Missouri Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Here’s a summary of Missouri motorcycle accident statistics by year over the last five years (2019-2023). This includes the total number of motorcycle accidents, total fatal accidents, and the number of accidents related to DUIs.

Note: The numbers provided are based on data reported by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. However, it’s important to consider that there may be some level of under-reporting or discrepancies, particularly in the statistics of DUI-related accidents. This under-reporting can occur due to challenges in confirming alcohol involvement at the time of the accident.

The data shows a gradual increase in total motorcycle accidents in the past five years, with fatal accidents and DUI-related accidents also suggesting an upward trend. This summary is based on data from the Missouri State Highway Patrol and represents incidents where motorcycles were directly involved. It’s important to note that DUI-related accidents might be under-reported due to the complexities in confirming alcohol involvement at the scene​ (Missouri State Highway Patrol)​.

For more detailed statistics and additional insights, you can visit the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s crash data page.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Missouri

One of the primary causes of motorcycle accidents, particularly those involving multiple vehicles, is cars making left turns. This type of accident commonly occurs when a car turns left at an intersection or into a driveway, crossing the path of an oncoming motorcycle that has the right-of-way. Motorcyclists may also be hit when trying to overtake a vehicle that decides to make a left turn without noticing them. This scenario is frequently attributed to driver inattention or a failure to see the motorcyclist, known as “inattentional blindness.”

Apart from the left-turn accidents, there are several other common causes of motorcycle accidents, which include:

• Speeding: Excessive speed not only reduces a motorcyclist’s ability to react in time to obstacles or road conditions but also increases the severity of an accident should it occur.
• Impaired Riding: Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a motorcyclist’s judgment, reaction times, and overall ability to operate the motorcycle safely.
• Lane Splitting: This practice involves riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic and can be dangerous due to the close proximity to cars and the reduced space to maneuver.
• Inexperienced Riders: Lack of experience can lead to poor decision-making on the road, which increases the risk of accidents. New riders may not have the skills to handle complex traffic situations effectively.
• Poor Road Conditions: Hazards like potholes, uneven road surfaces, slippery conditions due to weather, and road debris can all cause a motorcyclist to lose control.
• Distracted Driving: The inattention of other drivers on the road, such as using a phone, eating, or other distractions, can lead to drivers failing to notice motorcycles around them.
• Motorcycle Defects: Mechanical failures or defects in the motorcycle itself can lead to accidents, especially if the defect involves brakes, tires, or the steering mechanism.
• Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, wind, and other weather conditions can impair visibility and reduce traction, making riding more hazardous.
• Car Doors: An open door of a parked car can be a sudden obstacle for a motorcyclist, particularly on busy city streets.
• Riding Without Protective Gear: Lack of appropriate safety gear or failure to abide by Missouri’s helmet law can significantly increase the risk of being injured as a result of an accident.

Understanding these factors and faults in motorcycle accidents can help ensure that preventive measures are taken to ride safely and reduce risk on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What state has the highest motorcycle accident rate?

According to the most recent data in the United States from the NSC, Florida had the highest motorcycle accident rate per year, at 668 accidents. 

What state is the safest for motorcycles?

According to recent statistics and the qualities that constitute “safe states,” Minnesota, California, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Arizona, and Colorado are some of the safest states to ride motorcycles, according to Riders Share.

What should I do after a motorcycle accident?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to seek medical treatment immediately. If injuries resulted from the accident, it’s generally recommended to consult a motorcycle accident attorney to help you understand your rights and legal options. We partner with top Missouri law firms, including Brown & Crouppen, to help you get the best legal representation.    

How much compensation can I recover if I’ve been injured?

The average motorcycle accident settlement is approximately $79,334.61, according to Brown & Crouppen Law Firm. If you or a loved one was injured in an accident, you may be eligible to recover compensation for economic and non-economic damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and possibly punitive damages, depending on the circumstances of the accident. You can use an online motorcycle accident settlement calculator to better understand how much your claim may be worth.

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Author: Sonny-The Badger