What Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents Are Fatal?

Motorcycle riders account for a disproportionate share of crash-related injuries and deaths. Figures from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) show that of the more than 101,000 motorcycle crashes nationwide in one recent year, over 6,400 collisions involved a motorcycle fatality. (See Vehicles Table 50 in the linked report.) Furthermore, the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) reports that about 14 percent of all traffic deaths statewide in one recent year were motorcyclists. That’s a shocking figure, particularly since motorcycles account for just over 2 percent of all vehicles registered statewide.

What makes motorcycle crashes so dangerous, and what can survivors do if a family member dies in a collision?

What Makes Motorcycle Crashes Particularly Deadly?

Motorcycle crashes often cause fatal injuries because riders lack the protection that cars and trucks provide. Even with helmets and protective gear, motorcyclists remain exposed to direct impacts with other vehicles, the pavement, or roadside objects. Motorcycles’ smaller size also makes them harder for drivers to see, which increases the chance of collisions. High speeds, sudden stops, and loss of control can turn even a minor incident into a deadly crash.

Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Occur?

Many people believe that most motorcycle accidents occur on interstates or rural roads, but the available data suggest otherwise. The California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) found that just 25 percent of fatal motorcycle crashes statewide occurred on rural roads. The rest happened in urban areas.

Additionally, OTS researchers report that over half of fatal motorcycle collisions occur on “principal” or “minor” arterials. These are non-interstate roads that see heavy traffic, particularly during rush hours. Only 12 percent of fatal motorcycle accidents statewide occur on interstates.

Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle riders’ lack of protection compared to people in cars means they’re more likely to suffer catastrophic or fatal injuries. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Concussions and other traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries, including partial or complete paralysis
• Internal bleeding
• Internal organ injuries
• Severe road rash
• Severe cuts and bruises
• Broken bones
• Severed or crushed limbs
• Scarring and disfigurement, particularly to the head and face
• PTSD and other mental health conditions

Wrongful Death Claims After Fatal Motorcycle Crashes

If you lost a family member in a motorcycle crash, a wrongful death claim gives you a method to hold the liable party accountable. You can pursue compensation for your family member’s medical costs, funeral expenses, and the income they provided. You can also seek compensation for the loss of their companionship and support. California law sets strict deadlines for filing wrongful death lawsuits, so acting quickly matters. An experienced motorcycle lawyer can guide you through the process and protect your rights.

How a Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Help

Holding a driver accountable for a fatal motorcycle crash is challenging, but an experienced lawyer can help. Your attorney will investigate the crash, collect evidence, and identify every responsible party. They’ll communicate with the insurance companies and defense lawyers, so you don’t have to. Finally, they’ll calculate your lost income, medical bills, and funeral costs to maximize your claim’s value. With proper legal guidance, you can focus on your family while your lawyer protects your rights.

Contact Our Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

At Law Tigers, we focus on helping injured motorcycle riders find justice and recover fair compensation. We know the unfair biases that injured riders often face and understand your needs. If a family member died in a crash, we take on your legal burden so you can grieve in peace. Let us handle the insurance companies and legal work while you focus on healing.

Call now or complete our contact form for a free consultation with Law Tigers, America’s motorcycle accident lawyers.