But Roadways Still Present Increased Risks for Bikers
There are over 800,000 motorcycles registered in California. In 2018, there were just over 14,000 motorcycle accidents in the state, down from 16,505 in 2017. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, the number of motorcycle-accident fatalities also dropped during that time, from 578 in 2017 to 488 in 2018, a decline of 15.57%. The trends in California are similar to those nationwide, although the national decrease of motorcycle fatalities in 2017 was only 5.6%.
Despite the lowering fatality rate, California roadways are still pretty dangerous for motorcyclists. Bikers remain 28 times more likely to die in a collision than someone operating or riding in a passenger vehicle (down from 34 times as likely just four years ago). Approximately three of every four motorcycle accidents are collisions between bikes and at least one car.
Safety experts say a number of factors continue to make the motorcycle-accident-fatality rate relatively high:
- Distracted driving—In addition to handheld devices, motorcyclists are susceptible to roadside distractions.
- Aging biker population—Most motorcyclists are now over the age of 40, with the average age of motorcycle-accident-fatality victims being 43.
- Alcohol and drugs—One in every four fatal motorcycle accidents involves at least one driver with blood alcohol content over the legal limit. The legalization of recreational marijuana use also has led to a higher number of bikers driving under the influence.
Contact Our Offices
At the law offices of Weber & Nierenberg, we have provided strong and effective representation to motorcycle accident injury victims for more than 30 years. To set up a free initial consultation, contact us by e-mail or call 1-866-288-6010.
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