Despite efforts to ensure Tennessee motorcyclists are properly licensed, the rate of motorcycle accidents that cause injury or death has risen steadily in recent years, according to the Tennessee Department of Safety.
In its 2009 “Tennessee Motorcycle Crash Statistics” report, the Tennessee Department of Safety noted that between 2004 and 2008, the number of motorcycle crashes within the state had increased by 42 percent, from 2,293 crashes suffered in 2004 to 3,257 crashes in 2008. The average number of crashes that caused injury or death to the motorcyclist also increased from 95 deaths and 1,749 injuries in 2004 to 143 deaths and 2,530 injuries in 2008. Since 1999, the number of deadly motorcycle crashes has increased by 145 percent, and the average number of motorcycle accident deaths in Tennessee each year has increased by 10 percent.
One trend that may be adding to the number of fatal crashes is the increase in riders who were not wearing a helmet or not wearing the right type of helmet for motorcycle riding when the crash occurred. After a decrease in helmetless riders in the early 2000s, the number of deadly crashes involving a motorcyclist wearing no helmet or the wrong kind of helmet increased each year from 2005 to 2008. Since the U.S. Department of Transportation’s research indicates that wearing a helmet can decrease one’s risk of dying in a motorcycle crash by 37 percent or more, the lack of proper helmets may explain, in part, the increase in deaths. However, researchers warn that no one factor should be blamed for the overall rise in crashes, injuries, and fatalities.
Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries, and those who share the road with bikers aren’t always careful to watch for them. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a motorcycle crash, the experienced Chattanooga motorcycle accident lawyers at Massey & Associates can help. To discuss your case with us, call our office today at (423) 697-4529 for a free consultation.
