Motorcyclists remain one of the most vulnerable groups of road users in the UK. In the year ending June 2024, there were an estimated 1,607 road fatalities across Great Britain, according to provisional statistics from the Department for Transport. While motorcyclists represent a small fraction of overall traffic, they consistently experience a disproportionately high rate of death and serious injury in road collisions compared to drivers of other vehicles. The nature of motorcycle crashes, which often involve direct impact with other vehicles or the road surface, puts riders at a much higher risk of spinal injuries, head trauma, leg injuries, and other life-altering consequences.

In this blog, we examine the most common types of motorcycle accidents, drawing on official government statistics to help illustrate how these crashes occur and what injuries are often sustained. We’ll also outline what steps injured riders should take after an accident, and how our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers can help those affected to pursue compensation.

Collisions with other vehicles

Collisions between motorbikes and other vehicles, particularly cars, remain one of the most prevalent causes of motorcycle accidents in the UK. Between 2019 and 2023, 37% of motorcycle fatalities occurred in two-vehicle collisions involving a car . Such collisions can result in a range of serious injuries, including head and spinal cord injuries in the most severe accidents. In many cases, the negligence of other drivers is a significant factor in these accidents. 'Driver or rider failing to look properly' is listed as the most common contributory factor, appearing in 92% of serious or fatal collisions.

Loss of control in single-vehicle crashes

Single-vehicle accidents, where the motorcyclist loses control without involving another vehicle, accounted for 6,105 serious accidents between 2019 and 2023 - 23% of the total recorded during this period . Factors contributing to these accidents include slippery road surfaces, sudden obstacles and mechanical failures. Such incidents can lead to the likes of road rash, leg injuries and spinal injuries. Even when no other vehicles were involved, it's important for injured riders to document the circumstances of the accident, as it may still be possible to make a claim. For example, you may be owed compensation by the manufacturer of a defective component, or the local authority responsible for a badly maintained road surface.

Rear-end collisions

Motorcyclists are at risk of being hit from behind, especially in heavy traffic or at traffic signals. Rear-end collisions can cause a range of injuries, from whiplash and neck injuries to a traumatic brain injury if riders are jolted or knocked to the ground. Even with protective clothing and helmets, the relative exposure of motorcyclists makes them particularly susceptible to serious injuries in such accidents.

Dooring and side-swipes in traffic

In urban environments, motorcyclists often face hazards like car doors opening unexpectedly (known as dooring) or vehicles changing lanes without checking their mirrors first. These incidents can lead to crashes resulting in injuries such as broken arms, rib fractures and nerve damage. The sudden nature of these accidents often leaves riders with little time to react.

Cornering too fast for conditions

Taking corners at excessive speed, or misjudging a bend, can easily lead to loss of control and a crash. This type of accident is especially common on unfamiliar roads, or where poor maintenance - such as potholes, debris or worn road markings - affects grip and visibility. When a rider loses control mid-corner, the results can be severe, often involving head injuries, permanent scarring, or long-term joint and nerve damage in the limbs.

While it might seem that the rider alone is at fault in these cases, that’s not always true. If you were speeding, for example, but poor road conditions contributed to the loss of control, it may be possible to pursue a claim against the responsible authority. This is known as contributory negligence - where fault is shared between the rider and another party. In these situations, a compensation award may still be made, but reduced in proportion to the rider’s share of responsibility. Legal advice can help clarify whether contributory negligence may apply to your case.

Common motorcycle accident injuries

Motorcycle accidents can result in a range of injuries, including:​

• Head trauma: even with helmets, riders can suffer concussions or severe brain injuries.​
• Spinal cord injuries: these can lead to partial or complete paralysis, significantly impacting quality of life.​
• Leg and lower limb injuries: fractures and crush injuries are common due to the exposed position of the rider's legs.​
• Road rash: skin abrasions caused by sliding on the road surface, which can lead to infections or require skin grafts.​
• Upper extremity injuries: including broken arms and wrist fractures from bracing during a fall.​

Wearing appropriate protective clothing and helmets can mitigate some injuries, but the risk remains significant. If you've sustained any of these injuries in a motorcycle accident, it's important to seek medical attention promptly and consult with a solicitor to explore your options for compensation.​

What to do if you're injured in a motorcycle accident

If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident, taking the right steps early on can make a difference to your recovery. It can also open up more legal options should you decide to make a claim. Motorcyclists involved in collisions with other vehicles, or in single-vehicle crashes caused by poor road conditions or mechanical failure, often sustain serious injuries that may not be immediately visible and may worsen over time. That’s why you should always seek medical attention, even if you think you've escaped with minor wounds. This will also create a record of the injuries you sustained - something that will be important to any claim that you make.

If another vehicle was involved, or if there was substantial damage or injury, the police should be informed. A police report will serve as a crucial piece of evidence should you wish to pursue compensation later.

Photographs of the accident scene, any damage to your motorcycle, the road conditions, and your injuries can all support your case. This is especially relevant in cases involving poor visibility, dangerous junctions, or where other drivers dispute their involvement. If possible, gather witness contact details - a solicitor can collect their statements to help strengthen your compensation claim.

You should also keep a record of your injuries, treatments received and any costs you've incurred - such as for private healthcare, travel to hospital appointments or rehabilitation services. Many injured riders are unable to return to work immediately, particularly those recovering from spinal cord injuries or nerve damage. Evidence of lost earnings, along with proof of any long-term health impact like chronic pain or permanent scarring, may increase the value of a compensation claim.

Finally, speak to a solicitor. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will understand the specific challenges injured motorcyclists face. Switalskis can help assess the strength of your case, clarify what compensation you may be entitled to and represent you if a claim progresses to court. If you’ve been injured in an accident that wasn’t your fault, professional legal advice can be a critical part of your recovery.

How Switalskis can help injured motorcyclists

We understand that motorcycle accident victims often feel overwhelmed by the aftermath of a serious crash. You may be dealing with long recovery periods, facing financial pressures from lost income or adjusting to life after a permanent impairment. We’ve worked with injured riders facing all of these difficulties – and we’re here to help.

Our motorcycle accident lawyers are experienced in handling claims of all kinds. We also support clients who have experienced psychological trauma, permanent scarring or chronic pain as a result of their accident.

We usually act on a no win, no fee basis. That means you won’t need to worry about legal costs while we work on your claim. We will guide you through every stage, from establishing the cause of the crash and identifying who was responsible, to securing the compensation you deserve for the injuries sustained. That compensation can cover your lost earnings, future care needs, rehabilitation costs, and more.

Get in touch

If you or someone you care about has been injured in a motorcycle crash, Switalskis is here to support you, and to make the legal process of making a claim as clear and manageable as possible. Call us today on 0800 138 0458 , or get in touch through our website to speak directly with one of our specialists.