Know the Risks of Motorcycle Accidents and Insurance

Whether you operate a motorcycle or are thinking about it, knowing a few key facts and stats about these vehicles is important. For many of today’s bike riders, there is good news. Motorcycles have become more advanced and safer to operate. However, they tend to be more valuable than ever. That is why it is so important to choose a comprehensive motorcycle insurance policy that protects you from the financial risks associated with an accident or theft.

Motorcycles are a Higher Risk Vehicle

There is no doubt that motorcycles are riskier to operate than cars. The rider is not boxed into the vehicle. This freedom may feel great on the open road, but it also means accidents result in more injuries with greater severity. In addition to this, bikes are more frequently involved in collisions with other vehicles because they are smaller, harder to see and often operated at a faster speed. All of this increases the risks associated with operating motorcycles.

In 2014, for example, there were 4,586 people that died in the United States as a result of motorcycle crashes. This is lower than the prior year, by 2.3 percent. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tracks and monitors these statistics. In 2014, there were more than 92,000 motorcycle riders hurt in accidents. This is up more than 4.5 percent from the prior year. And, when you consider the high fatality rate of motorcycles, it can be alarming. Motorcycle riders were 26 times more likely to die in an accident than those involved in a car accident and five times more likely to be hurt.

What You Should Know

There is no doubt that motorcycles are more freeing, and they can provide you with a better travel experience. However, there are precautions you should take to help reduce some of the risks you face. For example, having the right amount of motorcycle insurance can help to defray some of the costs associated with accidents and injuries. Taking steps such as wearing a helmet, buying a reliable bike and having an anti-lock braking system in place can all reduce your risks of being involved in these accidents. Of course, being a responsible driver is perhaps the most important step.