injuries. Back and spine injuries from a motorcycle crash can result in paralysis, damaged nerves, life-long disability and even death.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI). In a study conducted by NHTSA on 104,472 motorcyclists injured in crashes, 15 percent of riders suffered TBI. This data includes both those who were and were not wearing property safety equipment. Unfortunately, 54 percent of riders in this study who developed a TBI did not survive.
- Internal bleeding. Damage to the organs can result in internal bleeding which, if left untreated, can cause severe complications and death.
- Bone fractures. Due the the instability of motorcycles, the bike almost always falls over in a crash. This can lead to broken bones, particularly in the arms and legs. These types of injuries are typically not fatal and if treated immediately, can result in a full recovery.
- Whiplash. When a rider is involved in a crash they are often jerked and jolted from their bikes. Any sudden back and forth movement can result in a neck injury (commonly referred to as whiplash).
Our law firm can help motorcycle injury victims
If your motorcycle accident was caused by the negligence of another person, our knowledgeable Las Vegas motorcycle accident lawyers can help you recover the compensation you and your family deserve. Our law firm has recovered millions for injury victims, and we would be honored to help you.
We are available to take your call 24/7. Please call The Injury Firm, at 702-514-1414, or feel free to send us an e-mail at info@injuryfirm.vegas. You may also complete our online form for a free assessment of your case. All consultations are free and 100 percent confidential.
Sources Cited:
- NHTSA: Motorcycles
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