For many Maryland residents, riding a motorcycle remains preferable to driving a car, especially for short commutes. Experienced motorcyclists know their preference comes with risks not common when driving a car or truck. However, riding experience and years of safe practices build confidence in motorcycle enthusiasts. These motorcyclists might not realize the roads have become more dangerous, as statistics about collisions reveal.
An increase in motorcycle collisions
Data points to a remarkable increase in motorcycle crashes from 2019 to 2020. After three years of declining fatal collisions, 2019 to 2020 saw an 11% increase in fatal collisions, a figure that may worry motorcyclists. The figure may be even more worrisome when compared to deadly car crashes. Fatal motor vehicle accidents increased by 5%, a far lesser amount.
Some points about the fatal crashes may provide some insights to motorcyclists hoping to avoid a disaster. Weekdays and summer months prove more dangerous, so motorcyclists might need to be more cautious when traveling during those times. Even so, motorcyclists can’t prevent a negligent driver from putting others in danger.
Risky practices when on the road
Anyone wishing to avoid motorcycle accidents could benefit from playing it safe. Always wearing a helmet and not making moving violations seems advisable. Unfortunately, a speeding or intoxicated driver could hit a motorcyclist who follows traffic laws and safety suggestions carefully.
Statistics point to speeding as the cause of roughly 33% of all fatal motorcycle crashes between 2016 and 2020. Motorcyclists who ride too fast put themselves and others at risk. They also could face liability claims upon causing an accident. Similarly, speeding drivers who hit a motorcycle may be liable for resulting injuries. A motorcyclist might seek substantial compensation after a catastrophic accident.