badge
badge
badge
badge
badge
badge

Motorcycle Fatalities on Rise for Ninth Straight Year

The National Safety Counsel reports that traffic fatalities are at the lowest level ever recorded. However, motorcycle deaths are on the rise for the ninth straight year.In 2006, 4,810 motorcyclists were killed nationwide, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This number has increased by 104% in the last decade.

The National Safety Counsel cites the fact that many motorcyclists still do not wear helmets.In fact, only 20 states and the District of Columbia currently require bikers to wear helmets.The NHTSA estimates that in 2005 alone, helmets saved the lives of 1,546 riders.However, only 59% of motorcycle riders wear them on a regular basis, a number down about 13% from four years ago.

The NSC believes that an increase in the number of motorcycle riders has also contributed significantly to the rise in motorcycle fatalities.Since 1995, there has been a 48% increase in motorcycle registrations.Interestingly, motorcycle sales have been driven by an increase in purchase by Baby Boomers.The NHTSA says that the motorcycle industry has seen a tremendous level of sales to adults born between 1946 and 1964.

Ray Ochs, of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, believes that the increased challenges faced by today’s riders have contributed to the increase in accidents and fatalties.Ochs says that today’s traffic is more congested, bikes are more powerful, cell phone usage distracts more drivers, and the ever-present intoxicated motorist creates a risky environment for motorcyclists.

Drunk driving remains a problem for motorcycle riders as well.NHTSA data shows that 41% of the riders who died in 2005 had a blood alcohol content of .08 or greater; which is over the legal limit in Virginia and D.C. A higher percentage of motorcyclists die from drunk riding than any other type of driver.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
Jeremy Flachs led our complex, high value case to a successful financial settlement. We were very satisfied with his representation and could not imagine another attorney doing a better job. Multiple parties were involved, including insurance companies and hard to locate witnesses. Jeremy was on top of the details at all times, worked hard to keep costs down and responded immediately to our communications. He was also sensitive to the painful and personal nature of our case. We can recommend him without reservation. Judith Watson
★★★★★
My family and I have turned to the Law Offices of Jeremy Flachs multiple times over the course of the past two decades. Mr. Flachs and his team have always been super supportive, knowledgeable, and responsive as they've helped us navigate legal hurdles. When I was just 18 years old, I was in an unfortunate car accident. Mr. Flachs, through his guidance and counsel, ensured that I received the high-quality medical care I needed. He personally assisted me through each step of the legal process, and was available to answer my questions. More recently, when my mother was in a car accident, Mr. Flachs relentlessly advocated on her behalf. My family and I have only great things to say about this firm and about Mr. Flachs and his team! Donia Ghorab
★★★★★
My case was complicated and tedious and required the utmost tenacity, intelligence, and resilience, all of which Mr. Flachs possessed with an unwavering commitment to building the strongest case possible. The risks that appeared along the way were offset by Mr. Flachs' determined belief and steadfast approach to leaving no stone unturned. The case eventually settled after a long process, including two failed mediations. With every step, Mr. Flachs dug in his heels deeper and kept fighting. For a personal injury lawsuit, you need a brilliant attorney like Mr. Flachs who is willing to go the distance without reservation. Connie Frigo