Because motorcycle accidents can be severe and life-changing, it’s important to know the biggest risks. One of these risks is where motorcycle accidents most commonly occur.

You might be surprised to learn that most motorcycle accidents happen in urban areas. However, the difference isn’t as big as you would expect. According to the NHTSA, about 60 percent of severe motorcycle accidents occur on urban roads, compared with 40 percent on rural roads. There are a few factors that contribute to this, including the increase in traffic and less experienced drivers. 

How Roads Affect Accident Rates

These busier areas are also more likely to have pedestrians, which can make the roads even busier. You might be surprised to learn that although most motorcycle accidents occur in urban areas, they don’t happen as frequently at intersections. Only approximately 35 percent of accidents occur at intersections. This is likely because speed is a big factor that leads to motorcycle accidents.

It is also surprising that most motorcycle accidents don’t occur on the freeway, despite the busier traffic and higher likelihood of speeding. NHTSA reports that about 91 percent of severe motorcycle accidents occur on non-interstate roads but many believe that this could also be due to the fact that fewer motorcycle riders use the freeway. 

How Weather Affects Accident Rates

Most motorcycle accidents also occur in warmer climates. This may be due to the fact that these states offer year-round motorcycle weather. However, this doesn’t mean that colder states don’t have their fair share of motorcycle accidents. They can occur anywhere and at any time. States with a lot of rain may also be prone to an increased risk of motorcycle accidents.

What Are the Most Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents?

NHTSA also found that the most common type of motorcycle accident is a front crash. This includes head-on motorcycle accidents or a motorcycle running into a parked item.

How to Learn More About Motorcycle Accident Statistics

The NHTSA reports annually on motorcycle accident rates. They hope to educate the public on the risks of motorcycling in an attempt to improve safety. Although the occurrence of motorcycle accidents is decreasing, they are still all too common, turning an innocent bike ride into a life-changing accident.

How to Stay Safe on the Road

It’s possible to ride safely by taking certain precautions. You can use these safety tips to decrease your risk when motorcycling:

• Always wear a helmet:  While wearing a helmet doesn’t necessarily decrease your risk of being in an accident, it reduces the severity of your injuries.
• Check the weather: If you live in an area where the weather gets cold, or it rains a lot, it’s always a good idea to check the weather before leaving.
• Educate yourself on the local laws: It’s also a good idea to learn New Jersey’s laws, and to update yourself frequently on any changes.
• Know your legal rights: If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to know your legal rights.

Motorcycle accidents can be expensive. If you were recently injured in a motorcycle accident, it may be beneficial to discuss your case with a lawyer. While focusing on your recovery and receiving the care that you need following an accident is important, keep in mind that you do have a time limit on how long you can file a case. In New Jersey, it’s just two years.

Contact a West New York Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Motorcycle Accident Case in New Jersey

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. Personal injury attorney, Andrew Prince Esq. represents clients injured because of a motorcycle accident in Elizabeth, Clifton, East Orange, Jersey City, and throughout New Jersey. Call (908) 304-9187 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 136 Central Avenue, Clark, New Jersey 07066, as well as an office in West New York, NY.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.