Motorcycles are among the most dangerous vehicles on Missouri roads, with significantly higher fatal accident rates than other vehicles. While there are many contributing factors to fatal motorcycle accidents, the leading cause of death for riders is failing to wear a proper helmet.
Motorcycle Accident Overview
According to data from the National Safety Council (NSC), motorcycles only make up three percent of registered vehicles and 0.7 percent of vehicle miles traveled nationwide. Yet, they accounted for more than 14 percent of traffic fatalities in a recent year. Additionally, the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s data shows that approximately 10 percent of highway fatalities in the state are due to motorcycle accidents.
Unlike other vehicle occupants, motorcycle riders and passengers don’t have the luxury of metal frames, crumple zones, airbags, and seat belts to protect them during a crash. They also frequently suffer multiple impact injuries, including primary impacts with other vehicles and secondary impacts with the pavement.
Helmet Use and Fatal Head Injuries
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that helmets are 37 percent effective at preventing rider fatalities and 41 percent effective at preventing passenger fatalities. This means that for every 100 riders killed in accidents without a helmet, 37 would have survived if they were all wearing helmets.
Among the most severe injuries that can be prevented or diminished by wearing a motorcycle helmet are traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries occur when the brain strikes the inside of the skull, leading to potentially fatal brain bleeding and swelling. Even when a victim survives a TBI, they can be left with permanent physical and cognitive disabilities. Helmets can protect against these injuries by lessening the impact force the head experiences.
Missouri’s Motorcycle Helmet Law
Under Missouri’s motorcycle helmet law, all riders under 26 must wear a helmet while on a motorcycle. Riders 26 and older may forego a helmet if they maintain proof of health or other medical insurance. However, it is recommended that all riders and passengers wear helmets regardless of age due to the seriousness of the head injuries they can sustain.
Other Contributing Factors to Motorcycle Fatalities
In addition to not wearing helmets while riding, other factors that contribute to motorcycle fatalities include:
- Higher rates of speed can drastically increase the chances of a fatal motorcycle accident.
- Rider intoxication contributes to over eight percent of motorcycle fatalities in the state, according to Missouri State Highway Patrol data.
- The failure of other drivers to yield the right-of-way to motorcycle riders can result in serious T-bone accidents.
- Distracted driving and riding contribute to accidents, as taking their eyes off the road gives drivers and riders less time to react to hazards.
- Poor road conditions, such as uneven lanes, slippery surfaces, and large potholes, can cause riders to lose control.
Contact Our Missouri Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If your loved one was killed in a Missouri motorcycle accident, contact Ryan R. Cox & Associates, LLC, to speak with an experienced personal injury and wrongful death lawyer. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and help you take the next steps toward seeking compensation for your loss.