While many Americans enjoy riding motorcycles, the statistics quantifying injuries and deaths to motorcyclists are harrowing. When motorcycles crash, the riders lack the protection of being inside an enclosed vehicle, so they are more likely to be injured or killed. Government estimates suggest that per mile traveled in 2014, the number of deaths on motorcycles was over 27 times the number in cars. Despite this, only 19 states require riders to wear helmets. Motorcycle crashes often lead to death or serious, life-altering injuries. If you or someone you know is injured in a motorcycle wreck, it is important to contact the experienced motorcycle accident lawyer Memphis, TN trusts so that your claim is properly presented and, if necessary, taken to court.
If you are a motorcycle rider, take extreme caution and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Nowadays, drivers are more distracted than ever with smartphones. Some drivers even text message or use social media while driving! One careless move by a distracted driver and your life could be changed. Here are some of the statistics about motorcycle crashes from a 2015 study:
- A total of 4,693 motorcyclists died in crashes in 2015.
- 27% of those who died were operating the motorcycle without a valid driver’s license.
- 41% of those deaths occurred in single-vehicle crashes. 59% were in multiple-vehicle crashes.
- 30 % of those deaths were of persons younger than 30.
- 91% of the motorcyclists killed were males.
- 61% of the female motorcyclists who died in crashes in 2015 were passengers, and their deaths represented 95% of the passenger deaths. The vast majority of male motorcyclists who died were drivers.
- 61 % of the drivers who died were wearing a helmet. Helmet use was lower, at 47 %, for passengers killed on motorcycles.
In determining who is at fault, or liable for, a motorcycle crash, the law of negligence will apply. Negligence is the failure to use ordinary or reasonable care. If you have a motorcycle crash case, you and your lawyer will need to gather evidence to prove that the other driver was negligent, or at fault. In some case, it is also possible to recover for your damages, even if you were partially at fault.
Thanks to our friends and contributors at Wiseman Bray PLLC who have significant experience fighting for motorcycle accident victims in Tennessee.