Motorcycle accidents are particularly devastating, as motorcycles don't have the fortitude of a car's exterior to protect the driver and any passengers in the case of a collision. If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident, you deserve compensation for your damages. Learn more about the statistics about motorcycle accidents so that you can fully appreciate the situation before you contact your personal injury attorney. 

High Fatality Rate

There were 5,579 motorcycle fatalities in 2020, significantly up from previous years in part due to increased driver distraction due to smartphones. With so many motorcycle fatalities, you should feel lucky if you walked out of a motorcycle accident alive. Although you have the luxury of life, you probably experienced extensive physical damage. Whether the damage to you was mild or severe, you should always get checked by a reputable doctor to have a professional record of your injuries. 

Causes of Motorcycle Fatalities

When drivers follow the rules of the road, there's a high chance that motorcyclists will make it from Point A to Point B safely. When drivers blatantly disregard the rules of the road, the chances of an accident increase significantly. 

Speeding is a factor in 34% of motorcycle fatalities, and impaired driving is a factor in 27% of motorcycle fatalities. These numbers reflect the behavior of both the motorcyclist and the drivers of other vehicles involved in the accident.

Proper training and wearing a helmet can also play a large part in motorcyclist safety. 36% of motorcycle fatalities involve a driver without a valid motorcycle license. Additionally, 2,143 fatalities involved drivers not wearing a proper motorcycle helmet (whether required by law or not). 

Motorcycle Accident Payouts

The payout for a motorcycle accident varies greatly based on the severity of the incident and the strength of the case against the defendant. If you can prove that the defendant was at fault, you can sue the defendant for damage to the motorcycle, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and a number of other damages. If you disagree about fault, you may need to take the case to trial, which will cost more. Depending on the likelihood of winning the case, you'll need to take the case to trial or settle.

The defendant likely has insurance to cover your damages. If your damages exceed the amount covered by their insurance, you'll need to sue the defendant in civil court to get the remainder that you're owed. 

Contact a local law firm to learn more about motorcycle accidents.