If you are in good physical condition, there is no reason you cannot continue riding a motorcycle well into later adulthood. However, it should be noted that, statistically speaking, motorcyclists in their forties and older are seemingly more prone to suffer serious injuries in accidents than their younger counterparts.
Information gathered by the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that in 2013, 55 percent of motorcyclists who suffered fatal injuries were 40 years of age or older. Further, between the years 2004 and 2013, there was a 39 percent increase in the number of fatalities of motorcyclists who were 40 and above.
According to research conducted at Brown University, there are several possible factors that may have contributed to older riders being involved in more serious crashes. For one thing, older riders often prefer larger motorcycles, which have a greater tendency to roll over. Additionally, people's reaction time, vision and physical durability decrease with age.
While all riders must accept the risks inherent in operating a motorcycle, older riders may be particularly vulnerable. Crashes caused by such hazards as road debris, slippery surfaces or negligent drivers can prove not just serious, but all too often, fatal.
Losing a loved one in a fatal motorcycle accident can impose overwhelming sadness and stress on a family. During such a difficult period, it can be hard to think of fighting for fair compensation to cover funeral expenses, medical expenses and the loss of the deceased's financial contribution to the household.
If you are in such a situation, you may find the help of an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney to be of tremendous service. The attorney could advise you on your possible options for seeking recompense and represent your interests when working with insurance companies to gain a fair settlement.