What Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents Result in Death?

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According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle riders comprised 15 percent of all traffic fatalities in a recent year. Unfortunately, NHTSA data showed this motorcycle fatality rate was the highest it has been since 1975. 

Are motorcycles dangerous? According to motorcycle accident statistics, motorcyclists face a high risk of serious and fatal injury, especially when other drivers do not share the road safely.

The team with Finz & Finz, P.C. is committed to assisting motorcyclists injured in motorcycle crashes and helping them understand their rights on NYC roads. 

Statistics on Motorcycle Accidents in NYC

You may wonder, “What percent of motorcycle accidents result in death?” According to the NHTSA’s Fatality and Injury Reporting System Tool (FIRST), there were 517,136 motorcycle accidents involving property damage, injury, or death in the U.S. in a recent five-year span. Of these, 27,696 involved motorcycle deaths, or about 5.4 percent.

New York City’s fatal crash rate for motorcyclists is 89 per 100,000 registered motorcycles, nearly twice the rate for motorcyclists in New York State. These numbers continue to rise and also far exceed the fatality rates for car occupants. The U.S. Department of Transportation reports that the national fatality rate for motorcyclists per mile traveled was nearly 24 times the passenger car occupant fatality rate per mile traveled. 

Factors Affecting the Chances of Dying in a Motorcycle Accident

Because of the nature of the vehicle, the chances of dying in motorcycle accidents are significantly increased. Without the protection of an enclosed vehicle, riders can suffer severe or even fatal accidents. Some factors that affect the chances of dying on a motorcycle are: 

  • Speed – NYC roads present unique challenges for motorcyclists. Speeding through high-volume traffic can be a recipe for disaster if you do not leave an adequate stopping distance. 
  • Road conditions – Inclement weather can affect motorcyclists significantly since they travel on two wheels instead of four or more. Slick roads caused by rain or ice can be hazardous for riders as reduced traction makes it more challenging to steer and maneuver a bike. 
  • Rider experience – 43 percent of fatal NYC motorcycle accidents in a recent year involved riders who were not properly licensed to operate the vehicle. 
  • Protective gear – The best chance to avoid a severe head injury or death is to wear a helmet when riding your motorcycle.

Finding Help After Losing a Loved One in a NYC Motorcycle Accident

Finz & Finz, P.C. understands how devastating the loss of a loved one in a motorcycle accident can be. We have the experience you need to assist you in all aspects of a wrongful death case. Only the decedent’s personal representative in New York can pursue a wrongful death claim. Depending on the deceased person’s will, this person could be a family member or friend. If their representative refuses to bring a case, those who could inherit from the decedent can petition the court to appoint a separate representative to file a lawsuit. 

Although the NYC legal system may seem confusing or intimidating, especially when you are struggling to pick up the pieces after an unexpected loss, our personal injury attorneys are here to help answer all your questions throughout the process. 

Contact Our NYC Motorcycle Accident Attorneys to Learn More

Did you sustain serious injuries or lose a loved one in a motorcycle accident? Call Finz & Finz, P.C. today. We have the experience and legal advocacy skills to seek the best possible outcome in your case. You do not have to manage the aftermath of a motorcycle accident alone. We offer free consultations. Call us today to speak to a motorcycle accident lawyer.