Riding a motorcycle is a passion for many, but it can also be incredibly deadly. Due to the lack of protection afforded by a motorcycle, motorcycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, massive medical expenses, and significant stress that can affect the rider’s whole family. However, every rider can do a few basic things that can help them stay safe while riding their motorcycle.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Even though motorcycle crashes can occur for a variety of reasons, the most common causes of these horrific accidents include the following:- Speeding: One of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents is speeding. The higher the speed of a vehicle or motorcycle, the more serious the consequences of a collision.
- Unsafe lane changes: When motor vehicle drivers fail to check their blind spots or signal that they plan to change lanes, they risk colliding with a motorcyclist.
- Left turn accidents: Left turn accidents are hazardous, especially when the crash results in a vehicle hitting a motorcyclist or T-boning them during the turn. In fact, studies from the Department of Transportation show that vehicles turning left are most likely to cause a fatal intersection accident.
- Inexperienced drivers: Motorcycle accidents often occur because inexperienced motorcyclists hit the roads and create compromising situations with their unsafe maneuvers.
- Driving under the influence: Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol creates slower reaction times, impacts judgment and decision-making, and consequently leads to deadly accidents.
- Rear-ending: Sudden stops can provoke dangerous rear-end accidents because one vehicle either follows another too closely or a driver fails to pay attention and does not break in time to avoid a collision.
- Dangerous road conditions: Potholes, debris, road hazards, or lack of proper signals or traffic signs can increase a motorcyclist’s chance of getting into an accident or losing control.
- Motorcycle defects: An improperly designed motorcycle or one that contains faulty parts can crash. A victim may hold the manufacturer or designer accountable for resulting injuries.
How to Avoid a Motorcycle Collision
Approximately 80 percent of all motorcycle accidents result in a serious injury or death. That is why, if you ride a motorcycle, you must take appropriate precautions to keep you and other motorists safe. Some important tips include:- Wear color and be seen: As a motorcyclist, it is critical to make yourself visible. Wearing bright or reflective colors can help you stand out. In addition, using a headlight, whether at night or during the day, can help make you more visible to other motorists. If you are unsure if another driver has seen you, make sure to use your horn to get their attention.
- Stay alert: Distracted driving can lead to incredibly deadly accidents. For these reasons, if you are riding your motorcycle, you need to pay attention to not only the road and other drivers but also the surrounding conditions.
- Wear proper gear: The clothes you wear while you are on your bike are incredibly important. You must wear long thick pants and sleeves, gloves, durable boots, and eye protection that can keep your body safe. Additionally, you want to make sure you also wear an approved Department of Transportation helmet that you replace every five years for optimal protection.
- Be careful at intersections: Considering how deadly intersections can be for motorcyclists, riders must pay extra attention when they come to an intersection. Make sure you are looking out for motorists making left turns and those who may not be paying attention whenever you approach an intersection on your bike.
- Never drink and ride: Staying sober while riding a motorcycle is crucial for not only your safety but also for the safety of other drivers on the road. Even a small amount of alcohol or drugs can have a significant impact on your riding ability.
- Get trained: If you are a new motorcyclist, take a motorcycle safety course. This course can help walk you through proper riding techniques, safety protocols for the road, and what you can do to avoid accidents. It can also act as an excellent refresher for experienced drivers who are looking to improve their riding.
Get the Legal Help You Need After a Motorcycle Accident: Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
- Answer any questions you have;
- Help you understand your legal options;
- Investigate the motorcycle accident and gather vital evidence needed to help show liability and damages;
- File legal claims and motions accurately and before the statute of limitations expires;
- Handle all the discussions with the insurance company, ensuring your case is treated fairly; and
- Take your case to trial to go after maximum damages, if necessary.
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