The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA, http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov) attributes the leading causes of motorcycle accidents to a myriad of reasons. Alcoholism, speeding, illegal operation of a motorcycle and insufficient motorcycling operational training are the primary causes of most motorcycle accidents.
As recently as 2005, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration found that 27 percent of bikers involved in motorcycle accidents had been drinking and their blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) was well over 0.08 grams per deciliter. The study noted that the percentage of motorcyclists driving under the influence outnumbered other driving groups:
• 1 percent of large trucks (18-wheelers)
• 22 percent passenger vehicles
• 21 percent light trucks drivers
Fact: Almost, six million Americans ride a motorcycle.
Other statistics provided by the NHTSA show that 34 percent of all motorcyclists involved in 2005 were due in part to driving over the speed limit or speeding. Vehicle and truck drivers accounted for only 26 percent and 25 percent, respectively.
Another finding on motorcycle accidents shows that twenty-four percent of the motorcyclists in a fatal crash have been found operating a motorcycle illegally or without a valid license.
