Motorcycle Fatality Rates Continue to Raise Alarm Nationwide

Motorcycle Crash Statistics Reveal Alarming Death Rates and Lawsuit Opportunities for Injured Riders

The number of motorcycles on U.S. roads has more than doubled since 2002, with over 8.8 million registered in 2023. Despite motorcycles accounting for only 3% of all vehicles on the road, they represent 15.5% of all traffic-related deaths. This disconnect between usage and fatality underscores a pressing safety issue. The thrill and efficiency of motorcycle travel come at a cost: motorcyclists are significantly more exposed than drivers in passenger vehicles, with no seatbelts, crumple zones, or airbags to shield them in the event of a crash.

Compared to occupants of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a traffic collision and five times more likely to suffer serious injuries, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. These figures paint a clear picture—motorcycle riders face a disproportionately high risk on the road.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes

Motorcycle crashes often stem from a combination of rider vulnerability, poor visibility, and driver negligence. Key contributing factors include:

Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed significantly reduces reaction time and increases the force of impact. In Missouri, 36% of all traffic deaths involve speeding. When paired with reckless or aggressive behavior, the likelihood of a fatal crash rises dramatically. Even minor speed increases—such as going five mph over the limit—can elevate fatal crash risk by over 20%.

Distracted Driving: Distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of accidents. In Springfield, Missouri, nearly 500 crashes in 2024 were linked to distracted driving. Drivers and riders who glance at phones, adjust controls, or lose focus put everyone at risk. Even momentary distractions can lead to catastrophic results.

Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair motor skills and judgment, increasing the risk of deadly collisions. Impaired drivers may fail to see motorcycles in their blind spots or misjudge speed and distance. The result is often a preventable crash that leaves motorcyclists seriously injured—or worse.

Poor Weather and Road Conditions: Motorcycles are particularly vulnerable to wet or uneven surfaces. Rain, wind, potholes, and poor lighting all reduce stability and traction. Losing control under such conditions can quickly become deadly, especially at higher speeds or on congested roads.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists involved in crashes are far more likely to suffer devastating injuries due to their exposure and lack of external protection. Common injuries include:

• Amputations
• Traumatic brain injuries (even with helmets)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Compound fractures
• Severe road rash requiring skin grafts
• Internal bleeding and organ damage

Recovery from such injuries is long, costly, and physically and emotionally exhausting. Victims may require multiple surgeries, extended physical therapy, and lifelong accommodations.

Legal Rights After a Motorcycle Accident

If another party’s negligence contributed to the crash, victims may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit. These legal claims can provide financial relief and ensure accountability.

Compensation may include:

• Emergency medical expenses and ongoing treatment
• Lost wages or earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability and disfigurement
• Property damage (e.g., destroyed motorcycle, gear)

If a loved one died in a motorcycle crash, surviving family members may also bring a wrongful death claim for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and future lost income.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash

Taking the right steps after a motorcycle accident can protect both your health and your legal rights:

• Get emergency medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
• Document the crash scene with photos and witness statements
• Obtain a copy of the police report
• Do not admit fault or sign insurance forms without legal advice
• Contact a motorcycle accident attorney immediately to review your case

Time is limited in personal injury claims. Every state has deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, that restrict how long you have to file. Delaying your claim may prevent you from recovering compensation.

FAQs: Motorcycle Accident Lawsuits

Do I need a lawyer if I was partially at fault for the crash? Yes. Even if you were partly responsible, you may still be entitled to compensation. Many states follow comparative fault laws, which allow injured victims to recover damages reduced by their percentage of fault.

What if the driver who hit me doesn’t have insurance? You may still have options, such as filing an uninsured motorist claim with your own insurer. A lawyer can help you explore every possible path to compensation.

Can I sue if poor road conditions caused my crash? Yes. If a city, county, or contractor failed to maintain safe road conditions, they could be liable. Claims against government entities have different legal procedures, so consult an attorney quickly.

What types of evidence will help my case? Photographs, video footage (including dash cams or surveillance), police reports, medical records, and witness statements can all strengthen your case. Your attorney will help gather and preserve this evidence.

Contact Parker Waichman LLP For A Free Case Review

If you or someone you love was seriously injured or killed in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver’s negligence or unsafe road conditions, you may have grounds to file a lawsuit. Parker Waichman LLP is a national personal injury law firm that helps motorcycle crash victims fight for the compensation they deserve.

Call 1-800-YOUR-LAWYER (1-800-968-7529) today for a free consultation and learn how we can help you protect your rights and pursue justice. Regardless of your location or where your injury occurred, our nationwide motorcycle accident law firm is ready to assist you.