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A new study shows that the first year is generally the most dangerous for motorcycle riders.
Safety studies show that motorcyclists have a significantly higher risk of being involved in an accident during the first year after they receive their license, with the majority of accidents occurring in the first month.
According to the Highway Loss Data Institute, 22 percent of nearly 57,000 motorcycle accident insurance claims filed from 2003 to 2007 occurred in the first 30 days after an insurance policy took effect. The number of claims filed dropped one-third in the second month and decreased by almost two-thirds after six months. Statistically, the research data indicates that the first month is approximately four times as dangerous for new riders as their entire second year. So-called supersport bikes, which are faster accounted for more than half of the insurance claims filed in the first three months.
The Highway Loss Data Institute also analyzed several state-required training programs for riders under the age of 21, including those in California, Florida, Idaho and Oregon. The data indicated that motorcyclists who had completed the mandatory training had a 10 percent higher collision claim rate compared to riders in 28 states without mandatory training requirements. Researchers suggested that programs that allow for fast-track training may actually contribute to an increased accident risk by reducing the amount of riding time that's required prior to licensure.
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle accident fatalities have been declining nationwide over the past several years. This has been largely attributed to the economic recession, which has made the past-time of motorcycle riding simply too expensive for many individuals to pursue. In California, motorcycle accident deaths declined from 506 in 2006 to 352 in 2010. California is one of several states that enforces mandatory motorcycle helmet laws but interestingly, the majority of fatalities involved riders who were wearing helmets. The majority of the deaths occurred among individuals aged 20 to 29.
The Highway Loss Data Institute suggests that inexperience is the number one factor in determining whether a new motorcyclist will be involved in an accident. It can take new riders some time to get comfortable with handling the bike and learning to navigate the rules of the road. This includes knowing how to maneuver when confronted with roadway hazards that may contribute to an accident. Unfortunately, no amount of experience can protect a motorcyclist from a reckless or negligent driver.
When a motorcycle accident occurs as the result of someone else's negligence, the injured rider may be entitled to compensation for their medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. Whether you're novice motorcyclist or an experienced rider, you need to know how to protect your legal rights following an accident. Contacting an experienced Sacramento motorcycle accident attorney is the first step in getting the help you need.
Nadrich & Cohen, LLP specializes in representing Sacramento motorcycle accident victims and their families. For more information on filing a motorcycle accident claim, call 1-800-718-4658 to begin your free initial case evaluation. There is never a fee unless damages are recovered on your behalf.
