If you ride a motorcycle, you are probably tired of hearing about the dangers of your transportation method. In fact, some people doubt that riding a motorcycle is more dangerous than driving a car. Learn about the facts and find out how dangerous riding a motorcycle actually is.
The Risk of Fatality is Greater
One of the reasons motorcycles are more dangerous than cars is the risk of fatality. A car accident can result in a death or multiple deaths. However, a motorcycle accident is more likely to cause a fatality.
In 2016, the federal government stated that per mile traveled, motorcycle deaths were 28 times more likely than car deaths. There are several reasons for this. For one, there’s the lack of protection. A motorcyclist doesn’t have much keeping them from feeling the force of an accident. There is no metal around them to absorb the force.
Secondly, there’s the lack of seat belt. Often, riders are thrown for their motorcycles during accidents. With no seatbelt to keep them in place, the riders can be thrown onto the ground or into other objects.
If a rider doesn’t wear protection, they are even more likely to experience a fatality. Not all states require motorcyclists to wear protection. Without a helmet, a rider is likely to suffer from a traumatic brain injury.
Distracted Driving is Even More Risky
Today, distracted driving is a major issue. If you drive while distracted in a car, you could cause an accident. But it’s even more dangerous to do while driving a motorcycle.
This is because motorcyclists often go unseen by other drivers on the road. Sometimes, a driver can’t see them because of their blind spot. At other times, they stop suddenly or drive erratically. In any case, you need to be wary. You must be alert and react to the other drivers on the road.
Other Factors
There are several differences between cars and motorcycles. Unfortunately, many of those differences are what make motorcycles so dangerous. Motorcycles only have two wheels, which makes them more difficult to balance. If a rider swerves, they are likely to lose balance.
Another difference is the lack of frame. While cars have external frames to protect the passengers, motorcycles are missing an external frame. The riders have little protection in an accident.
There’s also a lack of technology in motorcycles. Researchers are constantly developing new ways to make cars safer. By incorporating new technology, they make it easier to prevent accidents. Features like rearview cameras, lane departure warnings, and more provide car drivers with added safety. But motorcycles lack that advanced technology. Some features, such as brighter headlights, can help. However, there haven’t been nearly as many safety developments in motorcycles as there have been in cars.
The Dangers of Motorcycles
There are risks associated with riding a motorcycle. If you’re in an accident, you could suffer from serious injuries. Common injuries include traumatic brain injury, broken bones, lacerations, and spinal cord injuries.
Whether your injuries are minor or serious, you could suffer. You may be unable to work or enjoy life. After paying for your medical bills, you could find yourself in debt.
With the help of The Law Offices of Jugo & Murphy, you may be able to seek compensation for your accident. Someone else could be held responsible for your accident, and you can hold them financially responsible. Contact us today to learn more.
