The feeling of open air and the freedom of riding a motorcycle around Louisiana are unmatched. However, motorcycle accident statistics can be alarming. These statistics–accident percentages, fatality risks, and serious injury likelihood–might discourage you from riding.
They shouldn’t. Fortunately, most motorcycle rides are safe. The rider and passengers usually arrive safely at their destination. Still, it’s helpful to know the chances of a motorcycle accident and what to do if you are involved in one–just in case.
Are Motorcycles Unsafe?
Motorcycles aren’t inherently dangerous. By following traffic rules and employing defensive driving techniques, many motorcyclists can stay safe.
Motorcycles, however, present unique challenges. They’re harder to control than cars and other vehicles, plus they’re smaller and less visible to other drivers. In a crash, motorcycles offer little protection, lacking the steel frame, airbags, and seatbelts found in cars.
Therefore, it’s crucial that motorcyclists take extra safety precautions to avoid getting into a serious crash.
How Often Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycles comprised only 3.4% of all registered vehicles and 0.7% of all motor vehicle miles traveled in the United States in 2022.
Yet, the data for 2022 showed:
| Statistic | Value |
| Motorcycle Fatalities | 6,218 |
| Motorcycle Injuries | 82,687 |
| Odds of a Motorcycle Accident | < 1% |
| Contribution to All Motor Vehicle Crashes | ~3.5% |
| Injury Rate for Motorcyclists (per 100,000 vehicles) | 864 |
| Registered Motorcycles in the US | ~9.6 million |
| Percentage of Fatal Motorcycle Accidents (based on 6,218 deaths) | 0.000065 percent |
| Percentage of Motorcyclists Injured in Crashes (based on 84,898 injuries) | 0.00088% |
While the odds of a motorcycle accident sit at less than 1 percent, the likelihood of being injured if you are involved in an accident is much greater.
According to motorcycle accident stats from the NHTSA, the injury rate for motorcyclists was 864 in 2022, which was lower than the injury rate for passenger car occupants (927) but higher than the injury rate for light-truck occupants (535) per 100,000 vehicles.
What Percentage of Motorcyclists Crash?
According to the Federal Highway Administration and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 38% to 48% of all motorcycle accidents are single-vehicle accidents. The likelihood of a motorcycle accident increases when the rider is impaired, unlicensed, or inexperienced.
Motorcyclists are five times more likely to get into a motor vehicle accident than those in passenger cars. The NHTSA estimates that about 72 out of every 100,000 motorcycle riders will experience a crash during their lifetime–or 0.07% of bikers.
What Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents are Fatal?
In 2022 and 2023, motorcyclists accounted for 15% of all traffic fatalities, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The fatality rate for motorcyclists was 64.99. Based on vehicle miles traveled, this makes motorcyclists 28 times more likely than occupants in passenger cars to die in a motor vehicle crash.
What Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents are the Rider’s Fault?
Just because a single-vehicle accident occurred does not necessarily mean that the motorcyclist is at fault. The accident could have occurred because of defective auto parts, dangerous roadway design, road hazards, or the negligent actions of another driver that caused the motorcycle to swerve and crash.
Despite the outdated stereotype that motorcyclists are dangerous drivers, around 60% of motor vehicle crashes involving two vehicles are the fault of the driver of the passenger vehicle. In 44% of fatal two-vehicle crashes in 2022, the motorcyclist traveled straight when a passenger vehicle turned left in front of them.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents can be caused by various factors, including:
- Negligent actions by other drivers
- Defective motorcycle or automotive parts
- Hazardous road conditions
- Impaired or inexperienced riding
- Passenger vehicles failing to yield
According to the data, passenger vehicle drivers cause about 60% of multi-vehicle motorcycle accidents.
Car Accident vs. Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Because motorcyclists lack the protection that passenger vehicles have, they are more likely to suffer severe injuries and tragic fatalities when they do crash.
Some of the most common injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Fractures
- Road rash
- Leg and foot injuries
If you have suffered any of these injuries in a crash, seek medical attention immediately. Then, contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer for support.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Motorcycle Accident in Crowley, Louisiana?
Victims of motorcycle accidents may be entitled to damages. These include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. The specific amount depends on the circumstances of your case.
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. It is crucial to act quickly to protect your legal rights.
Hurt in a Motorcycle Wreck? Call Kenny Habetz Injury Law for Immediate Assistance
If someone else’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident, you need the assistance of a skilled lawyer.
An experienced attorney from Kenny Habetz Injury Law can explain your legal rights, identify the factors that contributed to your accident, and pursue financial compensation from the party or parties responsible for your injuries.
Call our Crowley motorcycle accident lawyers today at (337) 329-8883 for a free case review.
