Motorcycle Accident Statistics & Info
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) collects data that explores the risks motorcyclists face on the road. By collecting this, the NHTSA hopes to increase awareness surrounding motorcycle accidents.
2021 NHTSA data reveals:
- 5,932 riders lost their lives
- Motorcycles account for 14% of fatalities despite being only 3.5% of registered vehicles
- Motorcyclists account for 0.6% of total traveled miles but are 6 times more likely to be in an accident
These statistics reveal that, though motorcycles account for an extreme minority of vehicles on the road, they are involved in a disproportionately high amount of motor vehicle accidents. While insurers and awareness campaigns typically hold motorcycle operators responsible for these accidents, four-wheel drivers play a major role in the motorcycle crash rate.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents in New Mexico
Riders in Albuquerque and across New Mexico are at an increased risk of injury in traffic accidents. They are also more prone to being involved in specific types of collisions.
The following are types of motorcycle crashes, and their potential causes:
- Left Turn Accidents—When motorists are yielding to make a left turn, they may fail to notice approaching motorcycles or misjudge the speed at which they are traveling. When a larger vehicle turns in front of a motorcycle, the impact is devastating for the motorcyclist.
- Blind Spots—Motorcycles are small and easily hide in the blind spots of cars. When a driver is not observant, they may attempt a maneuver that places a motorcyclist they do not see at risk of collision.
- Land Splitting—Though lane splitting has not been made legal in New Mexico, some motorcyclists still practice it. Drivers should look for lane-splitting motorcyclists, whether it is legal or not.
- Road Hazards—Cars can drive over road hazards with minimal danger. However, many obstacles are devastating to motorcyclists. These hazards include potholes, gravel, roadkill, water, snow, and ice.
Motorcycle Crashes & Catastrophic Injuries
Given how unprotected the typical motorcycle rider is, average injury severity is high. As a result, motorcycle operators end up suffering long-term injuries more frequently. Medically and legally, long-term or permanent injuries are classified as “catastrophic” because they lower a person’s quality of life, either through loss of mobility or the financial burden of getting adequate care and accommodations.
Catastrophic injuries include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
- Paraplegia or quadriplegia
- Loss of limbs
- Severe friction burns from skidding
Our Albuquerque motorcycle accident lawyers have won more than $15 billion in verdicts and settlements for accident victims. Without an advocate fighting for you, a motorcycle crash could haunt you for the rest of your life. For us, it’s vital to get you the best medical care possible while holding at-fault parties accountable for everything you’ve lost.
Call Our New Mexico Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today
If you have been injured while riding a motorcycle due to the negligence of others, recovery is possible. Contact Arnold & Itkin today to find out how our Albuquerque motorcycle accident lawyers may be able to help you recover lost wages, medical costs, and other damages caused by your accident. When you contact our firm, you are enlisting the help of a legal team that has won billions of dollars for clients. We understand how hard these times are and will seek to provide the service you deserve to make the process simple. .
Call our New Mexico motorcycle accident attorneys today at (888) 493-1629 for a free consultation. A member of our legal team is ready to talk to you 24/7.
