Motorcycle Accident Statistics and Navigating the Aftermath

In 2022, there were 5,930,496 motor vehicle accidents. These accidents are the second leading cause of death from unintentional injury in the United States. Still, the odds of dying in a car crash are quite low–one in 93, compared to a one in six chance of dying of heart disease.

But those statistics are for all motor vehicle accidents. When it comes to motorcycles, the risks are much higher. That makes it all the more essential to know the laws, your rights, and what to do if you’re in a motorcycle accident. As your expert personal injury lawyers in Tacoma and Olympia, WA, Capital Injury Law can offer guidance and legal representation to help you achieve the best possible outcome after an accident. 

An Overview of Motorcycle Accident Statistics

The odds of dying in a car crash may only be one in 93, but those odds change dramatically depending on what role you play on the role. They become much higher if you are a pedestrian, for example. For motorcyclists, the risk of dying in a fatal crash is 28 times higher than that of other motorists. They are four times more likely to be injured.

Here are a few other key motorcycle accident statistics to know about:

Approximately 36% of motorcycle accidents involve unlicensed drivers

34% of motorcycle fatalities involve speeding, 27% involve alcohol

Helmets are 37% effective at preventing fatalities

Motorcyclist fatalities have increased by 20% in the last decade 

What to Do If You’re in a Motorcycle Accident

With these sobering statistics in mind, motorcyclists should take extra precautions to follow state laws and protect themselves on the road. Any sort of vehicle accident can be a stressful, dangerous situation, so it’s best to know beforehand what to do.

• Get to safety. If you can move your motorcycle, get to the side of the road or a nearby parking lot where you are out of harm’s way. If it isn’t operable, leave it and move to a safe location.
• Check for injuries, but don’t remove your gear. An imperceptible injury to your spine could be worsened by removing your helmet or other protective gear. Check yourself and the other motorists for injuries. For any serious injuries, call 911 right away.
• Call the police. Even if an ambulance isn’t needed, you should call the police so they can file a report.
• Document the scene. Take pictures. Get the contact information of the other driver, passengers, and eyewitnesses. While talking with the other motorists or the police, do not admit fault.
• Call your insurance. It’s best to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. 
• Get medical attention. Even if you seem to have no serious injuries, you should still get checked out soon after the accident. Some injuries may not be noticeable at first. Additionally, medical records are often crucial to any ensuing lawsuits or insurance claims.

Navigating a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit

After navigating the initial accident, the challenge is far from over. You may find yourself in a complicated battle of insurance claims and even a lawsuit after the motorcycle accident. 

If you have significant injuries from the accident and it was largely or completely the other driver’s fault, you may want to file a claim against them for compensation. Ideally, their insurance company will offer a fair settlement to cover your expenses and damages. If they don’t, you may have to take the case to court. 

Recovering Damages

A motorcycle injury might leave you with significant medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and even a permanent disability. It can also cause pain, suffering, and emotional distress. You can seek compensation for all these things if you can prove that they resulted from the accident and that the other driver was at fault.

Determining Who’s at Fault

In some accidents, it’s clear who is at fault. In others, it’s unclear, or the fault is shared. A driver who was intoxicated, distracted, or disobeying traffic laws will more likely be considered at fault. If you and the other driver both had some fault in the accident, you can typically only receive partial compensation.

Understanding Washington Motorcycle Laws

If you were driving carelessly or weren’t abiding by the law, you will have a difficult time claiming compensation, and may even end up paying for the other driver’s damages. That makes it especially crucial to know and follow state motorcycle laws. In Washington, motorcyclists are required to wear a helmet. You must also have a permit or license endorsement to drive a motorcycle. Lane splitting is not legal in Washington.

Why Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

You don’t technically need a lawyer, even if your insurance claim turns into a lawsuit. But it pays to have one. As experienced motorcycle accident lawyers, we know how to gather the right evidence to build a strong case. We can negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement. If your case does go to court, we’ll be there to fight for your rights. Having a lawyer makes the entire process easier, less stressful, and most importantly, more successful.

Schedule a Consultation at Capital Injury Law Today

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident by another driver’s negligence, you have a right to compensation. Capital Injury Law is here to make sure you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.