Motorcycle riders face many road hazards. Some are shared with other motorists, while others are unique to motorcycle riders. Motorcycles have a smaller profile than other vehicles and are more difficult for other drivers to see. They also have fewer safety features and lack the protection larger vehicles provide.
People involved in a motorcycle accident are more likely to suffer serious, even fatal injuries. If you were injured or someone you love was killed in a motorcycle accident, a motorcycle accident lawyer at The Lebedevitch Law Firm, LLC, can help. We will protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact The Lebedevitch Law Firm to schedule a free, no-obligation appointment to discuss your situation and how we can help.
Because motorcycles are more difficult for other motorists to see and offer less protection than other vehicles, motorcycle riders must be particularly attuned to potential hazards to avoid being hurt in a motorcycle crash. Knowing the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help riders stay safe by avoiding hazards on the road.
Riding above the posted speed limit reduces the rider’s reaction time in the event of an unexpected road hazard or another vehicle. It also increases the severity of any injuries the rider might sustain if they are involved in a motorcycle crash. Additionally, riding above the posted speed limit makes it more difficult for other drivers to judge the motorcycle’s speed, which can increase the likelihood of a collision.
Using alcohol or drugs before riding is a major cause of motorcycle accidents. Being intoxicated while operating any motor vehicle increases the risk of being hurt in an accident. That is even more true when riding a motorcycle.
Operating a motorcycle requires coordination, quick reaction time, and sound decision-making skills, all of which are hindered when someone rides while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Avoiding riding while under the influence can significantly decrease the risk of being involved in a serious, even fatal accident.
“Dooring” occurs when a driver or passenger opens a vehicle door without looking to see if a motorcycle is approaching. When the car door opens, the motorcycle rider may not have enough time to avoid a collision.
To prevent open-door accidents, vehicle drivers and passengers must be aware of their surroundings and be on the lookout for oncoming motorcycles. Motorcyclists can reduce the risk of being hurt in an open-door accident by avoiding parked vehicles whenever possible.
Many drivers who strike motorcycle riders later claim they did not see the bike. Drivers may not see motorcycles due to driver distraction, because they have poor depth perception and do not accurately judge the speed of the motorcycle, or because of the motorcycle’s smaller profile. When a car turns in front of them, motorcyclists often do not have enough time to react and crash into the car. These accidents can cause serious, even fatal injuries.
Riders can avoid left turn accidents by riding within the speed limit and being aware of oncoming traffic. Drivers must do their part and should signal their intention to turn well in advance, remain alert, and closely check lanes of oncoming traffic.
Lane splitting occurs when a motorcycle rides between lanes of traffic or tries to share a lane with another vehicle. Motorcycle riders can reduce the likelihood of a serious accident by avoiding lane splitting.
An unsafe lane change occurs when a driver changes lanes and crashes into a vehicle already occupying it, or when a motorist changes lanes and creates a dangerous situation for other drivers. To avoid unsafe lane changes, all motorists should:
Drivers should remember that it can be difficult to see a motorcycle during a lane change.
Motorcyclists tend to swerve when a vehicle suddenly stops in front of them, which can cause the motorcycle to skid, overturn, or hit other vehicles. A sudden stop can cause a chain reaction and cause serious injuries or fatalities to multiple drivers. Motorcycle riders should be sure to maintain an assured clear distance ahead to avoid these types of collisions and decrease the risk of being injured if the vehicle in front of them stops suddenly.
Some road conditions that the driver of a car might not even notice can cause serious injuries or even be fatal for a motorcyclist. Road conditions that can be dangerous for motorcycle riders include:
In most cases, government entities are responsible for addressing road hazards once they have been made aware of them. Nonetheless, car drivers and motorcyclists should be aware of dangerous road conditions and take precautions to avoid causing an accident.
Improper cornering occurs when a motorcycle rider fails to correctly navigate a turn. This can be caused by excessive speed, misjudging the curve, or not leaning the motorcycle appropriately. A motorcyclist who does not correctly navigate a curve can lose control and cause a crash.
Improper cornering accidents are particularly dangerous on rural roads with sharp turns and limited visibility. To avoid an accident caused by improper cornering, motorcycle riders should adjust their speed to safely navigate the turn without losing control.
Statistically, motorcycle riders with less than two years of experience are at increased risk of being involved in a serious collision. Meanwhile, inexperienced car drivers are more likely not to notice motorcycles or to misestimate their speed. Drivers and motorcycle riders should maintain a high level of awareness to prevent accidents.
Understanding the causes of motorcycle accidents can help riders and drivers minimize risk and avoid serious injuries. In addition, riders should protect themselves by wearing appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, to reduce the likelihood of being seriously injured in a motorcycle accident.
If you were injured or a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, The Lebedevitch Law Firm can help.
Contact our law office today to schedule a free and confidential appointment to discuss your situation and how we can help.
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