Motorcycle accidents are, unfortunately, a common and devastating occurrence on American roads. In 2020 alone, 5,579 motorcyclists lost their lives, and tens of thousands more were seriously injured [1].
Due to the limited physical protection that motorcycles offer compared to passenger vehicles, most motorcycle accidents lead to moderate to severe injury. Unfortunately, in addition to this, many fatal motorcycle crashes occur yearly, usually in the event of a collision with another vehicle.
Motorcycle accidents are often life-altering, leaving victims with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens from medical expenses and lost wages. By exploring the primary factors under which motorcycle accidents happen and their common locations, we can better grasp the daily risks motorcyclists face.
Additionally, knowing the steps to take after a fatal motorcycle crash and how to pursue a claim is essential for protecting one’s rights and securing fair compensation.
Top Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle accidents happen due to various factors, often stemming from the actions of other drivers, the riders themselves, or external elements like road conditions or mechanical failures. While each accident’s circumstances may differ, several common causes can be identified.
Driver Negligence
One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is driver negligence, particularly on the part of motorists who share the road with motorcyclists. Motorcycles are smaller and more difficult to see than cars, which makes them more vulnerable to being overlooked by drivers who aren’t paying close attention.
Some key aspects of driver negligence include going over the speed limit, reckless driving, failure to yield, and failure to consider blind spots.
Speeding
Excessive speed significantly reduces a driver’s ability to stop in time, especially in poor weather conditions. When speeding drivers encounter motorcyclists, their reduced stopping distance often leads to deadly collisions.
Reckless Driving
Erratic driving behaviors create dangerous situations for motorcyclists, who need more space and time to react. These behaviors include tailgating, weaving between lanes, and sudden lane changes.
Failure to Yield
Many accidents occur at the most dangerous intersections when drivers fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists. This failure often results from distraction, poor judgment, or simply not noticing the motorcycle’s presence.
Blind Spots
Motorcycles can easily disappear into the blind spots of larger vehicles. Drivers who fail to check their blind spots before changing lanes or turning can inadvertently collide with a motorcycle traveling beside them.
Rider Error
While many motorcycle accidents happen due to the actions of other drivers, some result from the motorcyclists’ mistakes. Common rider errors include:
- Lack of experience: New or inexperienced riders may struggle to handle their motorcycles properly, especially in emergencies. They may fail to brake in time, misjudge turns, or lose control on slippery surfaces without sufficient practice.
- Inadequate training: Proper training is essential for motorcyclists to learn the skills necessary for safe riding. Riders who bypass training courses may lack critical knowledge about defensive driving techniques, road awareness, and handling their motorcycle in challenging conditions.
- Overestimating abilities: Some riders may overestimate their skills, particularly when navigating high-speed or high-traffic situations. Overconfidence can lead to risky behavior like speeding, weaving between cars, or lane splitting. These actions, especially lane splitting in areas where it’s illegal or unsafe, can significantly increase the likelihood of a fatal crash.
Road Conditions and Hazards
Unlike car drivers, motorcyclists are highly vulnerable to changes in road conditions. Even minor hazards that pose little risk to cars can have severe consequences for motorcyclists. Common road-related factors that contribute to traffic fatalities include:
- Potholes: A single pothole can cause a deadly collision with other drivers. Because motorcycles have less stable traction than cars, hitting a pothole can result in sudden skidding or tipping.
- Road debris: Objects like loose gravel, fallen branches, or other debris can be particularly hazardous for motorcyclists, who need a smooth, clear surface to maintain control.
- Uneven surfaces: Road construction, poorly maintained roads, or uneven surfaces can disrupt a motorcycle’s balance, leading to fatal crashes.
- Weather conditions: Wet or icy roads reduce traction for all vehicles but pose a heightened risk for motorcycles. Slippery surfaces make it difficult for a motorcycle rider to maintain control, especially when braking or turning.
Defective Motorcycle Parts and Mechanical Failures
Mechanical failures and defects in motorcycle parts can also lead to motorcycle accidents. These issues may arise from faulty manufacturing, improper maintenance, or wear and tear over time. Some examples include:
- Brake failure: A sudden brake malfunction can prevent a rider from stopping in time, leading to a fatal motorcycle accident.
- Tire blowouts: A blowout can cause the rider to lose control of the motorcycle, especially at high speeds.
- Engine or transmission problems: Mechanical issues with the engine or transmission can cause a loss of power, which may result in dangerous situations on the road.
The manufacturer or mechanic may be liable for the damages if a deadly accident occurs due to a defective part or mechanical failure.
Common Locations of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents happen most frequently in certain locations, often where road conditions, traffic patterns, and driver behavior create additional risks for motorcycle riders. Some of the most common locations for motorcycle accidents include:
- Urban areas: Cities and towns often have dense traffic, frequent stops, and numerous intersections, all of which create dangerous conditions for motorcyclists. Due to heavy traffic, drivers in urban areas are more likely to be distracted or fail to see motorcycle riders, leading to rear-end accidents.
- Non-interstate roads: Many accidents, particularly fatal motorcycle accidents, occur on smaller, non-interstate roads where the legal speed limits may be higher and the roads are less maintained. These roads are more likely to have sharp turns, hills, or other obstacles that increase the risk of crashes.
- Two-lane roads: On rural or suburban two-lane roads, many motorcyclists are at a higher risk of being struck by oncoming traffic, especially if drivers attempt to pass other vehicles without noticing the motorcycle.
- Highways and Intersections: While highways generally have fewer intersections, they present their own risks for motorcyclists. High speeds, heavy traffic, and the presence of large vehicles like trucks increase the severity of accidents when they occur.
- Heavy traffic zones: Congested areas and intersections, especially during rush hour, are hazardous for motorcyclists. Drivers frequently change lanes and may not always check for motorcycles. The stop-and-go nature of heavy traffic congestion also increases the chance of rear-end collisions.
Rider awareness is crucial in these high-risk areas. Motorcyclists should stay vigilant, anticipate hazards, and adapt their riding style to specific risks.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, taking the right steps is critical to ensure both your safety and your ability to pursue a legal claim for compensation. If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, here are the immediate actions you should take:
- Ensure your safety: If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic and check yourself and others involved for minor or fatal injuries.
- Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if necessary.
- Gather information: Collect contact information from other drivers, witnesses, and passengers. Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Avoid making statements: Be careful not to admit fault or make statements about the accident, as these could be used against you later.
- Seek medical attention: Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately, even if you feel fine. A medical evaluation is essential for your health and documenting any injuries for your legal claim.
- Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer: An experienced lawyer can help you navigate the claims process, gather evidence, and seek compensation.
Understanding Motorcycle Accident Claims
Motorcycle accident claims can be complex, particularly when catastrophic injuries are involved. Motorcyclists often suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal injuries. The costs of treating these severe injuries can be overwhelming, and victims may face long-term rehabilitation or disability.
A motorcycle accident claim typically involves seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. In some cases, a claim may also include compensation for future medical care and loss of earning capacity.
A skilled attorney can help assess the full extent of your damages and ensure that you secure the maximum compensation available.
Consult a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today!
Most motorcycle crashes happen in the blink of an eye, often due to factors beyond the rider’s control. From driver negligence to hazardous road conditions, the risks motorcyclists face are significant. Understanding the common causes and high-risk locations for minor and fatal motorcycle crashes is essential for your safety.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t face this challenging time alone. You need the legal services of a seasoned law firm to navigate the complexities of your case. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can fight for the compensation you deserve, whether you’re recovering from injuries or seeking justice for a fatal accident.
At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our dedicated team has a proven track record of securing justice and substantial client settlements. Contact us today at (888) 424-5757 for a free consultation or fill out our contact form.
References: [1] Insurance Information Institute