How Common are Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle accidents are relatively common in North Carolina. As a state where thousands of crashes occur every year, collisions are a major concern due to the state’s mix of urban and rural roads. High levels of traffic heighten the risk of people on the road getting in a crash. 

This type of incident often results in serious injuries, and in the worst-case scenario, fatalities stem from motorcycle accidents. The lack of protection for motorcyclists—especially compared to those in cars or trucks—is one of the many factors that increase the severity of the injuries. 

For residents of North Carolina, understanding the frequency—as well as the causes and consequences—of motorcycle accidents is important. However, if you were hurt in a motorcycle crash, a Raleigh motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand what to do next. 

Ways to Protect Yourself on the Road as a Motorcyclist

While not all accidents can be prevented, motorcyclists can take steps to reduce their risk of injury. Here are a handful of ways to protect yourself while riding your motorcycle: 

• Wear proper gear: Always wear a DOT-approved helmet, protective clothing, and sturdy footwear.
• Follow all traffic laws: Obey speed limits, use your turn signals, and refrain from weaving between lanes.
• Stay as visible as possible: Make use of reflective gear and keep your headlights on at all times, even during the day.
• Practice defensive riding: Assume that other drivers may not see you, and always be prepared to take evasive action. 
• Complete a motorcycle safety course: Prioritize motorcycle safety 101 by taking courses designed to teach you valuable riding techniques. This information can improve your ability to react to dangerous situations. 

Motorcycle Accident Statistics in the United States and North Carolina

Motorcycle accidents occur frequently throughout the United States. In fact, motorcyclists are one of the more vulnerable groups on the road. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycles accounted for 14% of all traffic fatalities in 2021. 

This disparity highlights the inherent risks that motorcyclists face while riding on open roads. According to North Carolina 2022 traffic crash facts, the Department of Transportation (NCDOT) reported over 3,500 motorcycle accidents in 2022, and more than 200 fatalities resulted from these collisions.  

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help riders and other drivers on the road take preventative measures in circumstances where a collision might be avoidable. These causes include: 

• Failing to yield at intersections or obey traffic signs 
• Being in someone’s blind spot while they are changing lanes 
• Engaging in distracted driving by texting or using your phone
• Speeding, which reduces reaction times and increases the impact
• Drinking or taking drugs before driving or while behind the wheel
• Coming in contact with potholes, uneven pavement, or debris on the road 
• Riding during poor weather conditions, like rain, fog, sleet, or snow

Who is more at Risk for Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle accidents can happen to anyone. That said, certain groups of people are more at risk than others based on various factors. These are some examples of motorcyclists who face higher rates of vulnerability while riding:

• Young riders: Riders under the age of 30 are often involved in accidents due to their lack of experience and their propensity for engaging in risky behaviors.
• Inexperienced motorcyclists: New riders may lack proper training, and they may be unfamiliar with their motorcycles. These details often make them far more likely to be involved in collisions.
• Older individuals: While older motorcyclists are presumed to ride more cautiously than their younger counterparts, they are at greater risk for severe injuries due to reduced physical resilience as a result of their age.
• Sports bike enthusiasts: Riders of high-performance motorcycles are more likely to start speeding in search of the thrill that high speeds can bring. This behavior naturally increases their likelihood of getting into an accident.

How a Raleigh Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help Victims 

If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident, legal representation is an important step if you want to work towards obtaining compensation. Here are some ways a lawyer can help you or someone you know seek justice. 

Investigating the Accident

Your legal counsel can investigate the circumstances surrounding your accident. This involves the process of collecting evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and video footage. After reviewing this information, your lawyer can start building a strong case.

Proving Liability

Establishing fault is part of any motorcycle accident case where compensation is concerned because, without proof of liability, you won’t know where to direct your claim. Your lawyer can work on showing that another party caused the accident, which then resulted in your injuries.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be stressful, especially because they often strive to minimize how much money they owe you. In some cases, they might try to deny your claim altogether. Let your attorney handle all communication with insurers on your behalf. 

Pursuing Legal Action

If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer should be ready and willing to take your case to court. It’s important to hire litigators with experience fighting for the maximum compensation possible. 

Contact a Raleigh Motorcycle Accident Law Firm for Legal Representation 

Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are a common reality on North Carolina roads. However, if you have sustained injuries or lost someone you love in a collision, a Raleigh motorcycle accident attorney can assist you. 

At Whitley Law Firm, we prioritize protecting our clients, empowering our team, and serving our community. After all, we answer the call, and you can trust us to advocate for you throughout every step of the legal process. 

Our lawyers have more than 120 years of combined experience, and with us by your side, you won’t have to face the aftermath of a motorcycle accident by yourself. Call us today to learn more about Whitley Law Firm and how we can help you.