
There are around 100,000 motorcycle accidents in the United States, with over 5,000 motorcycle fatalities yearly. This means the chance of surviving a motorcycle accident in the U.S. is roughly 95%.
At Kidwell & Gallagher personal injury attorneys, we understand the challenges victims of motorcycle accidents face after a crash. These cases require the help of a motorcycle accident lawyer to help navigate the legal claims process. Here, our lawyers advise on the chances of surviving a motorcycle accident.
The odds of surviving greatly depend on many factors surrounding the accident. These factors are considered during the legal claim process, mostly when determining liability.
The number and type of vehicles involved in an accident can greatly influence survival rates. In motorcycle accidents, collisions with larger vehicles such as cars and trucks are more likely to result in fatalities. Their size and weight are often associated with the risk of severe injuries to motorcyclists. Multiple vehicles involved in an accident can also increase the complexity of the collision and reduce the chance of avoiding harm.
The manner in which a collision occurs plays a crucial role in survival odds. Head-on collisions, for instance, are more likely to be fatal than rear-end or sideswipe collisions. Head-on impacts often lead to severe injuries as the motorcyclist is directly exposed to the force of the collision.
Head-on collisions account for 2% of all car accidents but are responsible for 10% of all traffic-related fatalities. This high fatality rate can be attributed to the substantial kinetic energy transferred into the bodies of both drivers.
Speed is a significant determinant of the outcome of motorcycle accidents. High speeds dramatically decrease the time riders can react and take evasive actions. Moreover, accidents at high speeds often result in more severe injuries. Slower speeds give riders a better chance to control their bikes, mitigate the impact, and potentially avoid the collision altogether.
Wearing well-fitting safety gear can make a difference in surviving a motorcycle accident. Helmets, protective jackets, gloves, and sturdy footwear may greatly protect riders.
For instance, industry-standard motorcycle helmets can significantly reduce head injury risk by 69% and the risk of death by 37%. Helmets provide a layer of protection that can make a significant difference in crash outcomes.
The condition of the road is another key factor influencing the survival odds of motorcyclists. These may include:
Poor road conditions can decrease traction and control, making accidents more likely. If any of these factors cause a motorcycle accident leading to injury, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help determine liability and bring the liable parties to account.
Despite fighting to reduce injuries and fatalities associated with motorcycle accidents, odds still suggest the possibility of severe injuries and fatalities, particularly due to someone’s negligence. If you happen to be a victim, a motorcycle accident attorney from our firm will stand by your side to recover compensation from the at-fault party. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Craig W. Kidwell is the managing partner of Kidwell & Gallagher, Ltd., and exclusively represents injured workers in Nevada. Mr. Kidwell has been practicing workers’ compensation law in Nevada since 1999 and has acted as lead counsel on over 2,000 contested workers’ compensation claims. Mr. Kidwell represents injured workers in Nevada through all stages of Nevada’s complex worker’s compensation system. Craig regularly appears in all levels of Nevada’s administrative workers’ compensation system and has represented injured workers in Nevada’s districts and Supreme Court.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Managing Partner, Craig W. Kidwell who has more than 20 years of legal experience as a personal injury attorney.