Report: South Carolina Motorcycle Accidents

ABSTRACT
Data reveals a troubling reality: motorcyclists experience more fatalities and injuries than other drivers.

Motorcycle accidents are a serious road issue in South Carolina and the United States.

Although motorcyclists make up a small percentage of overall traffic, they face significantly higher risks due to motorcycles' lack of protection, challenging road conditions, and other drivers' behavior. This disparity highlights the inherent vulnerability of motorcyclists and emphasizes the pressing need for increased safety measures and heightened awareness on the roads.

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Motorcycle Accidents in South Carolina and Nationwide

In 2021, motorcyclists accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities nationwide despite representing only 3.5 percent of registered vehicles.

Reviewing the most up-to-date data, it's clear that motorcycle accidents have been on the rise, both nationally and within South Carolina. A detailed examination of the statistics uncovers the key factors contributing to these accidents, such as the high rate of alcohol-related crashes and the prevalence of speeding.

The data also covers the types of injuries often seen in motorcycle crashes and the legal responsibility of other drivers involved. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, working with the experienced attorneys at the Steinberg Law Firm can help you pursue a personal injury claim and secure the compensation needed to recover.

Motorcycle Accident Injuries: A Growing Concern

Motorcycle accident injuries have been on the rise, and the numbers highlight the severity of these crashes. In 2022, 82,687 motorcyclists were injured in accidents across the United States. While this represents a 3 percent decrease from 2021's 84,898 injuries, the overall injury rate remains alarmingly high.

With nearly 9.6 million registered motorcycles on the road in 2022, the injury rate was 864 injuries per 100,000 registered motorcycles. This number starkly contrasts the injury rates for drivers and passengers of other types of vehicles, emphasizing the heightened risk that motorcyclists face.

South Carolina motorcycle accident statistics

The SCDPS estimates that these collisions have serious costs. The department estimates that medical bills, lost wages, damaged property, and other costs resulted in $5.2 billion in economic losses to South Carolina and its residents in 2021. A TRIP report places the costs even higher, at $32 billion for economic and quality of life losses.

Data in this study comes from the National Safety Council (NSC), the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), TRIP, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Motorcycle riders face higher risks

South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle accidents remain a significant issue in South Carolina, with the most recent data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety highlighting both the frequency and severity of these incidents.

In 2022, there were a total of 2,032 motorcycle collisions, which resulted in 147 fatalities and 367 serious injuries. The number of injury collisions was exceptionally high, with 1,435 collisions resulting in injuries and an additional 1,317 people suffering non-serious injuries. These numbers underscore the danger motorcyclists face on South Carolina roads.

Property damage-only (PDO) collisions accounted for 454 of the total collisions, showing that even when fatalities or serious injuries are avoided, property damage in motorcycle accidents can still be significant. May and June were particularly dangerous, with both months seeing 18 fatal collisions. May also had the highest number of injury collisions at 186, followed closely by April with 162. These months stand out for the number of injuries, fatalities, and property damage incidents, with May reporting 62 PDO collisions and June following with 51.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcycle accident statistics in South Carolina

Looking at the weather and light conditions, most motorcycle collisions in South Carolina occurred during clear or cloudy days. In 2022, there were 1,226 collisions under these conditions, including 71 fatal crashes and 862 injury crashes. This data suggests that even favorable weather conditions don’t mitigate the risks motorcyclists face. A significant portion of these accidents occurred during daylight hours, with the majority of both fatal and injury collisions happening when visibility should be at its best.

Saturdays also proved to be the most dangerous day for motorcyclists, with more collisions happening on weekends. Whether due to increased leisure riding or traffic patterns, weekends pose a greater risk for motorcyclists, and heightened awareness is essential during these times. These statistics point to the ongoing need for road safety initiatives and protective measures for motorcyclists across the state.

Comparing Fatality and Injury Rates for Motorcyclists and Other Vehicles

Motorcyclists continue to face disproportionately high rates of fatalities and injuries compared to other road users.

When looking at the numbers more closely, the fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled for motorcyclists in 2022 was 26.16, compared to 1.20 for passenger car occupants. This means motorcyclists are more than 22 times as likely to be killed in a crash as drivers or passengers of cars. Similarly, the injury rate for motorcyclists per 100 million vehicle miles traveled was 348 in 2022, significantly higher than that of car occupants.

This disparity is due mainly to motorcyclists' physical vulnerabilities. Unlike drivers and passengers in cars, who are protected by seat belts, airbags, and a vehicle's structural integrity, motorcyclists are fully exposed to the impact of a crash. Even low-speed accidents can result in severe injuries for motorcyclists, whereas car occupants might walk away unscathed from similar incidents. These factors contribute to the high fatality and injury rates among motorcyclists, making them one of the most at-risk groups on the road.

The most significant risks motorcyclists face on the road stem from several key factors that increase the likelihood of accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Based on statistics and contributing factors, these risks can be broken down into specific categories.

Categories of motorcycle accident

Lack of Physical Protection

Unlike cars with seat belts, airbags, and the structural protection of a closed vehicle, motorcycles offer no such protection. In the event of a crash, motorcyclists are fully exposed, increasing the chances of severe injuries or death. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) data shows that motorcyclists are more than 22 times as likely to die in a crash per 100 million vehicle miles traveled compared to passenger car occupants.

Excessive Speed

Year after year, speeding is one of the top causes of traffic accidents nationwide. The NHTSA reports that each year, approximately one-third of all traffic fatalities are directly related to speeding. In South Carolina, excessive speed claimed the lives of all 22 people and caused 62 serious injuries and 240 total injuries.

Speeding reduces the driver's ability to see motorcycles and react quickly, increasing the severity of injuries in the event of a crash.

Motorcyclists can also put themselves in danger when they drive at excessive speeds. Younger riders, especially those aged 21 to 24, are more likely to speed, with close to 50 percent of motorcyclist fatalities in this age group involving speeding.

Car accidents and speeding statistics

Distracted and Negligent Drivers

Many motorcycle accidents are caused by the actions of other drivers, especially those who are distracted, fail to yield, and change lanes improperly. Motorcycles can be caught in blind spots or overlooked by drivers who aren't paying full attention. Many motorcycle accidents occur when other drivers fail to notice motorcycles or share the road properly.

Improper driving includes:

  • Careless driving: Lane drifting, inattention, and other signs of carelessness cause 8.8 percent of all fatal crashes involving driver error.
  • Failure to yield right of way: 6.9 percent of fatal crashes involving driver error occur when a driver fails to yield the right of way.
  • Improper lane usage: In 5.7 percent of fatal crashes caused by driver error, the critical event was a driver drifting into or using the wrong traffic lane.

Understanding these risk factors is critical to improving motorcycle safety and reducing accidents, injuries, and fatalities.

Road Hazards

Motorcycles are more susceptible to road hazards such as potholes, debris, slick roads, and uneven pavement. These hazards, which might be minor for a car, can cause a motorcyclist to lose control, leading to serious accidents. In particular, rural and poorly maintained roads pose a greater risk to motorcyclists than urban or interstate roads.

Visibility Issues

Motorcycles are smaller and less visible to other drivers, especially in heavy traffic, intersections, or low-light conditions. This makes motorcyclists more vulnerable to accidents caused by drivers failing to see them. In 2022, 36 percent of motorcycle fatalities occurred at intersections, where other drivers often misjudge the speed or distance of oncoming motorcycles, leading to collisions.

Multi-vehicle crashes often occur when other drivers fail to see or adequately account for motorcycles on the road. Drivers may not always check their blind spots or yield the right of way to motorcyclists. This failure to recognize motorcyclists as legitimate vehicles on the road can lead to catastrophic accidents, especially when larger vehicles like trucks are involved.

Dangers to motorcycle riders

Drunk Driving

The NSC calls drunk and drugged driving “one of the biggest safety issues on US roads.” In 2022, drunk driving claimed 13,524 lives nationwide. While this number represented a slight decrease from 2021, the small decrease comes only after several years of increasing drunk driving fatality numbers.

According to the SCDPS, “driver under the influence” of alcohol or drugs was a critical factor in 247 fatal and 2,092 injury-causing accidents on South Carolina roads in 2022. These drivers’ actions caused 273 deaths, 309 severe injuries, and 2,714 other injuries that year.

When drivers of passenger cars and trucks operate under the influence, they are less likely to be aware of motorcycles on the road.

Motorcyclists are bound to the same laws as car and truck drivers with regard to driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances. Motorcyclists may not ride on South Carolina roads if their blood alcohol content is 0.08 percent or higher. And, bikers can be arrested for impaired driving even with a BAC under .08.

Motorcyclists with alcohol in their systems at the time of a crash were more likely to suffer fatal injuries than victims of other DUI crashes, according to the NHTSA.

Alcohol and traffic accidents in South Carolina

Type of Motorcycle

Different types of motorcycles come with different risk levels. Supersport motorcycles, known for their speed and performance, attract younger riders and are more likely to be involved in speeding-related crashes. In 2019, 52 percent of supersport operator fatalities involved riders aged 30 or younger, with high speeds playing a significant role in many of these accidents. Cruiser and touring bikes, while ridden more by older riders, also carry risks due to the riders' age and, in some cases, lower helmet usage rates.

Wearing helmets and other safety gear, avoiding alcohol while riding, adhering to speed limits, and increasing visibility by using reflective gear and headlights during the day are all essential steps motorcyclists can take to protect themselves. Additionally, improving driver awareness of motorcyclists and ensuring better road maintenance can help reduce the risks that motorcyclists face on the road every day.

The Role of Age and Demographics in Motorcycle Accidents

Age and demographics play a significant role in motorcycle accident statistics.

Over the years, there has been a shift in the age of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes. In the past, younger riders under the age of 30 accounted for the majority of motorcycle fatalities. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) data shows that motorcyclists aged 50 and older now represent a growing share of deaths. In 1975, motorcyclists under 30 made up 80 percent of fatalities, but by 2019, that number had dropped to 28 percent, with older riders representing a larger portion of those killed in crashes.

Despite the risks associated with age, younger riders still account for a significant portion of motorcycle fatalities, particularly those riding high-performance supersport bikes. In 2019, 52 percent of supersport operator fatalities involved riders aged 30 or younger. Supersport bikes are designed for speed and performance, making them more challenging to control in dangerous situations.

Helmet Use: A Lifesaving Difference

Like them or not, evidence suggests that motorcycle helmets do save lives.

One of the most critical factors influencing motorcycle accident survival rates is helmet use. Like them or not, evidence suggests that motorcycle helmets do save lives. Helmets are known to reduce the likelihood of fatal head injuries in crashes significantly, and the data supports this. In 2022, 54 percent of motorcyclists killed in states without universal helmet laws were not wearing helmets, compared to just 11 percent in states with universal helmet laws.

helmet care

South Carolina is a state where personal choice is paramount. While people vary in terms of their beliefs, most South Carolinians believe an individual’s freedom to choose how they live their life is a foundational right.

In South Carolina, helmet laws only apply to riders under 21, which means many adult motorcyclists choose to ride without a helmet.

Aside from preventing fatal injuries, there is also evidence that motorcycle helmets protect against brain injuries. In one CDC study, motorcycle helmets reduced the risk of a serious head injury by 69 percent. Of course, this isn’t to say that riders should be forced to wear a helmet if they don’t want to; only that wearing a helmet can help save lives.

Riding in South Carolina

South Carolina Weather Challenges

South Carolina is an unusually rainy state. On average, South Carolina receives 50 inches of rain annually, making it one of the rainiest states in the country. Some areas of the state get more rain than others. For example, coastal areas can receive 80 inches or more, with some counties receiving over 100 inches.

Wet pavement can be especially risky for motorcyclists since a motorcycle has only two small tires. Additionally, wet pavement, particularly wet pavement covered in debris like leaves, can double or triple a car's required stopping time. When drivers do not adjust for this, they can easily cause a crash with a motorcyclist.

Motorcycle Accident Hotspots

Geography and road design both play a role in motorcycle accidents.

The data shows that 66 percent of motorcycle fatalities in 2022 occurred in urban areas, while 34 percent happened in rural regions. Urban areas tend to have higher traffic volumes, more complex intersections, and more significant distractions, all contributing to more accidents in these areas. However, rural areas can also be dangerous for motorcyclists due to the higher speeds at which vehicles travel and the lack of immediate medical attention in the event of a crash.

Intersections are hazardous for motorcyclists. While 64 percent of motorcycle fatalities in 2022 occurred at locations other than intersections, the remaining 36 percent happened at intersections. Intersections present unique challenges for motorcyclists, as other drivers may fail to see the motorcycle or misjudge its traveling speed. This can result in deadly collisions, mainly when a car turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle.

Non-interstate roads are also a common site for motorcycle accidents. In 2022, 92 percent of motorcycle fatalities occurred on non-interstate roads, compared to just 8 percent on interstate. Non-interstate roads often have more hazards, such as uneven pavement, sharp curves, and more frequent intersections, which increase the risk of accidents. These roads may also be less well-maintained, particularly in rural areas, further contributing to the danger for motorcyclists.

Demographic dangers to motorcycle riders

How to File a Personal Injury or Wrongful Death Claim in South Carolina

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in South Carolina, understanding how to file a personal injury claim is essential for seeking compensation.

  • Seek immediate medical attention.

    Your priority should be your health. Get medical treatment as soon as possible, even if your injuries initially seem minor. Medical documentation will also be necessary to prove the extent of your injuries in a claim.

  • Document the accident.

    If possible, collect evidence from the accident scene. This includes photos of the vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and other relevant factors. Also, gather contact information from witnesses and request a copy of the police report.

  • Determine fault.

    South Carolina follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, you can still recover damages if you are less than 51% at fault.

  • File a claim with the at-fault party's insurance.

    You will typically start by filing a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company. Provide the necessary documentation, including medical records, accident reports, and any other evidence you have gathered.

  • Work with an attorney.

    Personal injury cases can be complicated, especially when insurance companies attempt to undervalue your claim. Working with a personal injury attorney who can negotiate on your behalf and ensure you receive the total compensation you're entitled to is advisable.

Filing a wrongful death claim

If a loved one has passed away in a motorcycle accident, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim. In South Carolina, wrongful death claims are filed by the executor or administrator of the deceased person's estate. The compensation from a wrongful death claim is meant to benefit the surviving family members, such as the spouse, children, or parents of the deceased.

To file a wrongful death claim, you must prove that the death was caused by the negligence or wrongful act of another party, such as a driver or entity responsible for the accident. Compensation in a wrongful death claim can cover funeral expenses, lost wages, loss of companionship, and emotional distress experienced by the surviving family.

Motorcyclist Safety

Addressing Motorcycle Safety: The Need for Change

The data clarifies that motorcycle accidents continue to pose a significant risk to riders, and more must be done to protect motorcyclists. While some progress has been made in reducing fatalities and injuries, the numbers remain unacceptably high. Addressing this issue requires a multi-faceted approach, including improved road maintenance, better driver education, and increased awareness of motorcyclists' risks. Drivers of other vehicles also need to be more aware of motorcyclists on the road and educated on how to share the road safely with motorcycles.

At the same time, improving road conditions and making motorcycle-specific safety improvements to infrastructure can help reduce the risks motorcyclists face. This includes better signage, maintaining road surfaces, and designing intersections with motorcycle safety in mind. Motorcycle safety must be prioritized at both the state and national levels, as motorcyclists continue to be among the most vulnerable groups on the road.

Have You Been Injured in a South Carolina Motorcycle Accident?

If you or a loved one recently suffered injuries in a South Carolina motorcycle accident, reach out to the dedicated Charleston personal injury lawyers at the Steinberg Law Firm for immediate assistance. The Steinberg Law Firm has more than 95 years of experience helping accident victims and their loved ones recover the compensation they need to get their lives back on track.

We have more than 950 5-star reviews on Google and are rated as an A+ Accredited Business with the Better Business Bureau. Our attorneys are also widely recognized as some of the most compassionate and skilled advocates by fellow lawyers, past clients, and even opposing counsel. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation today, give the Steinberg Law Firm a call at 843-720-2800. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.