A motorcycle accident, regardless of whether it occurs in Montana or another part of the country, can lead to serious injury or death. Most motorcyclists realize they are taking a risk every time they jump on their bike. Even then, the majority believes they will never be involved in an accident.

It is important to remember that a motorcycle accident can happen at any time, even when the motorcyclist is doing his or her part in acting in a safe and responsible manner.

The U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shared some information on just how serious motorcycle accidents have become.

In 2012, 4,957 motorcyclists died in a motor vehicle crash. This number is big enough on its own, but even more serious when you consider that this is a seven percent increase from 2011.

Motorcycle accident injuries are even more common, with 93,000 people injured in this type of accident in 2012. Once again, this was an increase over 2011, in which 81,000 motorcyclists were injured.

This data shows that being involved in a motorcycle accident is a very real possibility. An accident can result from a motorcyclist error, as well as the negligence of another driver. With the number of registered motorcycles topping 8.4 million in 2012, it is easy to see that only a small portion are involved in an accident. However, it only takes one mistake by one driver to cause an accident.

If a motorcyclist is injured, due to no fault of one’s own, he or she may wish to learn more about personal injury laws and whether one can file a claim.

Source: U.S. Department of Transportation National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Motorcycles” Oct. 14, 2014