How Dangerous is Riding a Motorcycle in North Carolina?

Riding a motorcycle through the hills, mountains, coastline, and communities of North Carolina is a uniquely exhilarating experience. Hitting the road on two wheels can be thrilling and freeing, and it can even foster a sense of comradery and friendship with other local riders. There is nothing quite like the experience. However, in addition to the fun and freedom motorcycles offer a rider, you may wonder, how dangerous is riding a motorcycle?

Motorcycles lack the safety features and visibility of cars and trucks, making them potentially dangerous vehicles. An accident can lead to life-long physical, mental, and financial struggles, highlighting the importance of ensuring riders understand what they are getting into every time they hit the open road.

How Dangerous Are Motorcycles?

Are motorcycles dangerous? In a word, yes. Data from the Federal Highway Administration indicates that in North Carolina, motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash. Additional numbers from the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles show that in one recent year, 202 motorcyclists lost their lives on state roadways, up a sizable 14.8 percent compared to fatalities from the previous year. Another 2,972 riders were injured in crashes, up 6 percent from the previous year.

Motorcyclists continue to disproportionately overrepresent significant injuries and fatalities on North Carolina and United States roadways. Nationally, 15 percent of all traffic fatalities are motorcyclists.

What Makes Motorcycles More Dangerous than Other Motor Vehicles?

Motorcycles are more dangerous than other types of motor vehicles, partly because of their smaller size. It is more challenging for other motorists to see motorcycle riders because they do not take up as much space and are less visible. Motorcycles can also easily fit into the blind spots of more cars and trucks.

One way riders can help stand out so other vehicles see them is by wearing bright colors or reflective materials on their helmets and riding gear. Always use turn signals and lights when riding to enhance your visibility, and when possible, be aware of riding in other drivers’ blind spots.

Motorcycles are always hazardous because they lack the same safety features as cars and other passenger vehicles, such as airbags and seatbelts. Passenger vehicles are also surrounded by thousands of pounds of metal and fiberglass, which can help absorb the force of violent impact. Motorcycle riders are exposed.

Riders can help protect themselves by investing in quality safety gear, the most important being a DOT-approved safety helmet. Helmets save lives. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 69 percent. They are also effective in helping to prevent fatalities for riders and passengers. North Carolina law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear a helmet when riding that complies with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218. Helmets should be snug but not uncomfortable, have a thick inner polystyrene liner, and a chin strap to keep it properly secured. Additional safety equipment should include sturdy and durable riding boots, eye protection like goggles or a face shield, and leather jackets, pants, or chaps to help prevent road rash.

Finally, these vehicles are also dangerous in the hands of reckless or inexperienced riders. Motorcycles do not have the same stability and maneuverability as other vehicles. Inexperienced riders may have a challenging time controlling a motorcycle. They may also be more prone to dangerous exhibitions of speeding, lane-splitting, and stunts that jeopardize their safety and the safety of other motorists.

All experienced and first-time riders can benefit from taking a motorcycle safety course. North Carolina motorcycle dealerships and local community colleges offer courses that teach safety basics and riding skills, including braking, turning, and balancing. These classes are also an excellent way to meet other riders and learn more about the motorcycle community.

Been in a Motorcycle Accident in North Carolina?

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident, our legal team here at Law Tigers is ready to help. For decades, we’ve helped defend the rights of wronged motorcycle riders by providing skilled representation and sound legal advice across the United States. To get a free case evaluation or to schedule your free consultation, call us at Law Tigers today at 1-800-529-8443.