Our founding attorney, Carl Nagle, has owned and ridden motorcycles for over four decades. According to Carl, “we see a significant increase in bike accidents and motorcycle injury claims in Spring, when riders get their bikes out and ride for the first time in several months. Unfortunately, it appears that riders get a bit rusty and fail to exercise heightened care when they start riding again after Winter. Beyond this, crashes increase because we also see a larger number of riders on the roadway in the warmer months.”
Motorcycle accidents in North Carolina exhibit a clear seasonal pattern, with a significant increase during the spring and summer months compared to the winter season. This trend is influenced by factors such as weather conditions, rider behavior, and traffic volume.
Seasonal Trends in Motorcycle Accidents
Data from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) and other sources highlight the following patterns:
- Spring and Summer (April–September): These months see the highest number of motorcycle accidents. In 2021, May and September each reported over 430 motorcycle crashes, with May recording 31 fatalities and September 24 . June is particularly dangerous, with a 12% increase in deaths or injuries from fatal crashes compared to the monthly average
- Winter (December–February): Accident rates drop significantly during the colder months. January 2021 had the fewest motorcycle crashes (90) and fatalities (4) . This decline is likely due to fewer riders on the road and less favorable riding conditions.
Factors Contributing to Seasonal Variations
Several factors contribute to the seasonal fluctuations in motorcycle accidents:
- Increased Ridership: Warmer weather encourages more people to ride motorcycles, increasing exposure and the likelihood of accidents.
- Longer Daylight Hours: Extended daylight in spring and summer leads to more riding time, especially during peak traffic hours, which can increase accident risk.
- Winter Gap Leaves Riders Unprepared: Motorcycles handle quite differently than cars, and riders who haven’t been on the road for months during the coldest season may need practice before they negotiate high speed curves or attempt heavy braking. A gradual increase in riding after winter is the safest approach to the new riding season.
- Recreational Riding: Summer months often involve more recreational riding, sometimes involving higher speeds and unfamiliar routes.
- Protective Gear Usage: Riders may opt for lighter, less protective gear in warmer weather, potentially leading to more severe injuries in the event of an accident.
Safety Recommendations
To mitigate the risks associated with seasonal variations in motorcycle accidents, riders should consider the following safety measures:
- Year-Round Protective Gear: Invest in appropriate gear for all seasons. For summer, consider breathable, armored jackets and gloves to stay cool while protected. In winter, insulated and waterproof gear can keep you warm and dry.
- Increased Visibility: Wear bright or reflective clothing and use headlights during the day to enhance visibility to other motorists.
- Defensive Riding: Always anticipate potential hazards, maintain safe following distances, and be cautious at intersections.
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure your motorcycle is in good working condition, with regular checks on brakes, tires, and lights.
- Training and Education: Participate in motorcycle safety courses to improve riding skills and stay updated on best practices.
North Carolina’s Most Dangerous Counties for Motorcyclists
According to the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, Wake County saw the largest incidence of motorcycle crashes reported in 2021. For that year’s data, the following counties showed reported crashes typically highest in the larger cities, although it was noteworthy that Raleigh and Wake County experienced more crashes than Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. Here are the top counties for crashes during that year:
- Wake County: Out of the 100 counties in North Carolina, Wake County ranked #1 in the state with 271 reported crashes.
- Mecklenburg County: Despite its much higher population and motor vehicle traffic counts, Mecklenburg ranked second to Wake with 267 motorcycle crashes.
- Guilford County: Home to the cities of Greensboro and High Point and sharing the interchanges of Interstate Highways I-85 and I-77, Guilford experienced 159 motorcycle accidents.
- Cumberland County: Ranking fourth, Cumberland experienced 117 motorcycle accidents.
- Buncombe County: Asheville and Bucombe county saw 92 bike crashes.
Final Word for North Carolina Bike Accident Victims
Riding bikes is a joy, but the danger involved should never be ignored. Riders who collide with cars or trucks have no protection when they are ejected onto the road or into the path of oncoming traffic. Heightened caution should be exercised at all times when riding.
Unfortunately, for most bike accidents, the rider does everything correctly and the other driver is to blame. In these cases, bikers suffer serious injuries and they should act promptly to protect and enforce their legal rights. Our law firm ONLY handles roadway accidents, and fellow rider Carl Nagle stands ready to provide a free legal consultation today to anyone involved in a motorcycle accident. Don’t take legal advice from insurance companies and claims adjusters who are being paid to oppose and minimize your claims. Call today for immediate answers and the help you need.