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Arizona Motorcycle Accidents Statistics

By Karnas Law Firm |

In 2012, nearly 43,000 people were injured in motorcycle accidents. An astonishing number of motorcyclists died in 2011 alone, a total of 4,668. Motorcycle safety awareness must be increased to reduce this tragic loss.

Despite these numbers, only 14% of riders wear helmets that meet certification standards, and four out of five motorcycle accidents are due to the rider’s error. Suppose you happen to get into a motorcycle accident in Arizona. In that case, you should first seek medical attention for any injuries and contact a Tucson Car Accident Attorney to file a claim.

Injuries and Fatalities

Motorcyclist fatalities in Arizona have been on a downward trend but remain one of the highest compared to other modes of transportation. In 2012 alone, 157 motorcyclists died on Arizona roads and highways. This number is down from 171 in 2011 and up from 154 in 2010. Motorcycle accidents accounted for 5% of all traffic fatalities that same year.

The injuries of both passengers and drivers are not often life-threatening in motorcycle accidents, while more than 50% of fatalities are the motorcyclist themselves. It is common for a passenger to have only minor injuries or be completely unharmed due to their seatbelt protection. Motorcycle seats do nothing to protect riders or passengers from injuries.

The Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Arizona

The most common cause of motorcycle accidents is the motorcyclist himself speeding, failing to leave a safe distance between other vehicles, and adjusting for weather conditions. Another common reason is drivers who are not paying attention to their surroundings by changing lanes, turning, or pulling out in front of a motorcycle. Motorcycles are also challenging to see, so they are often hit by other drivers who are not looking out for them.

Insurance Claims

Of all the motorcycle accidents in Arizona, there were twelve thousand six hundred and thirteen cases in 2012 where the injured motorcyclist filed a claim. The average amount paid out for this was $18,000 per claim. This does not include the compensation for any lost earnings due to time off work or medical treatment costs that you may receive from your injury lawyer.

When a motorcycle accident results in fatalities, the insurance company for the driver at fault will often try to settle with the deceased’s family. This sum is usually much less than what the family could potentially sue for if they have an experienced personal injury lawyer on their side.

Average Compensation

If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you can expect to receive an average of $5,000 in compensation. This number may be higher or lower depending on the extent of your injuries, whether you were wearing a helmet, and whether or not alcohol was involved.

If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you can expect to receive an average of $150,000 in compensation. This number may be higher or lower depending on the circumstances of the accident and whether or not the deceased was wearing a helmet.

In summary, an average of 43,000 people sustained injuries in motorcycle accidents in 2012. Almost 157 motorcyclists lost their lives in Arizona in the same year. Most recorded cases result from speeding, adjusting weather conditions, and failing to concentrate on surroundings. Twelve thousand six hundred thirteen victims of motorcycle accidents never filed a claim. Motorcyclists injured got a compensation of $5,000 while fatalities settled for an average of $150,000.

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