Despite the fact that motorcycles only make up 3 percent of all registered vehicles on the roads, they are involved in a disproportionately high percentage of severe accidents. It is reported that motorcycle accidents have a shocking 80 percent injury or fatality rate, while car accidents have a rate of around 20 percent.
There are several reasons why motorcyclists are more likely to suffer catastrophic injuries in accidents. One major factor is that motorcycles lack the protective body frame and safety features such as seat belts and airbags which are standard-issue for cars.
At Phillips Law Group, we know that both motorcycle and car accidents can leave victims with devastating injuries. If you or a loved one has been injured in an Arizona motor vehicle accident, contact our law firm today. Call us 24/7 to schedule a free case evaluation.
Whether you are driving a car or motorcycle, you have an obligation to drive safely and obey the rules of the road. The majority of motor vehicle accidents are caused by some type of driver error. Drunk driving, speeding, and distracted driving are dangerous regardless of the type of vehicle you are driving.
The following are some common causes of Arizona car accidents:
Accidents involving motorcycles are often caused by:
When motorcyclists are involved in an accident, they lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle. Reports show that the number of fatalities on motorcycles is close to 29 times higher than in cars.
One of the main reasons why motorcycle accidents result in more fatalities and catastrophic injuries is that automobiles are enclosed and equipped with many safety features.
Safety features commonly found in new automobiles include:
Motorcycles, on the other hand, have few of these safety features. While anti-lock braking systems, traction control, rear lift-off protection, and other features are making motorcycles safer, they are not a substitute for the protection of a steel frame that a car provides.
In addition to the lack of safety features, there are other reasons why motorcyclists are more susceptible to accidents. Motorcycles are smaller than cars, vans, and trucks, making them easily hidden in drivers’ blind spots.
The design of motorcycles makes them more unstable than cars. A motorcyclist has to balance the bike on two wheels while riding, turning, and encountering adverse road conditions. This vulnerability makes them more susceptible to tipping over.
Environmental factors also contribute to motorcycle accidents. Rain, gravel, grass clippings, dirt, and other debris can affect motorcyclists’ ability to keep their bikes in an upright position.
Common injuries sustained in Arizona motorcycle accidents include:
While many car accidents also result in injuries, there is a greater chance of car accident victims only sustaining minor injuries.
While alcohol is more likely to be a contributing factor in more motorcycle fatalities than car accident-related deaths, it is a contributing factor in both. The National Safety Council (NSC) reports alcohol being involved in 27 percent of motorcycle deaths and 23 percent of car accident fatalities.
People who have been drinking may not have the ability to perceive hazards, brake when needed, stay in their lane, or judge how close they are to other drivers. Whether you are riding a motorcycle or driving a car, drinking alcohol, and operating a motor vehicle do not mix.
Any type of motor vehicle accident can result in severe injury or death. However, motorcycle accidents are more likely to result in life-changing injuries or death. If you or someone you love has been harmed in a motorcycle accident, our compassionate legal team is here to help.
Our personal injury attorneys may be able to help you file a motorcycle accident claim to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We truly care about the people we represent and will work hard to help you recover maximum compensation for your losses.
We offer all potential clients a free case evaluation today. You are under no pressure or obligation to retain our legal services after the evaluation. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
