When it comes to motor vehicle accidents in California, several factors can determine the severity of the accident, including speed, road conditions, driver behavior and vehicle type. One question often arises is whether cars or motorcycles are more dangerous on the road.
Motorcycle accidents in California
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were 474 fatal motorcycle accidents in the state in 2019, an increase of nearly 9% from the previous year. Additionally, there were almost 14,000 non-fatal motorcycle accidents in California in 2019. This high number of motorcycle accidents in the state can be because of several factors, including heavy traffic, poor road conditions and a high number of riders.
Car accidents vs. motorcycle accidents
While motorcycle accidents can be more deadly than car accidents, they are not necessarily more common. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the rate of fatal car accidents is higher than that of fatal motorcycle accidents. This is because cars have built-in safety features, such as airbags and seat belts, that can protect passengers in an accident. On the other hand, motorcycles lack these safety features and leave riders more exposed to the elements.
Factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents
Several factors contribute to motorcycle accidents, including:
- Speeding: Motorcycles can reach high speeds quickly, which can lead to accidents if riders are not careful.
- Inexperience: Many motorcycle accidents involve inexperienced riders who are not familiar with how to handle their bikes in certain situations.
- Reckless driving: Some motorcycle riders engage in reckless behavior, such as weaving in and out of traffic or popping wheelies, which can lead to accidents.
- Poor visibility: Because motorcycles are smaller than cars, they can be harder to see on the road, especially in low-light conditions.
Ensure the safest conditions possible
Whether driving a car or riding a motorcycle, be aware of your surroundings and practice safe driving behaviors. Always wear a helmet if you are riding a motorcycle, and stay mindful of road conditions and your surroundings.