Where Do Most Fatal Motorcycle Accidents Happen?

Motorcycle accidents can happen anywhere: on the highway, on side streets, and even in parking lots. But these collisions are more common in certain places, and motorists should be aware of the risks. At Snyder Heitman, LLC, we help injured motorcyclists seek compensation after they are injured in a collision. We typically file claims when a negligent or dangerous driver crashed into our client who was out on their motorcycle. Call our firm to learn more. Below, we look at where most accidents take place and offer commonsense recommendations to protect yourself.

What the Statistics Show About Fatal Accidents

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gathers information on motorcycle accidents across the country. The most recent year for which we have data is 2023. The study showed the following about fatal motorcycle collisions:

• 65% of all motorcycle fatalities happened in urban areas, whereas 35% took place in rural areas.
• 37% of these fatal accidents happened at intersections, with the rest occurring elsewhere.
• Only 8% of fatalities took place on the interstate highways; the remaining 92% did not.
• 30% of fatal accidents happened on principal arterial roads, with 26% taking place on minor arterial roads. Only 11% happened on local roads.

These statistics are somewhat surprising. Intersection accidents are common. Motorcyclists are often struck because a driver could not see them passing through the intersection before making a left-hand turn. Intersections are congested, and some motorcyclists are struck while waiting at a red light because a motorist is distracted or fatigued.

However, intersection accidents also happen somewhat slowly. A rider isn’t struck at high speeds (usually). At lower speeds, riders can survive a crash with broken bones, concussions, and other non-fatal injuries.

Most fatal accidents happen in urban areas because the risk of a collision increases when traffic is congested. The more drivers, the more likely you are to be injured.

NHTSA also gathered information about the time of day when these accidents take place. A surprising 56% of fatal accidents take place during daylight hours. About 40% happen in the dark. Furthermore, nearly 97% of all fatal accidents occur when the weather is clear or cloudy. That means that inclement weather is not the main cause of fatal motorcycle accidents.

Motorcyclists should always remain vigilant, even during the day and in clear weather. Always drive defensively and never assume other drivers are going to yield, even if required by the law. Pay attention to drivers coming up behind you when stopped at a red light. A distracted motorist might refuse to brake, and you’ll need to take defensive action quickly.

Contact Our Law Firm to Discuss Your Accident

Motorcyclists often deal with significant injuries when hit. Snyder Heitman can represent any accident victim who seeks compensation. If a loved one died in a crash, please reach out to our law firm, also. You can discuss all legal options with an experienced Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer. We also serve those in Spartanburg and Upstate South Carolina.

Source:

crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813732