While the rate of car accidents on U.S. roads has dropped in recent years, the rate of motorcycle accidents has held steady or climbed in most states. Here is a look at recent motorcycle accident statistics nationwide, courtesy of the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA).
- Between 2005 and 2009, motorcycle helmet use nationwide increased from 48 percent to 67 percent. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that the additional helmet use saved more than 1,129 lives in 2008, and that another 823 lives could have been saved if all riders that year had worn helmets.
- Nearly 25 percent of all motorcyclists who were injured in crashes in 2009 were riding their bikes with invalid or expired licenses or endorsements. By contrast, only about 12 percent of car drivers who were killed in crashes were not licensed at the time of the accident.
- Thirty percent of all motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes in 2009 were intoxicated at the time of the accident, with a blood alcohol concentration above 0.08 percent. Forty-three percent of motorcyclists who died in crashes had a BAC of 0.14 percent or higher.
- Thirty-five percent of all motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes in 2009 were speeding at the time of the crash, compared to only 23 percent of passenger car drivers.
At Jurewitz Law Group Injury & Accident Lawyers, our experienced San Diego motorcycle accident attorneys can help you seek the compensation you need if you’ve been injured in a crash. Contact us today by calling (888) 233-5020 for a free and confidential case evaluation.
