How Many Motorcycle Deaths Per Year in the US?
There is a lot of debate as to how many motorcycle deaths occur each year in the United States. The sad fact is that the number of fatalities continues to rise and with no real solutions in sight, it is imperative that we begin to recognize the problem and start to take steps to reduce fatalities.
Unfortunately, in most cases, the number one cause of motorcycle fatalities is not due to an accident at all but rather an act of negligence or reckless behavior on the part of the driver. The statistics show that drivers in the United States are involved in more than three times as many accidents as those who drive other vehicles and that nearly three out of every four drivers in the U.S. have been involved in some type of motor accident in their lifetime.
Motorcycle fatalities are not caused by any type of mechanical malfunction; in fact, there has never been a single reported motorcycle accident where the cause of the accident was due to any type of mechanical failure. Motorcycle fatalities are caused primarily by drivers and riders who disregard other traffic signals, fail to yield to pedestrians, drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or fail to pay attention to what the weather is doing.
These statistics demonstrate a definite number: a number that is significantly higher than the number of cars involved in car accidents. This number is particularly alarming when you consider that there are over 20 million vehicles on the road in the United States. When you add up the number of deaths per year, you realize just how many people die every year from the consequences of not wearing their safety belts or using proper motorcycle equipment. Of course, the biggest contributor to these statistics is the lack of education that American motorists have regarding proper riding practices.
One of the biggest causes of death on motorcycles is a lack of proper safety gear. As we all know, helmets are a must and a safety belt can help protect your head from injury if you are riding in an accident. You should also invest in quality protective motorcycle gloves and a jacket that will provide protection for your body from cold and heat. If possible, invest in a full set of safety gears such as a vest and leather motorcycle boots.
If you can’t afford the proper helmet and gloves, there are other alternatives available to provide maximum protection. A motorcycle helmet should be the first choice and there are many online retailers that sell a helmet made specifically for motorcycle riding that will keep your head protected in even the most adverse weather conditions.
If you choose not to wear a helmet, you will need to invest in the appropriate safety apparel. and motorcycle gear as well. You can purchase motorcycle gloves that are designed to protect your hands and wrists, elbow, shoulder, wrist and leg, so that you can ride confidently.
If you choose to go without the proper motorcycle gear, you may be surprised at the impact that this can have on your safety. Proper motorcycle clothing will prevent your skin from getting soaked in the rain, prevent scratches and cuts, and offer additional protection against flying dirt and debris.
Even if you can’t afford the proper motorcycle apparel, investing in a good pair of pants and long-sleeved shirt will make you more comfortable on your ride. These two items are very important as they will help keep you warm and dry while also preventing chaffing on your skin.
Of course, the most important of all to properly clothing yourself for riding is wearing a motorcycle helmet and wearing the proper safety clothing. If you can’t afford to buy the proper apparel, it’s important that you find a local retailer that sells protective motorcycle gear and learn to use it.
The statistics on how many motorcycle deaths per year in the US are certainly alarming and we owe it to ourselves and future generations to take the proper precautions to ensure that we don’t see this kind of increase in years to come. Don’t take any chances with your life and take every precaution possible to keep your head protected and your legs safe. If you aren’t comfortable with using protective gear, consider renting the proper gear and doing so in a shop where you are trained in its proper use.