A road accident is a terrifying experience no matter what type of vehicle you own or are in, and the consequences of a road crash can be devastating. However, when you compare motorcycle accidents with car accidents, statistics indicate that motorcycle accidents are more devastating because of the increased risk of serious injuries. Regardless of your vehicle type, if the accident was proximately caused due to another driver’s negligence, you have the right to pursue legal compensation.
Motorcycle Accidents vs Car Accidents: What’s The Difference?
Motorcycle accidents are a serious concern. Vehicle manufacturers are constantly developing safety features to reduce road accident-related fatalities. While these technological advancements are slowly reducing the number of accidents, careless human nature must also be held accountable. In Virginia alone, for each vehicle mile traveled, motorcycle riders are 16 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a traffic crash and four times as likely to be injured.
On the whole, there are several differences between motorcycle accidents and car accidents. To name a few: fatality risk, vulnerability on the road, etc. The most significant difference is the survival rate and danger posed to the driver. Generally, motorcyclists are more at risk. Here are some statistics:
- As compared to passenger vehicle occupants, those riding motorcycles are 27 times more likely to be killed in a road accident.
- Motorcycle road accidents have an 80% higher injury or death rate.
- Accidents involving motorcycles point to a 6 times higher death rate than auto accidents.
Most Common Causes
Even though motorcycle accidents and car accidents have different risk factors, the causes of these accidents are typically similar. Drunk driving, distracted driving, and speeding are top causes. Some other causes include:
- Lane splitting
- Bad weather
- Tailgating
- Failure to obey traffic signs
Fatality Rates
Fatality rates are different for motorcycle and car accidents but it’s not surprising to know that the death rate in crashes is higher with motorcycles. According to statistics, the likelihood of death in a motorcycle accident is 30 times higher as compared to a car accident. Motorcyclists have a 6x higher fatality rate.
Consequences
No matter the type of vehicle, a crash on the road can be devastating. Motorcyclists are of course at a higher risk and their injuries could be more severe or fatal. Common injuries include:
- Lacerations
- Burns
- Loss of limbs
- Head trauma
- Broken bones
Car drivers are at less risk but they could also suffer serious injuries in certain cases. The most common injuries a car driver may have to bear include:
- Whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Seat belt injuries
- Internal bleeding
What to Do After a Motorcycle or Car Accident
No matter whether you are involved in a motorcycle accident or a car accident, you should take certain protective actions to ensure a better outcome should you need to file a claim against the driver at fault:
- Call for assistance
- If you cannot make a phone call for some reason, ask a witness or passerby to do so
- Seek medical attention
- Take photos of your motorcycle/vehicle, the vehicle of the other driver, and the surrounding area of the accident
- Collect contact details of witnesses
- Don’t argue with the other motorist
- Don’t sign any document before talking to a car accident lawyer
Hilton & Somer, LLC: Virginia, Maryland and Washington, DC Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyer
Road accidents are unfortunately very common and there is always a risk of one occurring no matter how careful you are. If the accident was caused due to another driver’s negligence, you can pursue legal compensation. With a diligent and experienced attorney on your side, you can improve your chances of achieving success.
Auto accident attorneys at Hilton & Somer, LLC have the legal skills, knowledge, and resources to help you seek compensation after a road accident involving reckless or negligent behavior. Call us at (703) 560-0700 for a free initial consultation.
References
https://www.autoinsurance.org/motorcycle-vs-car-accidents/
https://www.jdpower.com/motorcycles/shopping-guides/motorcycle-vs-car-accident-statistics
