How Many Motorcycle Accidents Are Rear Ends?

Reginald Gray
Founder and Chief Editor at - PersonalInjuryJustice

Reginald Gray is the visionary force behind PersonalInjuryJustice. A seasoned lawyer with over two decades of experience in personal injury law, Reginald's profound understanding of...Read more

Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation for many, offering a sense of freedom and adventure that can’t be matched by other vehicles. However, riding a motorcycle comes with inherent risks, and one of the most common types of accidents involves being rear-ended by another vehicle.

While rear-end collisions are often associated with cars, they can be just as dangerous for motorcyclists. In fact, research has shown that a significant percentage of motorcycle accidents involve a rear-end collision. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at this issue and explore some of the factors that contribute to these types of accidents.

Rear-end collisions are a common type of motorcycle accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), nearly one-third of motorcycle accidents involving two vehicles are rear-end collisions. These types of accidents can often result in serious injuries or even fatalities for the motorcyclist.

How Many Motorcycle Accidents Are Rear Ends?

How Many Motorcycle Accidents Are Rear Ends?

Motorcycle accidents are a dangerous reality for riders on the road. One of the most common types of accidents involving motorcycles is a rear-end collision. These types of accidents occur when a car or truck hits a motorcycle from behind. In this article, we will explore how many motorcycle accidents are rear ends and why they happen so frequently.

What Causes Rear-End Motorcycle Accidents?

Rear-end motorcycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons. The most common cause is when a driver is distracted and fails to notice a motorcycle in front of them. This can happen when a driver is texting, talking on the phone, or simply not paying attention to the road. Other causes can include:


  • Speeding

  • Tailgating

  • Driving under the influence

  • Failure to obey traffic signals

  • Weather conditions

When a driver is involved in a rear-end collision with a motorcycle, the results can be devastating. Motorcycles offer little protection for riders, and the impact of a car or truck hitting a motorcycle can cause serious injuries or even death.

How Many Motorcycle Accidents Are Rear Ends?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 1 in 4 motorcycle accidents involves a rear-end collision. This means that rear-end collisions are a significant cause of motorcycle accidents, and riders need to be aware of the risks involved.

Read More:  How To Prevent Motorcycle Accidents?

In 2019, there were a total of 5,014 motorcycle fatalities in the United States. Of those fatalities, 1,246 involved a rear-end collision. This means that rear-end collisions accounted for nearly 25% of all motorcycle fatalities.

The Dangers of Rear-End Motorcycle Accidents

Rear-end motorcycle accidents can be particularly dangerous for riders. Motorcycles offer little protection, and riders can be thrown from their bikes upon impact. This can result in serious injuries, such as:


  • Broken bones

  • Head injuries

  • Spinal cord injuries

  • Internal injuries

In the worst-case scenario, a rear-end motorcycle accident can result in death. Riders who survive these types of accidents often face a long road to recovery and may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Preventing Rear-End Motorcycle Accidents

Riders can take steps to reduce the risk of a rear-end motorcycle accident. One of the most important things a rider can do is to stay visible on the road. This means wearing bright, reflective clothing and using lights and reflectors on their bike. Riders should also follow traffic laws and be aware of their surroundings at all times.

Drivers can also help prevent rear-end motorcycle accidents by paying attention to the road and avoiding distractions. They should also leave plenty of space between their vehicle and any motorcycles on the road.

The Bottom Line

Rear-end motorcycle accidents are a serious issue on the road. They are a leading cause of motorcycle fatalities and can result in serious injuries for riders. By staying aware of the risks and taking steps to prevent these types of accidents, riders can stay safe on the road. And drivers can do their part by paying attention and sharing the road with motorcycles. Remember, safety should always be the top priority for everyone on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a rear-end motorcycle accident?

A rear-end motorcycle accident is when a car, truck, or other vehicle collides with the back of a motorcycle. These types of accidents are often caused by a driver who is following too closely or not paying attention to the road.

In many cases, rear-end motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries or even death for the motorcyclist. It is important for drivers to be aware of motorcycles on the road and give them plenty of space to avoid accidents.

How common are rear-end motorcycle accidents?

Rear-end motorcycle accidents are unfortunately quite common. In fact, they are one of the most common types of accidents involving motorcycles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, rear-end collisions are responsible for about 30% of all motorcycle accidents.

These accidents can happen in a variety of situations, but they often occur when a driver fails to see a motorcycle in front of them or misjudges the distance between their vehicle and the motorcycle.

What are the most common injuries in rear-end motorcycle accidents?

Rear-end motorcycle accidents can result in a range of injuries for the motorcyclist. Some of the most common injuries include broken bones, head trauma, spinal cord injuries, and road rash.

Because motorcycles offer little protection in the event of an accident, injuries can be severe or even fatal. It is important for motorcyclists to wear protective gear such as helmets and leather jackets to reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident.

Can a motorcyclist be at fault in a rear-end accident?

In most cases, the driver of the vehicle that rear-ends a motorcycle is considered at fault for the accident. However, there are some situations where a motorcyclist could be found partially or fully at fault for a rear-end accident.

For example, if a motorcyclist suddenly stops or weaves in and out of traffic without warning, they could be found partially at fault for an accident. It is important for all drivers, including motorcyclists, to follow traffic laws and drive safely to avoid accidents.

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What should I do if I am involved in a rear-end motorcycle accident?

If you are involved in a rear-end motorcycle accident, the first priority should be to seek medical attention for any injuries. You should also contact the police and exchange insurance information with the other driver.

If possible, take photos of the accident scene and get contact information from any witnesses. It may also be helpful to consult with a personal injury lawyer to understand your legal options and ensure you receive fair compensation for any damages or injuries.

REAR End Motorcycle CRASH Accidents


In conclusion, rear-end collisions are a significant concern for motorcyclists. While the exact number of motorcycle accidents that are rear-ends is debated, it is still a prevalent issue that can cause severe injuries or even fatalities.

It is crucial for both motorcyclists and other road users to be aware of their surroundings and practice safe driving habits to prevent rear-end collisions. This includes maintaining a safe following distance, using turn signals, and avoiding distractions while driving.

By taking proactive measures to prevent rear-end collisions, we can make our roads safer for everyone. Let’s work together to reduce the number of motorcycle accidents and ensure that all road users arrive at their destinations safely.

Reginald GrayFounder and Chief Editor at - PersonalInjuryJustice

Reginald Gray is the visionary force behind PersonalInjuryJustice. A seasoned lawyer with over two decades of experience in personal injury law, Reginald's profound understanding of the legal landscape and his deep empathy for victims inspired the creation of PersonalInjuryJustice. His only mission is to ensure victims have easy access to comprehensive, authentic information to assist them in their fight for justice. As Chief Editor, he rigorously ensures our content's accuracy, reliability, and pertinence.

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