MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS

According to the US Department of Transportation's motorcycle accident statistics and rates, a motorcyclist is 16 times more likely to die in an accident than a motor vehicle occupant. Motorcyclists are also three times more likely to be injured than people driving in cars, according to the same set of motorcycle accident statistics. Over half of all motorcycles involved in fatal crashes collided with another motor vehicle in transit.

Motorcycle accident statistics and rates show that one of the best ways to prevent serious injury or death remains the use of safety equipment such as helmets, as well as defensive driving practices. More motorcycle accident statistics from the US DOT (these pertain particularly to 2000):

• Motorcycle accidents and injuries are more likely to occur at night-with an increased number of fatal crashes occurring after dark as well (motorcycle accident statistics show that 60% of all fatalities happened at night)
• Nearly half of all motorcycle operators involved in fatal crashes were exceeding the speed limit
• Around 80% of all motorcycle accidents end in injury or death
• Motorcycle operators involved in fatal crashes had higher intoxication rats than drivers of any other type of vehicle involved in a fatal accident

These types of motorcycle accident statistics and rates can have a prejudicial effect on people, and can even influence the outcome of litigation and criminal proceedings. It is important to understand that motorcycle accident statistics are gathered from a large number of accidents, and that your specific motorcycle accident could completely contradict the impression created by motorcycle accident statistics and rates.

A Florida attorney who has experience representing motorcyclists can help you to review motorcycle accident statistics from various sources, and explain how they can be used in your particular situation.ost cases, a motorcycle accident involves the motorcycle and another moving vehicle. In almost 75% of these types of motorcycle accidents, the front of the motorcycle strikes the other vehicle. However, more than a quarter of motorcycle accidents are caused by the motorcycle crashing into a stationary object. Like other vehicular accidents, motorcycle accidents are much more likely when either driver is speeding or under the influence of alcohol. Motorcycle accidents can be prevent through defensive driving/riding. The number of motorcyclists involved in a fatal motorcycle accident while speeding was double that for drivers of other vehicles. Reducing the frequency and severity of motorcycle accidents can therefore be as simple as observing posted speed limits. Another major factor in motorcycle accidents is vehicle's blind spots. Motorcyclists who make their presence known can avoid motorcycle accidents caused by other drivers. A helmet can greatly reduce head and neck injuries if a motorcycle accident does occur.

The most important thing to do if you are involved in a motorcycle accident is to remain calm. If possible, get the contact information of everyone involved in the motorcycle accident. Exchange insurance information, and review the police report if possible. Make sure the details of the motorcycle accident are included: weather, road conditions, number and types of vehicles, and even diagrams of the motorcycle accident can help insurance companies make the correct conclusions as to cause and fault.

The injuries received in motorcycle accidents are generally much more severe than those from regular vehicular accidents. Motorcycle accidents can result in debilitating injuries and even death. If a motorcycle accident has affected your quality of life, or if a loved one has been severely injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, you may wish to speak to an attorney who is familiar with the legal aspects of motorcycle accidents.