Types of Motorcycles That are More Likely to Be Involved in Accidents

Many people in North Carolina enjoy riding their motorcycles along the coast or other scenic highways. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are always at a higher risk of being injured in motor vehicle accidents. Motorcycles are more difficult to see, and distracted drivers are likelier to spot motorcyclists in time to prevent a collision. Even when a motorcyclist drives safely and wears safety equipment, they can still become seriously injured in dangerous collisions.

When examining statistics related to motorcycle accidents in the United States, some patterns emerge about the types of motorcycles that are more likely to be involved in serious accidents. Although any motorcycle can be involved in a motorcycle accident, motorcycles with larger engine sizes and those with sportier designs influenced by racing are more likely to be involved in accidents.

At the same time, most motorcycle accidents are directly caused by negligence on the part of the motorcyclist or the other driver involved, not due to specific design flaws. In other words, sportier motorcycles with larger engines are not more dangerous because of those features but because those who operate them may be more inclined to take more risks.

Although there is some correlation between large engines and the likelihood of being involved in an accident, correlation does not always equal causation. The data surrounding fatal motorcycle accidents does not present a crystal-clear picture of the link between large engines and fatal accidents. For example, the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety indicates that 46% of fatal motorcycle accidents involved a motorcycle with a 1,000cc or less engine displacement.

Motorcycle engines with sizes ranging from 1,001cc –to 1,400c were responsible for approximately 14% of motorcycle accidents. At the same time, motorcycles with engines larger than 1400cc surged in fatal accidents. They make up 30% of the total. Despite these statistics, it is not necessarily true that using a motorcycle with an engine size between 1,001cc and 1,400cc is safer.

The Bureau of Transportation Statistics indicates that sales of motorcycles with smaller engines have plummeted since 2012. sales of motorcycle engines above 750cc increased by 54% and continue to rise. As a result, many manufacturers of motorcycles have cut production volumes or even completely discontinued motorcycle models with smaller engines. On the other hand, motorcycle models with bigger engines are introduced yearly. A motorcyclist does not need to have a motorcycle with a large engine to become the victim of an accident.

We do not have enough data and access to registration volumes to determine the most dangerous types of motorcycles accurately. We do know that most motorcycle accidents are caused by driver error. Some of the biggest factors in deciding whether a motorcycle rider will become severely injured include alcohol use, helmet use, speeding, and driver errors. In nearly half of all fatal motorcycle crashes with another vehicle, the other vehicle was turning left across the path of the motorcyclist. Motorcyclists are sometimes injured due to a poorly manufactured part or defective design.

As mentioned above, all motorcycles can be dangerous. Research has shown that writing a motorcycle carries a higher risk of being involved in an accident and suffering injuries. Additionally, motorcyclists are more likely to suffer fatal injuries than drivers and passengers in larger vehicles when involved in an accident. Motorcyclists should be aware that they could be involved in an accident at any time and in nearly any location.

The accident may not be your fault, but it is important to understand your rights if you find yourself injured. Hiring an attorney right away can help you ensure your attorney gathers important evidence proving that the other party was at fault. Being aware of the inherent dangers of writing a motorcycle and learning more about maneuvers to avoid accidents may help you minimize your risk of being injured.

At Arnold & Smith, PLLC, we understand how difficult it can be for motorcyclists to recover the full compensation they deserve after being injured in an accident. When you hire Arnold & Smith, PLLC, you can rest assured that we will fight for you every step of the way. We have the resources to investigate your case and determine which party or parties are at fault. Contact the Charlotte motorcycle accident attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a complimentary case evaluation.