Breaking down accident statistics
Posted: Fri Jul 18, 2008 4:53 pm
I read another thread that had a link to a description of the risks of motorcycle riding and it renewed a question I have had for some time. We are always reading the statistics that are published regarding motorcycle accidents and fatalities. The most commonly reported fact in a bike accident is whether the rider was wearing a helmet. Certainly this is important, but I think there are additional facts, that if reported, could help all of us have a clearer understanding of what issues contribute to increased accidents.
For instance;
Was the motorcycle rider new (or recently returned) to riding, and did their inexperience play a part in the accident. (This is sometimes reported)
Had the rider been drinking prior to the accident.
Was the bike involved a high-power sport bike or a more mild-mannered cruiser.
Did the weather conditions play any part in the accident.
What about the road conditions.
What were the traffic conditions.
Was the motorcycle speeding at the time of the accident.
Was the time-of-day a factor in the accident.
I could probably come up with a few more given enough thought, but you get the idea. We seem to be receiving far less information then we could be getting. I would think that much of the info I mentioned can be found on the police accident report, and it would be a real benefit to the riding community if that information was published; much like the NTSB does for aircraft accidents.
Has anyone seen a study that includes detailed information such as this.
JR
For instance;
Was the motorcycle rider new (or recently returned) to riding, and did their inexperience play a part in the accident. (This is sometimes reported)
Had the rider been drinking prior to the accident.
Was the bike involved a high-power sport bike or a more mild-mannered cruiser.
Did the weather conditions play any part in the accident.
What about the road conditions.
What were the traffic conditions.
Was the motorcycle speeding at the time of the accident.
Was the time-of-day a factor in the accident.
I could probably come up with a few more given enough thought, but you get the idea. We seem to be receiving far less information then we could be getting. I would think that much of the info I mentioned can be found on the police accident report, and it would be a real benefit to the riding community if that information was published; much like the NTSB does for aircraft accidents.
Has anyone seen a study that includes detailed information such as this.
JR
