Everyone knows motorcycles tend to be more dangerous than cars, but how much more dangerous?
In 2020, the NHTSA determined that motorcyclists are 28 times more prone to death and four times more likely to suffer injuries than occupants of passenger cars. The NHTSA reported around 82,528 motorcyclist injuries and 5,579 deaths. 55% of these fatal incidents involved another motor vehicle.
Negligent drivers make matters worse
Most of these multi-vehicle accidents happened simply because another driver did not see the motorcyclist. The driver might fail to spot a motorcyclist when:
- They fail to check blind spots
- They are distracted
- They failed to keep a safe distance from the motorcycle
- They did not anticipate the motorcyclist’s movements
Additionally, poor weather, lighting and road conditions can affect how well drivers can spot others on the road. Smaller vehicles — such as motorcycles and bikes — are most vulnerable in these situations.
Learn to share the road
Motorcycles have the same rights as other vehicles on the road. Larger vehicles can cause more extensive damage in a collision. All motorists should drive with care and share the roadway. These practices include:
- Properly signaling before turning
- Maintaining enough distance from one another
- Sharing the road but not the lane
- Giving motorcyclists space to maneuver
- Always check blind spots
- Minding smaller vehicles when avoiding road obstructions, such as potholes or wet patches on the pavement
Even if motorcycles respond more quickly than large vehicles in emergencies, they suffer more damage in collisions. Making space for others on the road as you drive can save a life.