Arizona Motorcycle Accidents Are on the Rise—Here’s What Riders Need to Know
Motorcycle crashes in Arizona aren’t just tragic—they’re increasing. Despite safety awareness campaigns and improved helmet laws, the number of motorcycle accidents in the state has grown in recent years. Riders across Tempe and Arizona face a unique set of risks, and understanding your legal options after a crash is critical.
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a motorcycle collision, connecting with an Arizona motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand your rights and your options for a free consultation.
Motorcycle Accidents Happen More Often Than You Think
According to Arizona Department of Transportation data, there were over 2,000 motorcycle crashes in a recent year. Of those, the overwhelming majority resulted in injury or death. Unlike occupants in passenger vehicles, motorcycle riders lack the protective structure of a car. That means even a low-speed crash can cause devastating harm.
Many of these crashes occur on city streets, not just highways. Tempe roads near Downtown, North Tempe, and near university traffic corridors are hotspots for motorcycle collisions due to high traffic volume and distracted drivers.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Arizona
Motorcycle accidents in Arizona are frequently caused by the negligence of other drivers. Some of the most common contributing factors include:
Left-turn collisions: A driver turns in front of an oncoming motorcyclist
Lane changes: Motorcycles disappear in blind spots, especially on multi-lane roads
Distracted driving: Texting, eating, or in-car tech use leads to delayed reaction times
Failure to yield: At stop signs or when merging
One of the most dangerous crash types for riders is the T-bone accident, which often occurs at intersections where visibility is limited. Riders are also frequently victims in hit and run accidents, which can delay critical emergency care.
Arizona Law Is Not Always On the Rider’s Side
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence system. This means if you're partially at fault for the accident—even just 1% responsible—your compensation can be reduced accordingly. Insurance companies often try to argue that riders were speeding, weaving, or lane splitting to shift blame and reduce payouts.
Whether your crash happened in South Tempe, Escalante, or beyond, you’ll want legal help to ensure the facts are presented clearly. This is especially important in cases involving serious injury or wrongful death.
Motorcycle Injuries Can Be Severe—Even When the Crash Looks Minor
Unlike passenger vehicle occupants, motorcycle riders take the full force of impact. Common injuries include:
Traumatic brain injuries, even with helmet use
Broken bones and road rash
Many of these injuries require months or even years of recovery, making it essential to document medical care and understand the long-term cost of treatment. Our team can connect you with an attorney who understands the medical and legal complexities involved.
Rideshare and Commercial Vehicle Collisions Add Layers of Complexity
Some motorcycle crashes involve commercial vehicles or rideshare drivers. If an Uber driver strikes a motorcyclist while carrying a passenger, the insurance coverage in play could be different than in a personal vehicle crash. The same goes for delivery trucks and rideshare collisions.
Why Uninsured Drivers Are Especially Dangerous for Riders
Arizona requires minimum liability coverage, but many drivers on the road are still uninsured. When an uninsured driver hits a motorcyclist, the stakes are higher because the medical bills and lost wages can quickly become overwhelming.
If you're dealing with an uninsured driver, your own uninsured motorist coverage may apply—but only if you have it, and only under certain conditions. This is one area where having legal help can make a major difference.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash in Arizona
If you're able, take the following steps after a crash:
Call 911 and get a police report
Get immediate medical attention
Take photos of the scene and your injuries
Avoid giving recorded statements to insurance companies
Contact a lawyer for a free consultation
You can also explore legal aid options through az.gov or review guidance from the Arizona courts.
When to Talk to a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Whether you were in a crash near Holdeman or on the outskirts of Meyer Park, the right legal support can help you:
Navigate the insurance process
Avoid blame-shifting tactics
Pursue compensation for long-term medical costs
Secure expert evaluations of your injuries
We connect Tempe riders with attorneys who offer a free consultation and understand the local landscape.
Need help now? Start with a free legal consultation from our team at Tempe Car Accident Attorney.
