Motorcycle vs. Car Accidents: Why Motorcyclists Face Greater Risks and How the Law Can Help

Motorcycles offer an unmatched sense of freedom on the open road, but that freedom comes at a price. While motorcycles make up a small percentage of total vehicles on the road, they account for a disproportionately high number of serious injuries and fatalities in traffic accidents.

Unlike drivers in passenger vehicles, motorcyclists face significantly higher risks each time they take to the road. The differences between motorcycle and car accidents go beyond just the severity of injuries—they also affect how insurance claims are handled, who’s found liable, and what legal options are available to injured riders.

In this article, we’ll break down why motorcyclists are more vulnerable in collisions, the most common causes of motorcycle vs. car accidents, and how the legal system can help protect riders who’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence.

Why Are Motorcyclists at Greater Risk Than Drivers in Cars?

1. Lack of Physical Protection

Unlike cars, which come equipped with seatbelts, airbags, and a reinforced metal frame, motorcycles leave riders completely exposed. When a collision occurs, motorcyclists are more likely to be thrown from their bikes or directly hit by another vehicle or object.

2. Smaller Size and Visibility Issues

Motorcycles are smaller and lower to the ground than cars, making them harder to see—especially in a driver’s blind spots. Many accidents happen simply because drivers fail to notice a motorcycle before making a turn or changing lanes.

3. Less Stability

Motorcycles operate on two wheels rather than four, reducing stability. Hazards like potholes, gravel, or uneven road surfaces can cause a motorcyclist to lose control more easily than someone in a car.

4. Higher Risk of Catastrophic Injuries

When accidents do happen, the injuries sustained by motorcyclists tend to be far more severe. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (even with a helmet)
• Spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis
• Multiple bone fractures
• Severe road rash and soft tissue damage
• Internal organ damage

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are roughly 29 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles.

Common Causes of Motorcycle vs. Car Accidents

While both car and motorcycle accidents can be caused by a wide range of factors, certain causes are more likely to involve motorcyclists specifically:

1. Left-Turn Accidents

One of the most common scenarios occurs when a car makes a left-hand turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Drivers often misjudge the speed of an approaching motorcycle or fail to see it entirely.

2. Unsafe Lane Changes

Because motorcycles are smaller, they’re more likely to be hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot. When drivers change lanes without properly checking mirrors or signaling, they risk colliding with a motorcyclist.

3. Rear-End Collisions

What might be a minor fender-bender between two cars can be deadly for a motorcyclist. A rear-end impact could easily eject a rider from their bike.

4. Speeding and Aggressive Driving

Both speeding and aggressive behaviors like tailgating and weaving through traffic increase the likelihood of serious accidents involving motorcycles.

5. Distracted or Impaired Driving

Texting while driving, eating behind the wheel, or driving under the influence significantly reduces a driver’s reaction time and awareness, putting motorcyclists in grave danger.

6. Poor Road Conditions

While a pothole might be a minor annoyance to a car, it can cause a motorcycle to crash. Riders are far more susceptible to weather, debris, and poorly maintained roads.

Legal Protections for Motorcyclists

When a motorcycle accident happens due to another driver’s negligence, the injured rider has a right to pursue compensation under personal injury laws. However, motorcycle accident cases often come with unique legal challenges:

Bias Against Motorcyclists

Unfortunately, there is a persistent bias against motorcyclists. Some jurors, insurance adjusters, and even police officers may view riders as inherently “reckless” or “thrill-seeking.” This can affect fault determinations and settlement offers. An experienced attorney will know how to counteract these biases by focusing on the facts and presenting evidence that highlights the other party’s negligence.

Comparative Negligence

In some states, a system called comparative negligence applies. This means that if you are found partially at fault for the accident (for example, if you were speeding or splitting lanes), your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. Some states have a modified comparative negligence rule, where if you’re found more than 50% at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages entirely.

An attorney can work to minimize your level of fault by gathering strong evidence and expert testimony.

Insurance Disputes

Motorcyclists often face tougher battles when negotiating with insurance companies. Insurers may:

• Dispute the extent of your injuries
• Argue that you assumed a higher risk by choosing to ride a motorcycle
• Offer quick, lowball settlements to limit their financial exposure

Legal representation ensures that insurance companies treat you fairly and that you receive compensation reflective of your true losses.

What Compensation Can Motorcyclists Recover After an Accident?

An experienced personal injury attorney can help you pursue various types of compensation, including:

1. Economic Damages

• Medical expenses (hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Future medical care (ongoing treatment, therapy)
• Property damage (repair or replacement of your motorcycle)

2. Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress or PTSD
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Disfigurement or permanent disability

3. Punitive Damages

In cases involving gross negligence (e.g., drunk driving), you may also be eligible for punitive damages, which are intended to punish the at-fault party and deter similar conduct in the future.

How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

1. Investigating the Accident Thoroughly

A skilled attorney will perform a detailed investigation of the accident scene, review police reports, gather witness statements, and work with accident reconstruction experts to build a compelling case.

2. Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Having a legal professional negotiate on your behalf greatly increases the likelihood of receiving a fair settlement. Insurers often take claims more seriously when they know a knowledgeable lawyer is involved.

3. Overcoming Biases

Your attorney will present the facts clearly and persuasively, helping to overcome any negative stereotypes about motorcyclists and demonstrate that you were a responsible and safe rider.

4. Taking Your Case to Trial if Needed

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your lawyer will be prepared to represent you in court and advocate for your best interests before a judge and jury.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or head trauma, may not be immediately apparent.

2. Call the Police and File a Report

Always have an official accident report created. This will serve as an important document for your legal claim.

3. Collect Evidence at the Scene

If you’re physically able, take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your motorcycle and the other vehicle. Also, gather contact information from witnesses.

4. Avoid Admitting Fault

Do not apologize or accept blame at the scene. The determination of fault should be left to legal and insurance professionals.

5. Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Before speaking with any insurance adjusters, consult with an experienced attorney to understand your rights and avoid making statements that could harm your case.

Final Thoughts: Legal Support Can Make All the Difference

Motorcyclists face unique and heightened risks on the road, and when accidents occur, the stakes are often life-changing. The physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to face it alone.

The law offers protections for injured motorcyclists, but securing full and fair compensation often requires skilled legal representation. At 770GoodLaw, we specialize in helping riders navigate the legal complexities of motorcycle accident claims. We fight back against insurance companies and work tirelessly to secure the justice you deserve.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you get back on the road to recovery.

Accident?

Our team of experienced car accident professionals is ready to help you assess your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. Don’t let the negligence of others dictate your future–let us be your advocate in this challenging time. Contact us today at 770Goodlaw.