Chris Hammons | March 27, 2025 | Motorcyle Accidents
They might be the ultimate image of freedom and rebellion, but motorcycles are also one of the most dangerous ways to get around.
In fact, motorcycle accidents have a much higher injury and fatality rate than car crashes. One wrong move, one distracted driver, and cruising down the highway with the wind in your hair can turn into a life-altering tragedy.
Before you hop on that hog, make sure you’re fully informed of the risks. Here are five facts about motorcycle accidents that might have you considering a different hobby.
1. Motorcyclists Are Overall More Likely To Die Than Riders in Passenger Cars
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that, in 2021, “the fatality rate for motorcyclists was almost 24 times the passenger car occupant fatality rate.” In plain English, that means motorcyclists were 24 times more likely to die on the road than anyone traveling in a passenger vehicle, whether driver or passenger.
2. Fatalities Among Motorcyclists Are Disproportionately High
Then there’s the sheer number of fatalities in motorcycle accidents. The NHTSA goes on to say that the number of motorcyclist deaths in 2022 was well over 6,000 nationwide. In fact, they’re responsible for 14% of all traffic deaths — despite representing only 3.5% of all registered vehicles and 0.6% of all vehicle miles traveled in the country.
3. Motorcyclists Are Also More Likely To Have Nonfatal Injuries
While deaths might be the most devastating, motorcycle accidents can have other serious consequences. Injuries are incredibly common. According to 2022 data from the NHTSA, motorcyclists were four times more likely to be injured in car accidents than anyone riding in a passenger car.
And these injuries are often severe. They can range from broken bones to spinal cord injuries to traumatic brain injuries, especially if the motorist isn’t appropriately geared up.
4. Helmets Really Do Save Lives
There’s one silver lining to come out of these numbers: Helmets really do save lives. Wearing a helmet while you ride can be the difference between suffering a traumatic brain injury and walking away from a crash unscathed.
Corroborating this, the National Safety Council (NSC) reports that helmets are 37% effective in preventing motorcycle operators from dying in a crash — your helmet can be the reason you live to see another day.
5. Drunk Riding Leads to Fatal Accidents
Everyone’s heard the warning “Don’t Drink and Drive” hundreds of times, but for good reason: Alcohol impairment really does increase the likelihood of accidents, no matter what type of vehicle you’re operating. In 2022, around 29% of fatally injured riders were under the influence of alcohol at the time.
Staying Safe On The Open Road
You don’t have to be a Hells Angel to enjoy motorcycling. You might think there’s no greater feeling of freedom than the grip on your handlebars and the wind in your hair. But even so, no one should go cruising down the highway without being aware of the risks.
Statistics like these paint a brutal picture. The consequences of motorcycle crashes are devastating much more often than not. As much as your ride might be about freedom and fun, never lose yourself in that while you’re riding your motorcycle. Vigilance, care, and proper protective gear might be what ends up saving your life.
Contact Our Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Laird Hammons Laird Trial Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Even if you’re properly licensed, accidents can happen due to careless drivers, bad road conditions, or faulty equipment. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle crash in Oklahoma, speaking with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help.
For more information, please contact an experienced Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer at Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. Our law office is located in Oklahoma City.
We proudly serve Oklahoma County, OK and its surrounding areas:
Laird Hammons Laird Personal Injury Lawyers – OKC
1332 SW 89th St,
Oklahoma City, OK 73159
(405) 703-4567
Open Monday to Friday
from 8 am to 5 pm
