According to the Federal Highway Administration, a 2019 motorcycle crash causation study found that the most common cause of motorcycle accidents was operator error, whether on the part of the motorcyclist or the other driver. Additional contributing factors included a motorcyclist’s inexperience and the inherent dangers associated with the lack of protection between the rider, other vehicles, and the environment. Another motorcycle crash causation study showed that more than twice the number of rider fatalities occurred in 2009 than in 1997.
Drivers need to exercise caution when driving on America’s roadways. There are many risk factors associated with the causes of motorcycle crashes. When they least expect it, a driver could make one false turn, and a motorcyclist could lose their life. Other common causes of motorcycle accidents include, but are not limited to:
- Speeding
- Intoxicated driving
- Left-turn accidents, either because the driver did not see the motorcyclist or vice versa
- Sudden stops
- Unsafe lane changes by either the driver or the motorcyclist
- Hazardous road conditions
- Vehicle failure or malfunction
- And more
The Importance of Motorcycle Safety
Motorcycling, for many people, is a way of life. Keeping these riders safe means getting riders home to their families at night. It is hard to describe the connection an experienced rider feels with their bike but that feeling is something motorcyclists do not want to lose—and they should not have to. All permitted drivers share America’s roadways, and motorcyclists have every right to traverse our beautiful country.
As these motorcycle riders are naturally more vulnerable to accidents than other vehicle drivers, drivers should give special attention when motorcyclists are on the roadways. Though some accidents occur because the rider failed to perform proper safety procedures while riding, another common cause of motorcycle accidents is motorists not keeping an eye out for cyclists. Drivers thinking twice about their next move can save countless cyclists from injury and even death.
Some Common Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can be extremely harmful, with injuries including broken bones, abrasions or road rash, torn ligaments, head injuries, and even death, just to name a few. Because there is no natural barrier between the rider and the world around them, their body can be completely left up to the mercy of the elements. That is why motorcycle accidents are so scary, and that is why people need to be aware of safety procedures.
The rate of speed at which both parties were driving can have a significant impact on the amount of damage that results from a motorcycle accident. For example, if a bike is hit from behind at a stoplight at a high rate of speed, the motorcyclist’s injuries may be much more severe than if they laid their bike down due to poor weather conditions. The extent of the injuries involved in the accident revolves around both parties doing their part to keep the roadways safe.
Further, safety measures can help prevent these common causes of motorcycle accidents from happening in the first place or lessen their devastating effects. These practices for better roadway safety include:
- Checking blind spots and looking both ways when crossing streets
- Speeding up to meet the flow of traffic when merging
- Always using a designated driver
- Meeting the necessary safety needs when weather changes or road conditions worsen
- Always wearing a helmet when riding your motorcycle
- Using proper turn signals
- And more
A Team of Lawyers by Your Side
At the Morris Bart law firm, our team of personal injury attorneys has worked with countless clients involved in motorcycle accidents over the years. Our legal team knows the common cause of motorcycle accidents. Whether you were at fault or not, our representatives would love to speak with you so we can find out how to help. Many accidents are simply caused by drivers not being attentive enough. However, this is no excuse. When another driver puts you in harm’s way, they should be held accountable for their actions and help you recover damages for your pain and suffering.
Our attorneys are here to protect your right to compensation. The last thing you want to worry about when you have suffered injuries in an accident is how you are going to make ends meet. We will help prove who was truly at fault in your accident so you can move on with the rest of your life. To learn more about our services, call today at (800) 537-8185 for your free consultation. You are not in this alone.