April 1, 2024 | Car Accidents
Are you a motorcyclist in Oklahoma? If so, it is imperative that you understand that your risk is higher than other motorists. The data is clear: Riding a motorcycle is far more risky than driving a full-sized passenger vehicle. Motorcyclists are vulnerable. Our Oklahoma motorcycle injury lawyer explains why riding a motorcycle is so much more dangerous than driving a car.
Most Motorcycle Crashes Result in Injury, Majority of Car Crashes Do Not
Motorcyclists face inherent safety risks. According to comprehensive data published by theNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 82,686 motorcyclists were injured and 5,932 were killed in collisions in 2021 alone. The NHTSA finds that an estimated 80% of motorcycle crashes resulted in injuries to the rider. For reference, that is far higher than the proportion for drivers.
In Oklahoma, only around 25% of car accidents result in driver or passenger injuries. Not only are motorcyclists more likely to be hurt overall, they are dramatically more likely to be seriously injured or killed in a crash. Some studies have found that motorcyclists are around 25 times more likely to suffer a catastrophic injury or fatality in a crash than drivers.
Why a Motorcycle is More Dangerous Than a Car
Why is riding a motorcycle so much more dangerous than driving a car? While you can probably guess some of the reasons, there are actually a number of different factors that affect the safety risk associated with riding a motorcycle. Here are four key reasons why riding a motorcycle is more dangerous than driving a car in Oklahoma:
- Motorcyclists Lack of Protective Shell: Unlike cars, motorcycles lack a surrounding protective shell. This is the primary reason why riders are at an increased risk of injury in an accident. Cars are equipped with crumple zones, airbags, seat belts, and other key safety features that are designed to protect occupants during a crash. On the other hand, motorcyclists rely primarily on helmets and protective clothing for safety.
- Motorcycles are Inherently Less Stable: Motorcycles are inherently less stable than four-wheeled vehicles because they rely on only two wheels for balance. The two-point contact with the road makes them more susceptible to variations in road conditions—such as wet or uneven surface. Beyond that, the need for constant balance requires greater physical and mental effort from the rider.
- Riders are More Directly Exposed to the Elements: Motorcyclists are directly exposed to the elements, including wind, rain, and temperature extremes. These elements significantly impact their comfort and, more importantly, their safety. Adverse weather conditions not only make riding more physically challenging but also reduce visibility and the motorcycle’s grip on the road.
- Many Motorists Fail to Notice Motorcycles: Most multi-vehicle crashes involving motorcyclists are not blamed on the rider. Indeed, a major risk for motorcyclists comes from other road users. Far too many motorists fail to notice motorcycles. As a consequence, motorcycles are more prone to being cut off, hit, or overlooked entirely. It is a big issue, especially at intersections or when cars are changing lanes. Negligent drivers who struck motorcyclists should be held accountable for a crash.
Injured Motorcyclists Need Medical Care and Maximum Financial Support
Hurt in a motorcycle crash in Oklahoma? You need immediate medical attention. All motorcycle crash injuries should be assessed, diagnosed, and treated by a licensed physician. See a doctor as soon as possible after a bad accident. From there, an experienced Oklahoma motorcycle accident attorney can help you seek full and fair financial compensation for your damages. Through a motorcycle crash injury claim, you may be entitled to recover for:
- Property losses, including motorcycle repairs;
- Ambulance transport and emergency room care;
- Hospital bills and other health care costs;
- Rehabilitation medical support;
- Loss of wages and loss of future income;
- Pain and suffering and mental distress;
- Disability or disfigurement;
- Loss of quality of life; and
- Wrongful death.
Set Up a Free Case Review With a Top-Tier Oklahoma City Motorcycle Crash Lawyer
At McGuire Law Firm, our Oklahoma motorcycle accident attorneys are standing by, ready to protect your rights. If you or your loved one was hurt in a bad motorcycle crash, we can help. Injured riders need full and fair financial compensation for their injuries, including non-economic losses. Give us a call now or contact us online for your free, no-strings-attached consultation. We handle motorcycle accident claims throughout Oklahoma, including in Edmond, Lawton, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City.