Motorcycle Fatalities Are on the Rise

Motorcycle Death and Injury Rates Surge Despite Lower Traffic Volume

Recent data from the National Safety Council paints a grim picture for motorcyclists across the United States. In 2023, motorcycle-related deaths reached 6,335, a 1% increase from the previous year. More troubling is the 19% spike in the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled. This alarming rise occurred even as total motorcycle mileage dropped by 15% in the same period.

While motorcycles only account for 3% of all registered vehicles and 0.6% of vehicle miles traveled, riders represent a staggering 15.5% of all traffic fatalities and 3.4% of all injuries. Over the past decade, motorcycle fatalities have increased by 38%, and the fatality rate has grown by 36%, underscoring the dangerous reality many riders face daily.

Nonfatal injuries have also ticked up, with a 0.6% increase in the number of reported cases and a 19% jump in the injury rate. These increases suggest that riders today face significantly more risk per mile than in previous years.

Contributing Factors Behind the Fatality and Injury Trend

The data also identifies several patterns in fatal crashes involving motorcyclists:

• Urban Roadways: 64% of fatal motorcycle crashes occurred on urban roads.
• Good Weather Conditions: 94% happened in good weather, challenging the common belief that inclement weather is a leading factor.
• Daylight Crashes: Nearly half of all fatalities occurred during the daytime.
• Multiple Vehicle Collisions: 56% involved two or more vehicles.
• Helmet Use: Surprisingly, 62% of riders who died were wearing helmets.
• Alcohol Use: 74% of operators in fatal crashes were not impaired, suggesting driver behavior alone isn’t always the main cause.

These findings point to external risks beyond rider control, such as inattentive or reckless drivers, poor infrastructure, and vehicle defects.

Who Can Be Held Legally Responsible in Motorcycle Accidents?

When a motorcycle crash leads to injury or death, liability may fall on multiple parties depending on the facts of the case:

• Negligent Drivers: If another motorist was speeding, distracted, or failed to yield, they could be financially liable.
• Vehicle Manufacturers: Defective parts or design flaws in either the motorcycle or another vehicle may lead to a product liability claim.
• Government Entities: Poorly maintained roads, missing signage, or hazardous conditions may result in municipal liability.

Victims and their families must act swiftly to identify all potential sources of compensation. An attorney can help investigate fault and build a strong case.

Legal Claims Available to Victims and Families

Those injured in a motorcycle crash or who lost a loved one may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and emotional suffering
• Funeral and burial costs in fatal accidents
• Loss of companionship and support

Wrongful death lawsuits and personal injury claims can help hold negligent parties accountable and provide financial relief.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash

Timely action is essential after a motorcycle accident. Victims should:

• Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Obtain a copy of the police report
• Gather witness statements and preserve all physical evidence
• Photograph the scene, damage, and injuries
• Contact a personal injury attorney with experience in motorcycle accident litigation

Quick response helps preserve critical evidence and strengthens the potential lawsuit.

Motorcycle Fatality and Injury Lawsuit FAQs

How do I know if I have a valid motorcycle accident claim? If you were injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash due to someone else’s negligence, you may have a case. A personal injury lawyer can assess liability and damages during a free consultation.

Can I still file a lawsuit if my loved one was wearing a helmet? Yes. Helmet use does not absolve other drivers or entities from responsibility if they caused or contributed to the accident.

What if no other vehicle was involved in the crash? Even single-vehicle accidents can lead to claims if road hazards, defective parts, or government negligence contributed to the crash.

Is there a time limit to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit? Yes. Each state has a statute of limitations. It is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible to avoid missing important deadlines.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP For A Free Case Review

If you or a loved one suffered injury or death in a motorcycle crash, legal help is available. At Parker Waichman LLP, we fight for victims nationwide. Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free consultation. Let us help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide motorcycle accident law firm is ready to assist you.