In 2015, 88,000 motorcyclists were injured in motorcycle collisions and 4,976 people were killed, which accounted for 4% of all crash injuries and 14% of all traffic fatalities. [1]    The fatality rate per registered vehicle for motorcyclists in 2015 was 6 times the fatality rate for passenger car occupants according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report.

Though the average rider typically equates a motorcycle crash with a young, inexperienced driver, the majority, 54%, of motorcyclists that were killed in crashes in 2015 were age 40 or over. [2]

To reduce the risk of injury during a motorcycle collision, the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, sponsored by manufacturers and distributors,  works with NHTSA to offer safety and training courses.  The MSF also promotes safety by encouraging riders to use helmets, protective gear, and increase their level of skill. [3]

The MSF also states in an electronic publication for car drivers. The publication is entitled “Ten Things All Car & Truck Drivers Should Know about Motorcycles.” It indicates that over half of all fatal motorcycle crashes involve another vehicle, which is at fault for the crash. [4]   There are many more cars and trucks on the road than motorcycles. However numbers alone don’t tell the full story. From our experience we have found that motorcycles are not noticed by other drivers.  Other drivers look for other large vehicles.  Since they aren’t looking for motorcycles, and since motorcycles are small, other drivers simply overlook them.

Motorcycle drivers can use lane positioning to become more visible, but educating other drivers is the best way to stay safe on the road.  Whether you drive a motorcycle or some other kind of vehicle, keep a careful lookout for other drivers around you.  All vehicles share the roads.  Do your best to share the road with safely with those around you.

Hopefully, you will avoid any collisions. However, if you or a loved one are harmed in a collision we cmay be able to help. The law firm of Gump & Faiella, has experince in representing motorcyclists injured by the negligence ofother drivers. Give us a call at 800-264-3455 for a free consultation about your situation. We can tell you your rights and an help you recover compensation.

[1] Insurance Information Institute, www.iii.org/issue-update/motorcycle-crashes

[2] Injury patterns and severity among motorocyclists treated in US emergency departments, 2001-2008: a comparison of younger and older riders and Journal of Injury Prevention , February 2013.

[3] Motorcycle Safety Foundation, www.msf-usa.org

[4] Motorcyclce Safety Foundation, www.forecaredrivers.com/quicktips.html

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