Motorcycle riding comes with inherent risks that every Indianapolis rider should understand. While not every motorcyclist will be involved in a crash, statistics show riders face significantly higher injury and fatality rates than other motorists.
Understanding these numbers and the factors that contribute to accidents helps Indiana riders make informed decisions about safety gear, training, and riding habits.
National Motorcycle Accident Statistics
According to NHTSA statistics for motorcycle accidents, the fatality rate for motorcyclists in 2023 was almost 28 times that of occupants in passenger vehicles. Approximately 31 motorcyclists died in crashes for every 100 million vehicle miles compared to one or two passenger car occupants.
Motorcycle crashes resulted in 6,335 fatalities in 2023. Another 82,564 riders were injured in motorcycle accidents. Motorcyclists killed in crashes represented 15% of traffic fatalities for the year.
Indiana Motorcycle Crash Data
According to the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute Crash Fact Book for 2023, there were 2,790 motorcycle-involved collisions. Motorcycle fatalities increased by 14% from 2022 to 2023 (141 motorcyclists died). In addition to the deaths, 2,084 people were injured in motorcycle accidents.
The Indiana BMV reports that Marion County had the highest number of motorcycle collisions in 2024, with 334 crashes. Marion County also had the highest number of motorcycle fatalities, with 20 deaths in 2024.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Indianapolis
Many factors contribute to motorcycle accidents in Indianapolis.
Common causes of motorcycle crashes include:
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Environmental factors, including weather and road conditions
- Unsafe backing or maneuvers
- Following too closely
- Animals or objects on the roadway
- Impaired driving
- Lane splitting, which is illegal in Indiana
- Distracted driving
Inexperience is another factor that can contribute to a motorcycle accident. Riding a motorcycle requires additional skills and knowledge beyond those required to operate other vehicles.
When and Where Motorcycle Accidents Are Most Likely in Indianapolis
Motorcycle accidents in Indianapolis are more likely to occur during warmer months, weekends, and peak traffic hours when more riders are on the road and congestion is heavier. Intersections, highways, and high-traffic urban corridors present increased risks due to frequent lane changes, left-turn collisions, and distracted driving.
Construction zones and uneven pavement, common throughout Indianapolis, can also create dangerous conditions for motorcyclists. Understanding when and where crashes most often happen allows riders to plan routes more carefully and remain extra alert in high-risk areas.
Factors That Reduce Accident Risk for Motorcyclists
Head, neck, and facial injuries are a common risk for motorcyclists. Riders without helmets are three times more likely to sustain traumatic head injuries. Wearing a motorcycle helmet can reduce the risk of death by 37 to 42 percent.
Indiana law requires all riders under 18 years old to wear a motorcycle helmet. Adults 18 and over with a full motorcycle endorsement can choose not to wear a helmet. However, doing so could affect injury claims.
Wearing other protective gear can also reduce the risk of severe injuries. Motorcycle gear includes eye protection, boots, gloves, and protective clothing. Defensive driving techniques can reduce the risk of some accidents.
Individuals can learn these techniques by completing a certified motorcycle safety course. You cannot control what motorists do, but you can learn skills to help you avoid collisions when drivers are careless.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
The moments after a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming and traumatic. Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident can help you remain calm and protect your rights.
Steps to take after a motorcycle accident include:
- Call 911 to report the crash and request emergency responders
- Gather evidence at the accident scene by asking witnesses for their contact information and taking pictures of the scene
- Tell the officer what happened without making assumptions about fault
- Seek prompt medical treatment after the accident – you may have sustained injuries that are not immediately apparent
- Document your losses by keeping detailed records of all expenses
- Report the accident to your insurance provider
- Talk with a lawyer before making a statement or answering questions for the insurance company
You may want to consider legal action against the person who caused the accident. Your time to file a motorcycle accident claim is limited. Seek legal advice as soon as possible to avoid missing the deadline to file a claim.
Contact Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers for a Free Consultation
Understanding motorcycle accident risks helps Indianapolis riders make safer choices on the road. Wilson Kehoe Winingham Injury Lawyers has 124 years of combined experience helping injured motorcyclists in Indiana recover the compensation they deserve.
Call (317) 920-6400 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our Indianapolis motorcycle accident lawyers.