Motorcycle Accidents Causes

What causes motorcycle accidents?

The answer surprises many people: it is usually the other drivers on the road who cause vehicle accidents with motorcycles. Motorcycles are harder to notice than automobiles and often people either do not see cyclists or simply do not understand the rules about sharing the roads with them. Often, cars will turn in front of motorcycles or run lights and stop signs causing a collision. Some motorists will drive too closely behind a biker. If a sudden stop occurs, the motorcyclist can be severely injured by a rear-end motor vehicle crash.

Motorcyclists are also in danger from road and weather hazards. A motorcyclist has to be very cautious around obstacles or road conditions that a car or truck can take for granted. For example: bad weather, loose gravel, potholes, and strong winds can cause a bike to skid out or crash. Since motorcycles lack the physical protection of a car or truck, the rider is likely to be harmed. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a motorcyclist is 15 times more likely to die in a crash than a passenger in an automobile accident.

Speeding plays its part in motorcycle wrecks as well. It’s an extreme temptation to reach high speeds on a motorcycle. There are some models that can reach upwards to 180 mph. Excessive speed and poor handling of a motorcycle can cause loss of control which may result in the driver being ejected from the bike or may cause a collision with a car or stationary object. The time needed to make important split-second decisions is greatly reduced.

One of the greatest risks to motorcycle riders is lack of safety equipment. In states where motorcycle helmets are not required by law, people who choose to ride without one have a higher risk of injury or death. Boots, gloves, and jackets can also help to prevent broken bones, laceration, and road rash.

If you or someone you love has been the victim of a motorcycle accident, a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer can help ensure that you receive compensation you need to help pay for medical bills, repair costs, lost time at work, as well as pain and suffering.

If you are unsure of which motorcycle accident attorney to choose or do not know who is available in your area, please review our state by state listing of motorcycle accident lawyers and choose your state. If you would like a recommendation of a motorcycle injury attorney, please contact us.