Myths about motorcycle accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Arizona are not always caused by reckless young drivers as many risks come in the form of other drivers or environmental factors.
Certainly it is true that Arizona residents on motorcycles may face more serious risks when involved in accidents than their counterparts in passenger vehicles due to their lack of protection. However, what is not always true is the stereotype that bikers themselves may be the biggest dangers of all for motorcyclists. Riders and their family members alike should be educated about the true risks facing bikers.
What type of risks do other drivers pose to motorcyclists?
While some bikers may at time speed or otherwise drive unsafely, that is far from the reality for most riders. In fact, in its list of the top dangers for motorcyclists, Autos CheatSheet notes that seven of the top 10 risks come from either other drivers or environmental factors.
Environmental risks include inclement weather or gravel on the roads. Both of these things that surprise riders and reduce a rider’s ability to properly maneuver a bike.
When it comes to other drivers, the dangers are numerous. As many bicyclists know, parked cars can become accidents waiting to happen when doors are opened right as a motorcycle passes.
Many crashes occur when drivers in cars, trucks or other vehicles fail to see or look for motorcyclists when turning or changing lanes. Head-on or rear-end accidents are also tragic but all-too-common realities for bikers. Distractions, impairment or other forms of negligence may result in drivers ramming into motorcyclists either from the front or the rear.
Are younger riders more likely to die?
Stereotypes may make people believe that young bikers are extremely reckless and the causes of their own accidents. However, statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows something quite different. Each year, the NHTSA tracks motorcyclist fatalities among different age groups including riders in their 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s and 60 and older.
In 2015, riders in their 40s accounted for the most number of fatalities with a total of 36 lives lost. In 2014, more motorcyclists aged 60 and older were killed than in any other age group. In 2013, there were 34, 33 and 32 fatalities among riders in their 20s, 40s and 50s, respectively. Motorcyclists in their 40s and 50s represented the largest number of fatalities in 2012 and 2011, respectively.
How many motorcyclists die in Arizona?
In 2011, a total of 136 motorcyclist fatalities were recorded. That number grew for the following two years and then saw a drop in 2014. However, 2015 saw the tide turn for the worse as the number of fatalities rose back to 136 again.
What should people do after a motorcycle accident?
Anyone hurt in a motorcycle accident should always reach out to an attorney for help. If a rider is unable to seek help, a family member may wish to get a legal consultation. Arizona residents should make sure they learn about their options for seeking compensation at these times.