Motorcycle riding embodies a unique blend of freedom and adrenaline, drawing enthusiasts to embrace the thrill of the open road. Beneath this exhilarating allure, however, is the reality that motorcycles are one of the most dangerous modes of transportation, especially when compared with passenger vehicles.
Motorcycles accounted for 14% of all motor vehicle deaths in 2021 despite only making up 3.5% of all registered vehicles in the U.S. That same year, statistics showed that riders were nearly 24 times more likely to die in a collision than passenger car occupants.
While all motorcycles can be dangerous, some models and features can put a rider more at risk than others. Learn which types of motorcycles are the most dangerous and how a Michigan motorcycle injury lawyer from Fieger Law can help protect your right to compensation after a crash.
Are Some Motorcycles More Dangerous Than Others?
Unlike cars, motorcycles lack the protective frame, airbags, and seat belts that shield occupants in the event of a crash. The lack of safety features and exposure to the elements leaves riders more vulnerable to severe injuries, such as road rash, broken bones, or head trauma after a crash.
But which motorcycles are the most dangerous to riders? Here’s a closer look at types of motorcycles and their characteristics, and how they may make you more vulnerable to injury in a collision:
- Sport Bikes: Sport bikes are renowned for their speed and agility. They can reach high speeds in seconds with powerful engines and lightweight frames. However, this also makes them more prone to accidents. Sport bikes allow riders to engage in risky behaviors such as speeding and performing stunts, increasing the likelihood of crashes and injuries.
- Cruiser Motorcycles: Cruiser motorcycles, favored for their relaxed, comfortable riding stances, often come with the drawback of being larger and heavier. This added bulk can impact their agility in confined areas or during urgent maneuvers, potentially increasing the risk as it may become more challenging to dodge obstacles or avoid collisions.
- Touring Motorcycles: Touring motorcycles are designed for long-distance travel and equipped with features for comfort and storage. However, their size and weight can pose challenges, especially for inexperienced riders or those navigating congested urban areas. Maneuvering a touring bike through traffic requires skill and attentiveness, as sudden stops or lane changes can be more difficult.
- Naked Motorcycles: Naked motorcycles, or “streetfighters,” are stripped-down sport bikes with minimal fairing. They offer maneuverability and an aggressive riding position, but their exposed engines and lack of wind protection can make rides more physically demanding. This increases rider vulnerability and can lead to quicker fatigue, impacting the rider’s ability to react quickly in dangerous situations.
- Electric Motorcycles: Electric motorcycles offer a cleaner alternative to traditional gas-powered bikes, with quiet operation and minimal emissions. However, their silent nature can make them more dangerous, as they are less likely to be heard by other motorists, making them also less noticeable to other motorists. Their compact design makes them less visible in traffic overall, increasing the risk of accidents.
If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident through no fault of your own, our attorneys at Fieger Law help protect your rights. We can review the circumstances of your accident and help you file for maximum compensation through your personal injury protection (PIP) insurance or a third-party liability claim.
Liability in Motorcycle Accidents
When a motorcycle accident occurs, the other vehicle’s driver is often at fault. This is true whether you drive a motorcycle with all available safety features or not. 42% of fatal motorcycle collisions occur when another vehicle is turning left or when a rider is overtaking or passing a car. This is usually because the other motorist doesn’t see the motorcycle rider and turns into their lane, colliding with the more vulnerable rider.
At Fieger Law, we can investigate your crash to determine if the at-fault party caused the accident with one of the following negligent behaviors and hold them responsible for your injuries:
- Failing to Check Mirrors and Blind Spots: Accidents frequently occur when drivers fail to adequately check their mirrors and blind spots for motorcycles before executing lane changes or turns.
- Distracted Driving: Distracted driving, such as texting or using a navigation system, shifts focus away from the roadway, increasing the likelihood of collisions with motorcycles, which are less visible.
- Driving Under the Influence: Impairment from alcohol or drugs diminishes a driver’s response time and awareness of motorcycles near them, heightening the chance of collisions.
- Ignoring Traffic Signals: Disregarding red lights or stop signs may result in serious collisions with motorcyclists who have the right of way.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Driving above speed limits or exhibiting aggressive driving behaviors shortens the time drivers have to react if they fail to spot a motorcycle rider immediately, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Following Too Closely: Following motorcycles too closely does not provide drivers enough room to stop if the rider ahead slows down, resulting in rear-end collisions.
- Door Opening in Traffic: Drivers or passengers of street-parked vehicles opening their car doors without checking for oncoming motorcycles can cause riders to crash.
- Manufacturer Liability: If the accident is caused by a defect in the motorcycle, such as brake failure or electrical issues, the manufacturer may potentially be liable.
- Poor Road Conditions: Municipalities or road maintenance agencies can be at fault for accidents caused by issues like potholes, uneven road surfaces, or lack of proper signage, which disproportionately affect motorcycle stability and safety.
Get the Legal Representation You Deserve with Fieger Law
As a motorcycle rider, you are vulnerable to injury if a crash happens on the open road. Due to unfair stereotypes, you may also be blamed for your own accident, even if the other vehicle caused it. Our attorneys at Fieger Law understand these unique challenges and can protect your rights in a compensation claim.
We can gather evidence to prove liability, work with expert witnesses to testify on your behalf, and get you a fair settlement for your injuries and losses. Contact us today for a free consultation and get the recovery award you deserve.