Attorney
Motorcycle riders experience different risk factors and traffic circumstances compared to other motorists. For the sake of keeping everyone safe, it is worthwhile for each person on the road to be aware of where most motorcycle accidents occur.
Our team at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP can help you understand the legal nuances behind a motorcycle accident. We proudly represent all kinds of motorists across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, with a commitment to support injured individuals in securing maximum compensation for their damages.
Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Occur?
Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that 67% of motorcyclist fatalities occurred in urban areas in 2021. Overall, 35% of motorcycle accidents occurred at traffic intersections. This data illustrates that city streets and major highways passing through urban areas are the places where most motorcycle accidents occur.
What Percentage of Motorcycle Riders Get in Accidents?
The NHTSA data shows that there were 82,686 motorcyclist injuries and 5,932 fatalities in 2021. Compared to the 9,881,414 registered motorcycles that year, this suggests that approximately 0.9% of all motorcycle riders get in accidents.
It is worth noting the NHTSA’s findings that the injury rate for motorcyclists involved in an accident is slightly lower than that of passenger car occupants. However, the fatality rate for motorcyclists involved in an accident is five times higher than that of passenger car occupants. Regardless of where most motorcycle accidents occur, the grim reality is that they often result in death or serious injury for the rider.
What Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents Are the Rider’s Fault?
There are a number of factors in a motor vehicle accident that can constitute a party’s fault, including:
- Violating traffic laws at the time of the accident
- Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Exhibiting negligent or reckless behavior while operating the vehicle
The 2021 NHTSA motorcycle traffic data indicates that motorcyclists involved in fatal accidents had a higher percentage of alcohol impairment compared to other drivers at 28%. Motorcycle safety data also shows that of motorcycle operators involved in fatal crashes in 2022, 35% were riding without valid motorcycle licenses. These facts unfortunately point to a high percentage of motorcycle rider fault in traffic accidents.
Regardless of whether you are a rider or a driver in a car, you deserve a fair chance to pursue compensation for the damages you incur in a motorcycle accident. A motorcycle accident lawyer at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP can advocate for you every step of the way and handle the burden of negotiating with the insurance company while you focus on recovering from your accident.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Knowing where most motorcycle accidents occur is helpful, but it does not change the fact that the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be devastating for everyone involved. Working with a motorcycle accident lawyer at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis ensures that every aspect of your accident claim will proceed smoothly and with great care.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you handle your motorcycle accident case. There is no charge for an initial consultation and you pay nothing for our services until we secure a favorable outcome.