It is no surprise to anyone that riding a motorcycle can be hazardous to one's health. The National Highway Traffic Safety Association, or NHTSA, compiles statistics on motorcycle accidents each year and the results cannot be easily dismissed.

In 2008, 5,290 motorcycle riders were killed on U.S. roads and highways, accounting for 14% of the total traffic fatalities in the United States, even though motorcycle registrations make up only about 2% of all vehicles registered. A motorcycle rider and his or her passenger are riding in an unprotected vehicle; consequently, an astounding 80% of all motorcycle crashes result in an injury or fatality. There were also 96,000 injuries from motorcycle-related accidents in this time period.

Of the total motorcycle fatalities in 2008, 59% of riders did not wear a helmet. About 30% of those killed had a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher. Most states now consider any BAC exceeding 0.08% as a violation resulting in a suspended license, higher insurance rates, mandatory alcohol counseling, and jail time even for first-time offenders.

35% of riders who suffered fatal injuries in 2008 were speeding and about one in four were riding with an invalid license. 346 of this number were aged 15 to 20, and nearly 8,000 in this age group suffered injuries. About 35% of this group wore no helmet and 43% had no license or were riding with an invalid one. Even with these numbers, many motorcycle fatalities and injuries do involve other vehicles.

The statistics for 2009 indicated a 10% decrease in motorcycle fatalities for 2010, but the economic downturn probably accounted for this more than any other cause.

The NHTSA's study found that wearing a motorcycle helmet will reduce fatal injuries by about 37% for operators, and 41% for passengers. It is obvious to see why this kind of protection has been mandated by a number of states, including California.

If you are injured while operating a motorcycle, it is vital that you secure the services of a specialized personal injury attorney to prosecute your claim. Motorcycle accidents differ from the usual auto accident, and it requires the expertise and experience of a Los Angeles motorcycle personal injury attorney who understands the unique training that a motorcycle operator undergoes and who possesses intimate knowledge of the traffic codes and how they relate to the rules of evidence and laws governing the concepts of tort or negligence.