Motorcycle and Car Accident Statistics

A motorcycle alongside a car. Motorcycle vs car crash statistics reveal motorcycles are riskier.
Motorcycle accidents contribute to a disproportionate amount of fatalities on the road.
By Osborne & Francis
October 1, 2024

Motorcycle and car accidents are a significant public safety issue throughout the United States, affecting thousands of lives yearly. 

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While driving is essential for most Americans, it also comes with inherent risks. Understanding the statistics behind motorcycle and car accidents can provide valuable insights into the factors contributing to these incidents.

If you or a loved one are injured in a motorcycle or car accident, the attorneys at Osborne & Francis can help you. We value every client and work diligently to recover maximum compensation for the injuries you suffered because of someone else’s negligence. 

Contact us today at (561) 293-2600 or through our online link to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you pursue justice.

Are There More Motorcycle Accidents Than Car Accidents?

The U.S. has one of the highest numbers of registered vehicles globally, with over 283 million registered vehicles as of 2022. With such a vast number of vehicles and motorcycles on the road, it is no surprise that traffic accidents are a leading cause of injury and death.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were nearly six million motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. in 2022. These accidents resulted in 2.38 million injuries and over 42,500 fatalities. 

The most common accidents involve: 

However, motorcycle vs. car crash statistics reveal that motorcycle accidents prove far more dangerous. For example, out of every 100,000 vehicles, 13 cars are involved in fatal accidents, while the figure for motorcycles is significantly higher at 72 per 100,000.

When considering the question, "are there more motorcycle accidents than car accidents?" it's important to note that while the overall number of motorcycle accidents may be lower, the likelihood of injury or fatality in these incidents is significantly higher. 

Motorcycle vs. Car Accident Statistics

Motorcycle vs. car accident statistics underscore the prevalence of traffic accidents in the U.S., with millions of lives impacted each year. However, motorcyclists face a higher risk of severe injury or death.

National Motorcycle vs. Car Crash Statistics

Motorcycles represent a small percentage of the total vehicles on the road, yet they account for a disproportionately high number of fatalities and severe injuries. The unique vulnerabilities of motorcyclists contribute to the higher risk.

The NHTSA reported that motorcycle accidents in the U.S. resulted in around 6,200 fatalities and over 82,600 injuries.

While motorcycles represent just 3% of all registered vehicles and only 0.7% of total vehicle miles traveled in the U.S., motorcyclists were responsible for 14.6% of all traffic fatalities and 3.5% of injuries in 2022, according to the National Safety Council.

Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than car occupants per vehicle mile traveled. This stark statistic highlights the dangers motorcyclists face on the road and the need for effective legal counsel by a motorcycle accident lawyer or in case of a wrongful death accident.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Did you know? March is consistently the worst month for motorcycle accidents. It’s important to note how seasonal changes might affect your driving.

Click here to learn more about the common causes of motorcycle accidents. Or if you’ve been injured, reach out online or by phone at (561) 293-2600.

Several factors contribute to motorcycle accidents, many of which are preventable. Common causes include:

Promoting motorcycle safety is crucial to avoiding common motorcycle accidents. The importance of helmet use cannot be understated, as it is a critical factor in reducing fatalities and severe injuries. States with mandatory helmet laws typically report lower fatality rates among motorcyclists.

Car Accident Statistics

Car accidents are among the most common types of motor vehicle crashes in the U.S. Despite advances in vehicle safety technology, car accidents remain a significant cause of injury and death.

In 2022, 30% of the nation’s motor vehicle fatalities involved passenger car occupants. 

Common Causes of Car Accidents

Car accidents occur due to various factors, many of which involve negligent driver behavior, such as:

Reasons for the Major Differences Between Motorcycle and Car Accident Statistics 

While motorcycle and car accidents are prevalent in America, the outcomes for those involved can differ significantly due to the nature of these vehicles. The primary differences include the following:

Fatality Rates and Injury Severity

Motorcyclists are more likely to die in a crash compared to car occupants. This discrepancy is primarily due to the lack of protection that motorcycles provide.

Unlike cars with airbags, seat belts, and a protective metal frame, motorcyclists rely solely on protective gear. The lack of protection significantly increases the risk of severe injuries that can result in long-term disability or death.

Visibility Issues

Motorcycles are harder to see than cars, especially in low-light conditions or when merging into traffic. This makes it more likely for other drivers to miss seeing a motorcycle, leading to accidents. 

Motorcyclists are more susceptible to being in the blind spots of larger vehicles, increasing the risk of being struck.

Road Conditions

Motorcycles are more sensitive to road conditions than cars. Factors like potholes, gravel, and wet roads can pose a greater risk to motorcyclists. A motorcycle tire’s smaller contact patch means it has less traction, making it more difficult to control the bike in adverse conditions.

Rider Error

Some motorcyclists behave riskier than car drivers, such as speeding or weaving through traffic. This increases the likelihood of accidents. Inexperienced riders may be more prone to accidents due to a lack of skill and judgment.

Legal Challenges

In many cases, proving liability in a motorcycle accident can be more complex than in a car accident due to road conditions, driver error, and the motorcycle rider’s actions. Motorcycle insurance coverage is often less comprehensive than car insurance, which can impact the financial recovery process for accident victims.

If someone’s negligence caused your motorcycle or car accident, you should speak to one of the experienced personal injury lawyers at Osborne & Francis. 

We have recovered billions in damages for our valued clients. Contact us today online or at (561) 293-2600 to learn how we can help you pursue compensation for your injuries and other losses.

Legal Considerations in Motorcycle and Car Accidents

Motorcycle and car accidents often lead to tricky legal cases, especially when it comes to determining fault and seeking compensation for injuries and damages.

Determining Fault

Determining fault is crucial for insurance claims and potential lawsuits in motorcycle and car accidents. Fault is typically determined based on the circumstances of the accident, including:

  • Police reports: Law enforcement agencies often conduct investigations and provide reports that indicate who may have been at fault.
  • Witness statements: Testimonies from witnesses can provide valuable insights into what happened before, during, and after the accident.
  • Traffic laws: Violations of traffic laws can be strong indicators of fault.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance plays a critical role in compensating victims of motorcycle and car accidents. However, the type and amount of coverage can vary significantly:

  • Liability insurance: Most states require drivers to carry liability insurance, which covers damages to others if the policyholder is at fault.
  • Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage: This coverage protects drivers if they are involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured motorist.
  • Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Some states, like Florida, require PIP, which covers medical expenses regardless of fault.

Filing a Lawsuit

In cases where insurance does not fully cover the damages, you may file a lawsuit against the at-fault party. Key factors in such lawsuits include:

  • Statute of limitations: Each state has a specific time limit for filing a lawsuit after an accident. In Florida, this is two years.
  • Damages: You can seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs.
  • Comparative negligence: Florida and some other states follow a comparative fault rule, where compensation is reduced based on your fault percentage.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

Motorcycle and car accidents affect millions of lives each year. Understanding motorcycle accident vs. car accident statistics, the common causes, and the contributing factors is essential for drivers to reduce the number of accidents and make the roads safer for everyone.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle or car accident, you should seek legal advice to understand your rights and options. 

Our experienced motorcycle and car accident attorneys can guide you through any legal challenges that come your way and fight for the compensation you deserve. Get in touch with Osborne & Francis today online or at (561) 293-2600 to schedule a free consultation with our experienced legal team.

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Contact us if you have specific questions on the matter or if you’d like to schedule a free consultation.

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