Motorcycle accidents happen less frequently than that of cars and trucks, however they are more likely to result in serious injury and even death. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) final statistics for 2020 showed 5,579 deaths from motorcycle crashes (these final numbers represent a slight revision from our previous article), compared to 5,044 in 2019, an increase of 11 percent. It is important to be familiar with the most common causes of motorcycle accidents to prevent and avoid them.
Blind spots
Motorcycles are smaller in comparison to other vehicles and most accidents occur due to the motorbikes’ decreased visibility compared to that of cars and trucks. It can be much more difficult to spot motorcycles while merging or changing lanes. Usually, collisions happen while overtaking or at junctures.
The Rear-End Accident
Following a basic rule of driving to maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front of you can prevent motorcycle accidents. Rear end accidents can cause serious injuries or even death as the motorcyclist may be thrown off their bike if the vehicle in front was to stop suddenly.
Left-Hand Turn Accidents
Nearly 42% of all motorcycle accidents occur when cars are making left-hand turns. The turning car can strike the motorcyclist under certain conditions. For example, while attempting to overtake a car, or while going straight through an intersection. Motorcycle accidents may also occur when passing other cars.
Speeding and alcohol use
Speeding and alcohol use places the motorcyclist at a higher risk of accident. Unlike cars and other vehicles, the injuries can be more significant in a motorcycle accident. Motorcycles do not provide much protection to the rider, causing a much higher risk of death or serious injury.
Lane splitting
Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides in between two lanes of stopped or slowly moving cars, usually in traffic jams. Accidents can occur when splitting lanes due to a variety of factors such as:
- Car drivers do not expect a motorcycle passing them in stopped or slow-moving traffic.
- Reduced space for the motorcyclist to maneuver. Close proximity of the cars and the motorcyclist.
As of 2021, only a few states allow lane splitting. If an accident happens when a motorcycle is lane splitting, there’s a good chance the motorcyclist will be found at fault.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions account for more than half of all deaths in motorcycle accidents. Head-on collisions occur when a car strikes a motorcyclist from the front.
Single-Bike Accidents
Motorcycles are susceptible to skidding, sliding, and toppling because of their two wheels and small build. Factors such as poor weather conditions, bad road conditions, curvy streets or uneven pavement are leading cause of these types of accidents.
Contact Motorcycle Accident Attorney at The Reinken Law Firm today
Motorcycle accidents can result in serious consequences, including brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and more. If you or someone you love has been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact The Reinken Law Firm for help. At The Reinken Law Firm, we diligently represent motorcycle accident victims. We handle all cases on a contingency fee basis, so you do not pay us unless we recover for you.