John W. Redmann | November 11, 2026 | Motorcycle Accident
There is no reliable percentage that tells us how many motorcycle riders will eventually be involved in an accident. Crash statistics generally track crashes, injuries, fatalities, registered motorcycles, and miles traveled rather than following individual riders throughout their lives.
The risk also varies based on how often someone rides, traffic conditions, experience, weather, and other factors. Available data can show the frequency and severity of motorcycle accidents, but it cannot establish a single percentage of riders who will eventually be involved in a crash.
How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,228 motorcyclists were killed in traffic crashes in 2024, accounting for 16 percent of all traffic fatalities.
Motorcyclists also face a much greater risk of death than passenger car occupants. In 2024, NHTSA reported that motorcyclists were almost 27 times more likely to die and almost five times more likely to be injured per vehicle mile traveled than passenger car occupants.
A rider’s individual risk can depend on several factors, including:
- Speed
- Traffic conditions
- Rider experience
- Weather and road conditions
- Alcohol or drug impairment
- Distracted driving
- The actions of other drivers
- How often and how far they ride
These factors make it difficult to calculate a single accident percentage that applies to every rider. National statistics show the overall risks of riding, but they cannot predict whether a particular rider will be involved in a crash.
How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents in Louisiana?
Motorcycle accidents are also a serious safety concern in Louisiana. According to 2025 data published by the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, 96 people died in motorcycle crashes, and motorcyclists were involved in 1,155 injury crashes on Louisiana roads.
Louisiana identifies motorcyclists as vulnerable road users because they have less physical protection than occupants of passenger vehicles.
These numbers do not establish the percentage of Louisiana riders who will eventually be involved in an accident. They do show that motorcycle crashes continue to result in serious injuries and fatalities across the state each year.
Why Are Motorcycle Riders More Vulnerable in an Accident?
Motorcycles are smaller than most passenger vehicles and can be more difficult for drivers to notice. Drivers may overlook a motorcycle while turning, changing lanes, or entering traffic.
Motorcyclists also lack many of the protections available to people inside cars and trucks. Without an enclosed vehicle structure, riders are more exposed to direct impacts with other vehicles, the pavement, and roadside objects.
Common causes and contributing factors in motorcycle accidents can include:
- Drivers turning in front of motorcycles
- Unsafe lane changes
- Following too closely
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Impaired driving
- Failure to yield
- Dangerous road conditions
A motorcycle accident can result in broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal injuries, road rash, and other serious injuries. Even a collision that causes relatively minor damage to a passenger vehicle can cause severe or fatal injuries to a motorcyclist.
Can You Recover Compensation After a Louisiana Motorcycle Accident?
You may be able to seek compensation if another person’s negligence caused your motorcycle accident. The amount available will depend on your injuries, financial losses, insurance coverage, and other circumstances of the crash.
A motorcycle accident claim may include compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Lost income
- Reduced earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Lost quality of life
- Property damage
- Other accident-related losses
A lawyer can investigate the crash, gather evidence, identify responsible parties, and deal with insurance companies on your behalf. Motorcycle accident statistics can help illustrate the risks riders face, but the value of an individual claim depends on the specific facts of the accident and the resulting injuries and losses.
Louisiana also follows a modified comparative fault system for accidents occurring on or after January 1, 2026. Under this rule, an injured person generally cannot recover damages if they are 51% or more at fault. If their share of fault is less than 51%, their compensation is reduced proportionally.
Contact the Law Office of John W. Redmann, L.L.C. for a Free Consultation With a Metairie Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents can cause serious injuries and significant financial losses. If another driver or party caused your crash, you may have the right to pursue compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and other losses.
The Law Office of John W. Redmann, L.L.C. can review the circumstances of your accident, explain your legal options, and help you pursue a claim against the responsible party. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Metairie motorcycle accident lawyer.
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