Adam J. Rack | August 5, 2026 | Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles make up a relatively small percentage of vehicles on the road, but riders face a much greater risk of being injured or killed in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles. Because motorcycles provide little protection during a collision, even relatively low-speed accidents can lead to severe injuries.
Many riders wonder what percentage of motorcyclists will be involved in an accident. While there is no statistic that measures the lifetime likelihood of every rider crashing, available data consistently show that motorcyclists face a significantly greater risk of serious injury and fatal accidents than drivers and passengers in cars.
Is There a Percentage of Motorcycle Riders Who Get in Accidents?
There is no reliable statistic showing what percentage of motorcycle riders will be involved in an accident during their lifetime. Every rider’s level of risk depends on many factors, including how often they ride, where they ride, weather conditions, traffic, and their riding experience.
Instead of tracking the percentage of riders who eventually crash, government agencies and traffic safety organizations focus on motorcycle accident statistics, such as how many crashes occur each year, how often those crashes result in injuries or fatalities, and the factors that commonly contribute to motorcycle collisions.
How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents?
Although motorcycles account for only about 3% of all registered vehicles and 0.6% of all vehicle miles traveled in the United States, motorcyclists are involved in a disproportionate number of serious crashes. In 2024, motorcyclists accounted for 16.2% of all traffic fatalities and 3.6% of all traffic injuries nationwide.
That year, 6,228 motorcyclists were killed, and 86,887 were injured in traffic crashes across the United States. Arizona also experienced a significant number of fatal motorcycle accidents, ranking fifth in the nation with 219 motorcycle-related deaths in 2024.
Are Motorcycle Accidents More Dangerous Than Car Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents are generally more dangerous than car accidents because riders have far less protection during a collision. Some of the reasons include:
- Motorcycles do not have seat belts, airbags, or an enclosed frame.
- Riders are more exposed to direct impact during a crash.
- Motorcycles are smaller and less visible to other drivers.
- Road hazards can cause motorcycles to lose control more easily.
- Motorcycles are less stable than passenger vehicles, especially during sudden braking or evasive maneuvers.
Because of these factors, motorcycle accidents are more likely to result in serious or fatal outcomes than collisions involving passenger vehicles.
What Causes Most Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle crashes occur for many different reasons, but many involve the negligence of another driver.
Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Drivers turning left in front of an approaching motorcycle
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Following too closely
- Dangerous road conditions
Many motorcycle collisions happen because drivers simply fail to notice an approaching motorcycle before turning or changing lanes. Because motorcycles are smaller than passenger vehicles, they are often overlooked by inattentive motorists.
How Can a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Help?
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, an experienced attorney can help protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
A motorcycle accident lawyer may assist by:
- Investigating how the accident occurred
- Gathering evidence to support your claim
- Identifying all liable parties
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Calculating the full value of your damages
- Filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement cannot be reached
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize motorcycle accident claims or unfairly blame riders for collisions. Having an attorney advocate on your behalf can help level the playing field and improve your ability to recover fair compensation.
Contact Rack Law Accident Lawyers To Schedule a Free Consultation With a Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, costly medical treatment, and time away from work. If you were injured in a crash, an experienced attorney can evaluate your case, explain your legal options, and help you pursue the compensation available under Arizona law.
Rack Law Accident Lawyers is committed to helping injured motorcyclists pursue the compensation they deserve. Contact our experienced Phoenix motorcycle accident attorneys today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options.
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Rack Law Accident Lawyers
2375 E Camelback Rd #350, Phoenix, AZ 85016
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Rack Law Accident Lawyers
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