Michigan Motorcycle Accident Statistics

While the number of motorcycle crashes in Michigan in 2008 increased over the previous year at a rate higher than that of motorcycle registrations, the death rate for motorcycle crashes declined slightly. Still, it was more than 15 times higher than the rate for all vehicle classes combined.

According to a report by the state's Office of Highway Safety Planning (OHSP), in 2007, Michigan motorcycle registrations numbered 255,148. In 2008, the number was 270,569, an increase of 6 percent. The crash numbers rose from 3,821 to 4,082, a 6.8 percent increase. Motorcycle crash deaths rose from 120 to 125, an increase of 4.2 percent.

Death Rate Statistics a Little Better

When motorcycle crash deaths are calculated per 10,000 motorcycles registered, the rate declines from 4.70 in 2007 to 4.61 in 2008, a reduction of 1.9 percent. That motorcycles are still a dangerous way to get around is demonstrated when deaths per 100,000 miles traveled are calculated. The rate for motorcycles declined from 15.68 to 15.4, a reduction of 1.8 percent, but the combined rate for all vehicle types in 2008 was 0.97.

Michigan law requires motorcycle occupants to wear protective helmets. The University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute reports 99 percent compliance with the helmet law. OHSP figures show that those who wore helmets were more likely to survive a crash that those not wearing helmets.

State Offers Safety Courses

Motorcycle safety courses are offered throughout Michigan. In addition to passing a separate written test for motorcyclists, the state requires completion of a safety course or passing a driving skills test to add a motorcycle certification to a Michigan driver license.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

No matter how well you prepare, you may become the victim of a motorcycle crash. Don't count on your insurance company do get you all the financial help you need. Get the help of an experienced personal injury attorney to put you on the road to recovery.

The motorcycle accident attorneys of Proner & Proner have experience helping victims of Michigan motorcycle accidents.