Older Riders Are at Greater Risk of Injury in a Maryland Motorcycle Accident

As a growing population of seniors transitions into the world of retirement, more individuals in this category are venturing into the world of motorcycle riding. Motorcycle riding can offer a sense of excitement, freedom, and spontaneity for people after years of hard work, stress, and restrictions. However, this freedom can also come with a price for senior riders hitting the open road for the first time.

Studies show that riders are at the greatest risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident during the first 30 days of bike ownership. This is mostly due to inexperience and the complicated nature of learning to ride a motorcycle

Seniors’ Risk Of Injury In Maryland Motorcycle Crashes

Statistics show that elderly riders are three times more likely to be injured in a motorcycle accident than riders in their 20s or 30s. Younger riders may have more accidents by number, but older riders are the ones who are injured most frequently. In fact, seniors over the age of 60 are also three times more likely to be hospitalized after a motorcycle accident. But why?

Seniors are at a greater risk of injury due to:

• Decreased bone strength causes more breaks and fractures.
• Weight changes can reduce body fat, and provide less cushioning in the event of an accident.
• The overall decline in physical fitness can lead to reduced muscle strength, a decline in balance and decreased alertness on the road.
• Pre-existing health conditions can combine to cause more serious injuries in the event of an accident.

For many, taking a motorcycle safety class, or education class prior to jumping on a bike can be a helpful first step in reducing the chance of a motorcycle accident in Maryland from happening.

If you, or someone you love, are injured in a motorcycle accident, a skilled and knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney can help determine the exact cause, as well as which parties may be responsible for your injuries. Call Lewis & Tompkins today at 202-296-0666 to schedule a free appointment to get answers to your questions.