Motorcycles offer a sense of freedom and fun that you cannot replicate in any other way. However, this does come with a risk, as motorcycles are involved in more accidents than cars. Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in the United States.
1. Lane Changing
Motorcycles are much smaller than cars, making it easy for a motorcycle to switch lanes. However, the bike will not be nearly as visible in the next lane. This is especially true when changing lanes in dense traffic or when other vehicles are on either side of the motorcycle. Motorcycle riders must be careful when switching lanes, even if it means waiting until the car next to them has passed to change lanes fully.
2. Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is defined as motorcycle-riding between lanes of traffic to pass other vehicles. Some motorcycle riders feel like this is safer than switching lanes, as they are not crossing the path of other vehicles. However, motorcycle accidents can still occur when motorcycle riders are lane splitting, as they may be hit by other cars. Lane splitting is against the law in many states because it can cause motorcycle accidents, but motorcycle riders still try to do it anyway. Lane splitting is a serious offense in which you will need a motorcycle accident lawyer if you are involved in an accident.
3. Sudden Stop Rear-End
Motorcycles are much smaller than cars, which means that motorcycle riders need to be more careful about sudden stops. Even stopping at a red light can cause motorcycle accidents, as motorcycle riders may not see the vehicle in front of them stopping. Motorcycle riders should keep a safe distance when following behind other cars.
4. High Speeds
Motorcycles are much smaller than cars, which means motorcycle riders have less protection when they are in accidents. This also means that they can reach very high speeds, making it more difficult to stop quickly. These accidents frequently involve head-on collisions. Speeding is a common cause of motorcycle accidents, which can be even more dangerous for the motorcycle rider than for the driver of another vehicle. Motorcycle riders should keep their speed below the limit and stay between lanes whenever possible.
5. Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous for any driver or motorcycle rider. It is important to note that motorcycle accidents can still occur when the other driver is under the influence. This is because other vehicles are larger and are more likely to cause serious injuries when in a collision with a motorcycle.
6. Motorcycle Defects
All types of vehicles must meet certain safety standards, including motorcycles. Sometimes, motorcycle riders may be in accidents due to a defect in the bike, and this is one of the most dangerous causes of motorcycle accidents. If a motorcycle rider is in an accident due to a defect, they may suffer serious injuries.
7. Collision With Parked Car Doors
Motorcycle riders should be careful when passing other vehicles on the road, especially if there is a high traffic volume. It may be difficult to see a stopped car, especially if the rider is speeding and does not have much time to decide. Motorcycle riders need to look out for pedestrians and other vehicles besides a stopped vehicle when passing cars.
Motorcycle riders need to be aware of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents to take the necessary steps to ensure their safety on the road. In case of an accident, they should consider consulting a motorcycle accident lawyer to help them throughout the legal processes involved.
