Why Motorcycles Are Significantly More Dangerous Than Cars

By Grant Law Office on October 15, 2023

Motorcycles have always held a special place in the hearts of many of us, delivering an exhilarating sense of freedom and adventure on the open road. However, it’s essential to recognize that this treasured mode of transportation comes with its own risks and consequences that every rider should be aware of.

Factors Contributing to Motorcycle Danger

Motorcycles are an exciting mode of transportation, but they come with inherent risks due to their design and lack of protective features:

• Minimal protection: Unlike cars with their enclosed cabins, motorcycles leave riders exposed. There are no seatbelts or airbags to cushion the impact, making riders far more vulnerable in the event of a collision.
• Exposure to the elements: Motorcycle riders are directly exposed to the elements, which can be perilous in adverse weather conditions, negatively impacting a rider’s visibility and overall control of the motorcycle, increasing the risk of accidents.
• Balance and stability challenges: Balancing and maintaining stability on a motorcycle can be challenging, as the two-wheel design requires precise control, where even minor errors in balance can lead to accidents.
• Reduced visibility: Motorcycles are considerably smaller than cars, making them less visible to other drivers on the road. Other drivers may have difficulty noticing motorcycles, increasing the risk of collisions, especially at intersections or during lane changes.
• Limited crash protection: In an accident, motorcycle riders often directly impact the ground or other vehicles, leading to more severe injuries.
• Inherent instability: Motorcycles inherently possess less stability than four-wheeled vehicles. Sudden stops, swerves, or uneven road surfaces can result in loss of control and accidents.
• Riding conditions: Conditions such as wet or icy roads, poor road maintenance, and uneven road surfaces can pose additional dangers to motorcyclists.

It’s essential for both motorcycle riders and other road users to be aware of these factors and exercise caution to enhance road safety.

Statistics and Comparative Risk

Statistics on motorcycle accidents and fatalities paint a sobering picture of the risks involved. The contrast between the two modes of transportation becomes clear when comparing accident rates and severity in both motorcycles and cars:

• According to the National Transportation Safety Board, in 2020, there were 5,579 motorcycle riders and passengers who tragically lost their lives in traffic accidents in the United States. This number increased from 5,044 in 2019.
• For every mile traveled, motorcycle riders faced 28 times higher chances of dying in an accident compared to people in cars.
• According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration data, 55 percent of motorcycle accidents—38 percent of which resulted in fatalities—occurred in single-vehicle collisions.

Legal Implications in Motorcycle Accident Cases

Motorcycle accident claims come with unique challenges and complexities. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, understanding these intricacies is vital to exercising one’s legal rights. Some of the significant legal aspects of motorcycle accident cases involve the following:

• Collecting evidence, including photographs and witness statements.
• Biased perceptions against motorcyclists in some accident cases.
• Insurance issues, such as dealing with underinsured or uninsured motorists.
• Determining liability and fault in multi-vehicle accidents.

Promoting Motorcycle Safety and Awareness

Considering the risks associated with motorcycle riding, it is crucial for riders to prioritize safety measures. Here are practical steps to enhance safety and awareness:

• Protective gear: Wear a Department of Transportation(“DOT”) approved helmet, gloves, sturdy boots, and protective clothing to reduce head injuries and abrasions in case of a fall.
• Regular maintenance: Conduct routine motorcycle checks, including brakes, tires, lights, and signals, to ensure a safe ride. Address issues promptly for reliability.
• Rider training: Take motorcycle safety courses for all levels and practice defensive riding, emergency maneuvers, and skills for adverse conditions.
• Defensive riding: Staying alert, predicting other drivers’ actions, and maintaining a safe distance. Use headlights and reflective gear in low-light or adverse conditions.

Exercise Your Rights After an Atlanta Motorcycle Accident

If you are a motorcycle rider injured by a negligent driver, you don’t have to face the legal complexities alone. In motorcycle safety and legal claims, the outcome is often a direct reflection of the skills of your Georgia lawyer. That’s why you need a trusted Atlanta motorcycle accident attorney in your corner.

At Grant Law Office, we deliver exceptional legal counsel to support you on the road to justice. Our experienced Atlanta attorneys, Wayne and Kimberly Grant, will be by your side to protect your rights at every turn.

Call us at (404) 995-3955 today for a free consultation, and let us help steer your case toward a fair resolution.