The open road is an unpredictable place. What do traffic reports tell us about the facts on car vs. motorcycle safety? According to the NHTSA, 13 cars out of every 100,000 are involved in a fatal accident, while motorcycles have a fatality rate of 72 per 100,000.
Motorcyclists are also 27 times more likely to be killed in a fatal crash than car passengers, accounting for 14% of all traffic fatalities. These statistics indicate motorcycles are more likely to be in a car crash that causes serious injury or death.
The numbers can be alarming, but if every driver and motorcyclist on the road follows traffic rules and ensures proper safety measures, these numbers can change. So, here are important facts on car Vs. motorcycle safety.
Why Motorcycles are More Dangerous Than Cars
Today’s cars come equipped with various safety features designed to reduce the number of fatalities on the road. From anti-lock brakes, seat belts, extensive airbag systems, collision warning systems, backup cameras, side-view cameras, and electronic stability control to additions like child car seats, there are many features that improve driving safety.
Unfortunately, motorcycles lack most of these safety features. There are no airbags or seat belts to protect riders during a crash or a steel cage to keep riders safe from injuries. Instead, motorcyclists must rely on protective riding gear like helmets and jackets to keep them safe.
Wearing a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet is one of the most important safety measures. We also recommend contacting a motorcycle accident lawyer in case of an accident.
Common Causes of Car Accidents
A car accident can happen at any time and to anyone. There are various causes of accidents, including:
1. Distracted driving – Includes using a phone, texting while driving, and interacting with passengers. 25% of all car accidents are directly related to distracted driving.
2. Driver fatigue – Up to 328,000 accidents on the road are caused by driver fatigue.
3. Speeding – Over-speeding contributes to 30% of all fatal car accidents.
4. Alcohol use – 28% of all car accidents are caused by drunk driving.
5. Aggressive driving – Aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and speeding cause more than 100,000 deaths yearly.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Unlike car accidents, most motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers on the road failing to see motorcycles on the road. The most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
1. Cars making left-hand turns are the leading cause of motorcycle accidents. 42% of motorcycle accidents involve cars turning left into the path of an oncoming motorcyclist.
2. Alcohol use – a drunk motorcycle rider or car driver causes 25% of motorcycle fatalities.
3. Speeding – Almost 50% of all motorcycle accidents involve overspeeding or drunk driving.
4. Collision with a fixed object – Motorcycle riders risk fatal injuries when they collide with fixed objects like trees or poles. This accounts for almost 25% of all fatal motorcycle accidents.
Tips for Reducing the Risk of a Serious Car Accident
Millions of car accidents happen every year. To reduce the risk or even the chances of getting fatal injuries in a car accident, take these steps:
- Don’t drive while distracted
- Always wear seat belts
- Adjust your seat and sit up properly
- Pay attention to the road
- Don’t drink and drive
- Check your speed
- Park your car with care
- Follow traffic rules and drive safely
Tips for Reducing the Risk of a Serious Motorcycle Accident
Unfortunately, both car drivers and motorcyclists can’t avoid every accident. However, for motorcycle riders who are more likely to be involved in accidents, there are various ways to reduce the risk of getting into a fatal accident. Some of these include:
- Check the condition of your motorcycle tires and keep them inflated properly
- Avoid riding your motorcycle in harsh weather
- Never ride in between traffic or tailgate
- Always obey the speed limit
- Avoiding riding your bike when drunk
- Avoid riding your motorcycle when fatigued
- Never ride your motorcycle under the influence of any drugs
- Use extra caution whenever you’re riding through any intersection
- Never ride in a vehicle’s blind spot
- Be aware of other drivers on the road at all times and ride defensively
Wear the Right Protective Gear
Motorcycle riders can reduce the risk of serious injuries in an accident in various ways. These include:
- Wear a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet at all times
- Wear leather or Kevlar jacket and pants when riding your bike to protect against road rash
- Perform regular maintenance and repairs on your motorcycle
- Wear reflective or bright clothing when riding your bike at all times
- Protect yourself using motorcycle riding boots or leather shoes
- Wear eye protection, such as goggles, and make use of your helmet visor
Finally, these important car vs. motorcycle safety facts will help keep you aware. Understanding the causes of car and motorcycle accidents helps to reduce the risk of being in an accident.
Motorcyclists should also wear approved protective gear. We can all make our roads much safer to drive and enjoy our rides. Here’s how parents can instill safe driving habits in a teenager.
