A Look at 2022 Motorcycle Accident Facts and Stats

Before diving into a frank consideration of 2022 motorcycle facts and stats, we take a moment to consider some basic information about ridership in the United States in this day and age. The reality is that motorcycle ridership has been increasing in recent years due to its convenience, cost savings, and environmental benefits when compared to other forms of transportation. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, in 2018, there were 8.79 million registered motorcycles nationwide, an increase of 3 percent from 2017 and more than double the number of registered bikes since 1997.

Motorcycles offer an economical alternative to traditional cars or trucks with average gas mileage of 42 to 46 miles per gallon. Overall, motorcycles also have much lower insurance premiums than their four-wheeled counterparts. Additionally, motorcycle riders may be eligible for discounts on toll roads and parking fees in some areas, further adding to the savings potential.

Benefits of riding a motorcycle go beyond just financial savings. Motorcycles also have a significantly lower environmental impact than traditional motor vehicles. This is a result due of their lighter weight and smaller engines. As a consequence, motorcycles use less fuel and emit fewer pollutants than other types of vehicles on roadways today.

Despite all the positive aspects associated with motorcycle ridership, it is still incredibly important for riders to use extra caution when out on the road. In a moment, we present facts and statistics that underscore some inherent risks associated with motorcycles and motorcycle ridership in the United States today.

Death and Injury Risk on Motorcycles

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled. In addition, motorcyclists are five times more likely to be injured over the same distance traveled. These startling stats highlight the importance of always being aware of one’s surroundings while operating a motorcycle.

Closer Look at Motorcycle Deaths in 2022

Motorcyclists account for over 380,000 deaths each year around the world, a high percentage of these deaths occurring in the United States. 91 percent of all individuals who are killed in motorcycle accidents are men. Drunk drivers caused 33 percent of all motorcycle accidents that resulted in the death of a biker.

U.S. States with the Highest Rate of Motorcycle Deaths

Mississippi is the most dangerous state to be a motorcyclist at this juncture in time, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The NHTSA explains that Mississippi faces an alarming rate of motorcycle accidents because of a notably higher than average rate of drunk and reckless driving in that state. The other two states that are the most dangerous in the nation for motorcyclists are:

• Texas
• South Carolina

Most Commonplace Motorcycle Accident Scenarios

Approximately 75 percent of all motorcycle accidents in the United States involve collisions with passenger cars or trucks. About 56 percent of U.S. motorcycle accidents occur on city or urban streets, oftentimes at intersections. A majority of motorcycle crashes and collisions involve vehicles moving at an average of 30 miles per hour.

Most Commonplace Nonfatal Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Many people conclude that the most commonplace type of nonfatal injury arising from motorcycle accidents is traumatic brain injury. While traumatic brain injuries do occur following a good many motorcycle accidents, and can have dire consequences, the most frequently occurring nonfatal injuries include:

• Leg injuries
• Foot injuries

Helmets … Help

Helmets are helpful when it comes to reducing the risk of head and neck injuries in a motorcycle accident:

• Helmets reduce motorcycle accident deaths by 37 percent
• Helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69 percent

Your Legal Rights After a Motorcycle Accident

If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by the negligence of someone else, the legal team at The Doan Law Firm is here for you at (800) 349-0000. We keep our Houston motorcycle accident lawyer hotline staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 52 weeks a year, including all major holidays.

A nationwide firm, we can schedule a no-cost and no-obligation initial consultation and case evaluation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at any one of our 40 offices or online. The Doan Law Firm makes an attorney fee pledge to you: We will never charge at attorney fee unless we win your case for you.