Are there more car accidents or motorcycle accidents in the UK?
Cars are involved in more accidents overall, but motorcycle crashes are far more severe.
While drivers make up the bulk of road traffic and therefore feature in most collision statistics, it’s motorcyclists who face the highest risks on the road.
With over 32 million cars on UK roads versus just 1.3 million motorcycles, it’s no surprise that cars account for the majority of reported incidents. But these numbers only tell half the story. When you compare accident severity, motorcyclists are up to 25 times more likely to be killed or seriously injured per mile travelled.
The reasons? Motorcycles offer no structural protection, leaving riders vulnerable even at lower speeds. Cars, on the other hand, come equipped with airbags, crumple zones, and increasingly advanced safety technology. So while car accidents are more frequent, it’s motorcyclists who pay the higher price when things go wrong.
In this guide, we’ll explore how accident rates differ between cars and motorbikes, which factors contribute most to risk, and what all road users can take from the stats—whether you’re a daily commuter, a new rider, or simply comparing insurance options.
How do accident rates compare between cars and motorcycles?
Motorcycles have far higher accident and fatality rates relative to their numbers and mileage.
Even though cars are involved in more total accidents, motorcyclists are significantly more likely to be seriously injured or killed per journey.
According to UK Department for Transport figures:
- There are roughly 4,500 serious injuries or deaths per billion miles travelled by motorcyclists.
- For car drivers, the figure is just 250 per billion miles—that’s 18 times lower.
Motorcycles make up less than 1% of road traffic but account for around 20% of all road fatalities. This disproportionate risk stems from exposure. Without a metal frame, seatbelt, or airbag, even a low-speed collision can have life-altering consequences for a rider.
To provide context:
- In 2022, 11,827 motorcyclist casualties were recorded in Great Britain.
- By comparison, 123,000+ car user casualties occurred, but car occupants were far less likely to die or be seriously injured.
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Get QuotesWhy are motorcycle accidents more dangerous?
Motorcycle accidents are more dangerous because riders have minimal protection, greater exposure, and are harder for other drivers to see.
These factors increase both the likelihood and severity of injuries compared to car occupants.
Let’s break it down:
- Lack of physical protection: No crumple zones, seatbelts, or airbags means a rider absorbs the full force of an impact.
- High vulnerability in multi-vehicle collisions: Cars often fail to spot motorcycles—especially at junctions. This leads to sudden, side-impact crashes, which are particularly lethal for bikers.
- Instability: Two wheels mean that any surface hazard—oil, rain, loose gravel—can cause a bike to lose control far more easily than a car.
- Speed and acceleration: Some motorcycles have incredible acceleration, but this can lead to overconfidence, especially among younger or inexperienced riders.
- Riskier riding environments: Motorcyclists are more likely to ride on rural roads, where bends, speed, and a lack of lighting contribute to higher accident rates.
Even wearing proper gear doesn’t guarantee safety. Helmets, gloves, and leathers offer critical protection—but only to a degree. That’s why the fatality rate per mile remains so much higher for bikers.
Are car drivers or motorcyclists usually at fault?
Car drivers are more often found at fault in motorcycle accidents, especially in multi-vehicle collisions.
A common cause is drivers failing to notice or misjudging the speed of an oncoming motorbike—especially at junctions or during lane changes.
Several UK studies and police reports reveal that:
- Right-of-way violations (e.g. turning across a motorcyclist’s path) are one of the leading causes of bike accidents—and the driver of the car is usually to blame.
- “Sorry mate, I didn’t see you” (SMIDSY) is a frequent claim made by drivers after colliding with a motorcycle. This reflects a widespread failure to observe, not deliberate recklessness.
- In contrast, motorcyclists are more often responsible in single-vehicle accidents, typically due to speeding, taking corners too fast, or braking abruptly.
This distinction matters: motorcyclists face elevated risk not just from their own riding behaviour, but from the decisions and awareness of others on the road.
How do fatalities and injuries compare between cars and motorcycles?
Motorcyclists are far more likely to be seriously injured or killed in a crash than car drivers.
Even though motorcycles make up just a small fraction of road traffic in the UK, they account for a disproportionately high number of fatalities.
According to government data:
- Motorcyclists are four times more likely to be killed in a road traffic collision than car occupants.
- In 2023, motorcycles made up just 1% of road traffic but accounted for over 20% of all road deaths.
- The fatality rate per billion miles for motorcyclists is over 50 times higher than for car drivers.
This is largely due to the lack of structural protection on a motorbike. Riders are more exposed and vulnerable in any collision, whether it’s with another vehicle or a fixed object. While modern cars benefit from airbags, crumple zones, and seatbelts, motorcyclists rely mostly on skill, visibility, and protective gear.
Final thoughts
Car accidents may be more common, but motorcycle crashes carry far greater risk. The difference isn’t just about volume — it’s about vulnerability. With no metal shell or airbags, motorcyclists face the road with less protection and significantly higher odds of serious injury or death per mile travelled.
That said, all road users face risk — and insurance premiums reflect that reality. Whether you’re comparing car insurance for everyday commuting or need motorbike insurance for weekend rides, having the right cover isn’t just about legality — it’s peace of mind when the unexpected happens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. While cars are involved in more total crashes, motorcycle accidents are far more likely to result in serious injury or death due to the lack of protection around the rider.
Motorcycle accidents most commonly occur during evening rush hour, particularly between 4pm and 7pm, when traffic is heavier and visibility starts to drop.
Yes. Rain, wind, and icy roads impact motorcyclists more severely than car drivers because bikes are less stable and offer no shelter.
In many cases, car drivers are at fault — often due to failing to see the motorcycle when turning or changing lanes.
Motorbike insurance is often cheaper than car insurance in terms of base cost, but premiums can rise significantly due to the increased risk of serious injury in accidents.
Sport bikes tend to have the highest accident rates. Their speed, performance, and popularity among younger riders contribute to the risk profile.
Yes. Inexperience is a major factor. Riders with less than two years of experience are statistically more likely to be involved in an accident.
Absolutely. High-visibility jackets and helmets improve rider visibility, especially in low-light conditions, which helps reduce the chance of being missed by other drivers.