More than 5,000 people were killed in motorcycle accidents nationwide in 2015, representing a 10 percent increase in motorcycle fatalities compared to 2014, according to preliminary data provided by state highway safety offices. The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) released these numbers through its sixth annual motorcyclist fatality Spotlight report, just before that time of the year when warm weather brings thousands of motorcyclists to the open roadways. With all of these motorcycles on the road this time of year, it is of no surprise that there is a much better chance of a motorcycle accident occurring within our neighborhoods or highways.
Why Are There Increases In The Amount of Deaths?
Experts who compiled this report say some of the risk factors that contributed to the increase in motorcycle fatalities include alcohol and drug use, increased speed limits, the repeal of state helmet laws and a record number of vehicles on U.S. roads. The report, which looks at current data, trends and developing issues, shows that 5,010 people died in motorcycle accidents in 2015, only the third year in U.S. history and the first time since 2008 in which the fatality number topped 5,000. Compared with 2014, motorcyclist deaths increased in 31 states, dropped in 16 states and remained the same in three states plus the District of Columbia.
Also, older riders appear to endure more severe injuries than younger riders. Brown University researchers have found that due to declines in vision and reaction time, along with the larger-sized bikes that older riders favor, which tend to roll over more often, and the greater chances of broken bones because of the age of the riders, that older riders have a much larger chance of sustaining serious injuries in even the smallest of motorcycle accidents.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
With summer just around the corner, it is important that both motorists and motorcyclists become aware of risks and safety issues involving motorcyclists. Here are a few tips:
- Drivers should be aware and constantly look out for motorcyclists especially at street intersections where a majority of motorcycle collisions occur.
- Drivers should consciously look out for motorcyclists when they make lane changes or when they exit or enter a parking lot or alley.
- Motorcyclists should never ride without a DOT-compliant helmet, even when state law does not require it.
- Motorcyclists and motorists should not operate under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
- All motorists and motorcyclists should obey posted speed limits and not drive at speeds that are unsafe given roadway or weather conditions.
- Motorcyclists would be well advised to wear bright-colored clothing so they can be better seen by other drivers.
- When buying a new motorcycle, opt for a model with antilock brakes, which have been shown to decrease fatal crashes by preventing the wheels from locking during braking and helping with maintaining the vehicle’s stability.
Contact a Rhode Island Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact one of our experienced Rhode Island motorcycle accident lawyers. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost income and pain and suffering, among other losses. No fees are received unless you win your case. For a free (no obligation) case evaluation, call us at 1-800-992-6878. You may also fill out our contact form online.