Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can be incredibly dangerous and often result in physical, financial, and emotional trauma for those involved. As a motorcyclist, it’s important to know the common causes of motorcycle crashes so you can take steps to reduce your risk of being injured or worse.
Knowing what causes motorcycle accidents is just as important as knowing how to avoid them. When it comes to avoiding motorcycle crashes, being aware of the most common causes and taking action to prevent such an incident is key. The more you know about potential risks, the better prepared you will be when out on the road. So, let’s take a look at some of the common causes of motorcycle accidents.
Accidents Caused By Left Turning Cars
Accidents at intersections are especially common, and can be deadly for motorcycle riders. Drivers often don’t see or misjudge a motorcyclist’s speed when making left turns, resulting in a collision. To avoid this type of accident, staying alert and aware at all times while approaching intersections is important. Paying attention to the cars around you will help you spot potential risks, giving you more time to take evasive action if necessary.
Speeding & Reckless Driving
Speeding and other reckless driving are also common causes of motorcycle crashes. When riding a motorcycle, it’s important to remember that even small mistakes can have serious consequences. To stay safe, always follow speed limits and refrain from aggressive driving.
Poor Road Conditions
Another cause of motorcycle accidents is poor road conditions. Potholes, gravel, and other debris on the road can be hazardous for motorcyclists who don’t have the protection of a car. To stay safe, it’s important to be extra cautious when riding in areas with poor road conditions.
Lane Switching Accidents
Lane-switching accidents are also a common cause of motorcycle crashes. These occur when drivers fail to pay attention and switch lanes without first checking their blind spots. To avoid this type of accident, it’s important to signal before lane changes and double-check your mirrors and blind spots for other vehicles.
Head On Collisions
Head-on collisions between a motorcycle and another vehicle are often fatal for the motorcyclist. Depending on the speed, if a motorcycle comes to an abrupt stop in a split second, the driver is likely to be crushed or catapulted through the air. These types of accidents can occur when one vehicle fails to pay attention and switches lanes without first checking their blind spot, or when a car fails to recognize the speed of a motorcycle. To reduce the risk of this type of accident, it’s important to stay alert and aware at all times, and signal before changing lanes. Always double-check your mirrors and blind spots for other vehicles as well. Motorcyclists should also be extra cautious when riding in areas with poor road conditions. By following these safety tips, motorcyclists can help to avoid potentially fatal accidents.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is the practice of riding between two lanes of traffic, which can be dangerous for motorcyclists. It’s illegal in most states, and even when it is allowed, there are certain rules that must be followed. To stay safe while lane splitting, it’s important to make sure you know the local laws and regulations before attempting this maneuver. Or even better be safe and avoid lane splitting all together.
Drinking & Driving
Finally, drinking and driving is a major cause of motorcycle accidents. Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time, making it even more difficult for motorcyclists to avoid potential hazards on the road. To reduce the risk of being involved in an accident, never drink and ride. Leave the bike behind and get a ride with a sober driver, your life is not worth risking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, motorcycle accidents can have serious and even fatal consequences. To stay safe, it’s important to be aware of the risks on the road and take steps to reduce them. Paying attention to other drivers, following speed limits, avoiding lane splitting, and never drinking and driving are just a few of the safety measures that can help reduce the risk of a motorcycle accident. With these precautions in mind, motorcyclists can enjoy the ride with peace of mind.
If you have had a motorcycle accident contact Gay and Chacker to see if you qualify to file a claim.
