The days are getting longer and sunnier. On the plus side for bikers, that means better, longer rides. The downside: more bikes on the road for longer periods means more accidents.
Our analysis uncovers the riders most at risk, the reasons for the rising numbers of injuries and fatalities, and some measures that would bring the numbers down.
The Dangers of Motorcycles
Although motorcycles comprise just 3% of registered vehicles in the U.S., study data suggests that they make up 3.5% of traffic injuries and 15% (6,335) of annual traffic fatalities.
Motorcyclists are 22 times more likely to die in a road accident than car occupants. And while it's well known that motorcycles offer a more dangerous ride than passenger vehicles, some bikers are more likely to be injured or killed than others.
The Factors that Put Bike Riders At Risk
Alcohol
Unsurprisingly, drinking alcohol before a ride significantly increases a motorcyclist's chances of getting injured or dying. In 2021, 26% of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were drunk or impaired.
Of all drivers or riders involved in U.S. road accidents, motorcyclists are the group most likely to be under the influence, with the 35-to-39 and 45-to-49 age groups most likely to ride their bikes after a few beers.
Speed
Speeding also increases the risk of injury or death while riding a motorcycle; in 2023 it was a factor in 35% of crashes. Here's a breakdown illustrating the percentage of each age group for which speeding was a factor in fatal crashes.
As the study data shows, 21- 24-year-olds ride their bikes faster and more dangerously than other age groups. This is largely due to a lack of experience, a high level of risky riding, and comparatively low helmet usage.
Many in the 21-24 age bracket are new to motorcycling, with a tendency to purchase high-powered bikes too advanced for their riding level. Also, their decision-making skills are still evolving. Impulsive riders are more likely to weave through traffic, ride without a helmet—especially in states with lax helmet laws – or commit speeding offences.
Speeding on a bike is far more dangerous than in a passenger vehicle; for the bike rider, a tiny piece of debris in the road can cause a serious accident.
The type of injuries motorcyclists typically suffer include road rash, burns, soft tissue damage, fractures, broken bones, and head injuries which can lead to TBI and a disabilities.
Helmets
Head injuries are far less likely for riders wearing a helmet. They reduce the risk of a head injury by 69% and the risk of death by 37% – so those who choose not to wear one run a much higher risk of serious injury or death during an accident.
However, data analysis shows that in 2023, only 74% of riders wore a Department of Transportation (DOT)-compliant helmet while riding their bike. 18% of riders wore a non-DOT-compliant helmet, while 8.7% of riders wore no helmet at all.
DOT-compliant helmets have passed key safety standards like impact resistance and retention strength. They're thick, typically weigh about 3 pounds, and come with sturdy chin straps.
Safety-compliant helmets show the ‘DOT' stamp on the back and also feature the manufacturer name, model number, and a verification that they're certified. If a biker is buying a helmet, they must first measure their head and then choose one that fits its exact dimensions, as every helmet is different. It's not a good idea to buy a helmet that's been used by someone else as it might well be worn out and misshapen.
Our analysis shows that the level of helmet use varies by region, with riders in the West of the country most likely (91.7%) to use one. Bikers in the Northeast (74.3%) and South (72.6%) are less likely to wear one, whereas Midwest riders (57.7%) are least likely of all.
The Importance of a Motorcycle License
Riding a motorcycle is not the same as driving a car, and demands its own very specific set of skills and knowledge. While motorcycle license laws differ by state, riders in every state must have a motorcycle license as well as a standard driver's license.
Study data shows that 35% of motorcyclists who crash their bikes do so without a valid license. If a motorcycle rider has not passed a test and does not possess a license, they should not ride any bike.
And, even when licensed, motorcyclists are not necessarily ready to ride all types of bike. For their own, and everyone else's safety, motorcyclists should always make sure they are used to using their bike in all weather and can properly handle it before heading out onto the roads.
The Perils of Choosing the Wrong Type of Bike
If a biker chooses the wrong bike and can't handle it, they massively increase their chances of suffering an accident. There are so many different types of motorcycle design and performance level, which allows riders to choose a very specific model type to suit their riding style.
High-performance Supersport bikes, favoured by younger riders, can reach extreme, dangerous speeds beyond 180mph. This means they can accommodate aggressive road behavior, raising the risk of a fatal crash.
But as well as Supersport models, there are numerous other, less dangerous types of motorcycle.
- Unclad/Sport bikes are the second most dangerous type, as, like Supersport bikes, they're built for speed and agility, which can encourage aggressive riding.
- Sport-touring bikes are the third most dangerous type. Again, they're designed for speed, but also for comfort. Because of the latter factor, they can be ridden over long distances, which can lead to drowsy driving.
- Touring bikes are the fourth most dangerous ride. Although they're built for long distances and comfort, they're also big and heavy, which can make them tricky to handle over long periods.
- Cruisers and Standards are the least dangerous type of bike and are designed for relaxed riding at low speed.
How to Stay Safe on Your Motorcycle
Our study has closely considered the myriad dangers of riding a motorcycle. Here's a summary of some of the ways motorcycle riders can stay safe while out on the road.
Always Wear a DOT-Approved Helmet – and Make Sure It's New, and That It Fits
Helmets are a crucial factor in motorcycle rider safety, reducing the risk of death by 37% and the risk of head injuries by 69%.
Wear Full Protective Gear
Protective clothing can make all the difference for a motorcyclist suffering an accident. A leather (or heavy denim) jacket, gloves, and over-the-ankle boots, can prevent serious injuries like road rash and fractures.
Complete a Rider Safety Course
By enrolling on a motorcycle safety course, a motorcyclist can improve their riding skills and hazard awareness, and can contribute towards safer riding practices. This could be a key factor for a young rider who owns a powerful motorcycle.
Avoid Riding While Inebriated
Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time, which significantly increases the risk of crashes. No motorcyclist should take the saddle after drinking any amount of alcohol.
Obey Speed Limits and Ride Defensively
Speeding is a leading factor when it comes to motorcycle crashes. By adhering to speed limits and anticipating other drivers' actions, all conscientious riders can prevent accidents.
Look After Your Motorcycle
By routinely checking and maintaining a motorcycle, a biker can ensure a safer ride and reduce the likelihood of mechanical failures.
By observing just a few of these suggestions, motorcyclists can drastically lessen the number of injuries and fatalities on our roads each year. Riding a motorcycle is not easy; without adequate training and preparation the risk-level soars.
It should go without saying that all motorcyclists should first get their license, but also become adept at using their motorcycle of choice – especially if it's a high-powered model.
Keeping speed levels down is a must, as is riding sober. Even under perfect conditions, riding a motorcycle is still a potentially dangerous business.
As personal injury experts, Vaziri Law perfectly understands the repercussions of reckless road behaviour. Please do get in touch with us if you need a law firm that commands the attention and respect that your injury deserves; a firm that will ensure your voice is heard and your story is told.