Motorcycle crashes are often more serious than automobile crashes because people on motorcycles are so much more vulnerable than people in cars. Every day on Maryland highways, people are injured in motorcycle accidents. A number of different organizations track motorcycle accident statistics. These statistics can make drivers more aware and safer on the roads.
Fatalities much more likely on motorcycles
Based on crash statistics kept by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are at 29 times the risk of a deadly crash, as compared to passengers in cars. This may be because motorcycles lack modern safety features like seat belts and airbags. People on motorcycles are also 4 times as likely to suffer an injury in a crash.
Most motorcycle accidents are injury accidents
Also according to the NHTSA, approximately 80% of motorcycle accidents lead to injury or fatality. The NHTSA attributes this high likelihood to the ejection of the rider during a motorcycle accident.
Female passengers at greater risk
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has reported that, during the year 2019, 60% of female fatalities from motorcycle accidents were passengers. Males were driving the motorcycles at the time of the crash in most cases.
Helmets and boots are effective safety equipment
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the risk of a motorcycle accident head injury is reduced by 69% for riders who are wearing helmets. A helmet can protect riders from head injury or death in most cases. Likewise, the organization Motorcycle Accident reports that protective motorcycle boots prevent leg or foot injuries 90% of the time they’re worn.
Reducing danger for motorcycle riders
The Insurance Information Institute released data indicating that more than 5,000 motorcyclists died in motorcycle crashes in 2019. Wearing safety equipment and increasing awareness of motorcyclists and among motorcyclists can make riding safer for everyone.