Most Common Reasons Motorcycle Accidents Occur

While riding motorcycles may be fun and convenient, offering riders more freedom between them, nature, and the road ahead, there are also more risks associated with them than other vehicles. In fact, there are approximately 104,000 motorcycle accidents every year,  most of which transpire because riders are unaware of the common causes of accidents. The best way to enjoy your ride is to understand the potential threats and proactively take steps to mitigate them.

Below are five dangerous situations that riders should be cognizant of:

  • Other vehicles cannot see the motorcyclist: Maximize your visibility by wearing light-reflective clothing and ensure that your bike’s lights are always on.
  • Other motorists make a left-hand turn: This most commonly happens when a motorcycle is driving straight and another vehicle makes a left-hand turn through an intersection. The likelihood and severity of a motorcyclist’s injury in this situation is high, so it’s imperative that proper safety apparel and gear is worn.
  • Reckless, impaired, or distracted driving: No matter what vehicle a driver is responsible for operating, it is never okay to drive under the influence, distracted, or recklessly. Doing so puts you and others in grave danger.
  • Road hazards: Potholes, grooved or uneven pavement, and debris on the road may not affect other vehicles but it may be the cause of a potentially fatal accident for motorcyclists. Drivers should be constantly aware of their surroundings and the road that lies ahead to better prepare themselves for changes in their driving conditions.
  • Motorcycle lane splitting: This dangerous maneuver occurs when motorcycles drive between other cars and in breakdown lanes due to traffic jams or slowed traffic. Serious injuries can happen because other drivers do not anticipate oncoming motorcyclists, they are in extremely close proximity to other vehicles, and the slower speed of the bike makes it harder to maneuver.

Any vehicle can be potentially dangerous. The likelihood of trouble is dependent on how you operate the vehicle, how aware of your surroundings you are, and knowing how to avoid common causes of accidents. However, when an accident does happen, it’s important to know your options. To protect your right to make a claim for injuries that occur as a result of a motorcycle accident, call the law firm of Martin, Harding & Mazzotti, LLP ® at 1800LAW1010 ® (1.800.529.1010)