How are motorcycle accidents investigated?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2020 there were 4,985 motorcycle deaths in the United States. Additionally, the NHTSA reports that, in that same year, motorcycles were involved in 14% of all traffic fatalities despite accounting for only 3% of all registered vehicles in the United States.

Having an accident on a motorcycle can have fatal consequences for the driver. When a motorcycle accident occurs, the investigation process can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the severity of the accident. Let us now see how these investigations are carried out in general terms.

How are motorcycle accidents investigated?

There are some general steps that are typically taken during a motorcycle accident investigation:

· Accident scene: Police officers are often the first to respond to the scene of a motorcycle accident. They assess the situation, provide the necessary medical assistance and secure the area.

· Evidence Collection: Investigators collect and analyze evidence from the scene, including photographs, measurements, and physical evidence such as debris from the accident. They may also interview witnesses to the accident.

· Performing a crash reconstruction: Investigators can use crash reconstruction techniques to determine the cause of the crash. This could include computer modeling, skid mark analysis, and other forensic techniques.

· Medical Report Review – Investigators review medical reports to determine the extent of injuries sustained by the motorcyclist and any other parties involved in the accident.

· Traffic Law Review: Investigators review traffic laws to determine if violations or traffic violations occurred that may have contributed to the accident.

· Determination of Liability: Based on the evidence collected and reviewed, investigators determine who was responsible for causing the accident.

Writing a report: Researchers write a detailed report that describes the research findings.