The number of motorcycle accident fatalities annually continues to present challenges for public health and safety. There were a total of 4,502 motorcycle accident fatalities in 2010 and similar numbers were recorded for 2011. From 1997 to 2008, there was an increase in motorcycle accident fatalities that more than doubled from 2,116 fatalities in 1997 to 5,312 fatalities in 2008.
Also during 2010, motorcyclists accounted for 14 percent of all traffic accident fatalities. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that when a motorcycle is involved in a crash with a passenger vehicle, the passenger vehicle usually violated the motorcycle’s right-of-way. The motorcycle’s right of way is commonly violated in these instances because motorcycles are smaller visual targets and drivers of passenger vehicles do not remain attentive. Passenger vehicle drivers can be distracted or simply inattentive to roadway details.
When the driver of a passenger vehicle negligently injures or kills a motorcyclist, compensation may be available for the damages suffered by the motorcyclist and their family. Motorcycle accident victims and their families may face physical, financial and emotional struggles following a motorcycle accident. For that reason, legal options are available to help motorcycle accident victims when they are harmed.
Knowledge and understanding of the resources is important for motorcycle accident victims when they are involved in an accident with a negligent driver. Motorcycle accident victims do not have to needlessly suffer following an accident and should be familiar with protections available to them.
Source: GHSA.org, “Motorcyclist Traffic Fatalities by State,” Accessed Feb. 2, 2016
