"The Hurt Report" validated what bikers from across the country already knew: Motorcycle accidents are most often caused by the action of other drivers; not the biker themselves. This study looked at the causes of accidents involving motorcycles and suggested ways to lower the number of serious accidents, injuries and deaths caused by motorcycle crashes each year.
The following facts were gathered from The Hurt Report. They give both motorists and bikers a better idea of just how motorcycle accidents most often occur.
- In two-thirds of multiple vehicle accidents involving a motorcycle the other vehicle violated the motorcycle right-of-way and caused the accident.
- The most frequent accident configuration is the motorcycle proceeding straight then the automobile makes a left turn in front of the oncoming motorcycle.
- Accident involvement for motorcycles is significantly reduced by the use of headlamps (on in daylight) and the wearing of high-visibility yellow, orange or bright red jackets.
- An undue risk of fire during motorcycle accidents is attributed to the fact that fuel systems leaked and spilled in 62% of motorcycle accidents in the post-crash phase.
- 92% of riders involved in accidents were self-taught or learned from family or friends. Motorcycle rider training reduces both accident involvement and injuries in the event of an accident.
- The typical motorcycle accident allows the motorcycle rider less than two seconds to complete all collision avoidance action.
- The likelihood of injury is very high in accidents involving semi-chopper or café racers.
- Half of the injuries received in motorcycle accidents were ankle, foot, lower leg, knee or upper leg/thigh injuries.
- The most deadly injuries to the accident victims were to the chest and head.
The staff and attorneys at Tavss Fletcher hope that the information provided here helps you better understand the most common causes of motorcycle accidents and how these accidents injure bikers. If you have been injured during a motorcycle crash please do not hesitate to contact your Norfolk and Virginia Beach attorney at Tavss Fletcher for your free consultation.