Motorcycle accidents can happen in the blink of an eye. Every day, riders face risks on the road that can lead to serious injuries or even death. While riding motorcycles offers freedom and excitement, it’s also important to recognize the dangers that come with it. Many accidents occur due to a handful of common factors, and understanding these can help riders and vehicle drivers alike stay safer on the road.
The causes of motorcycle accidents vary, from sudden lane changes by cars to poor road conditions. Some lead to minor road rash injuries, while others result in catastrophic injuries or even fatal accidents. By knowing the most common causes and how to prevent them, motorcycle operators can take proactive steps to protect themselves.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 most common causes of motorcycle accidents and how an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you in case you become a victim of any of these accidents.
1. Left-Hand Turns by Other Vehicles
One of the most common scenarios leading to a motorcycle accident involves other vehicles making left-hand turns. These accidents represent a staggering 42% of all motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle. Often, car drivers misjudge the speed of an approaching motorcycle, leading to devastating motorcycle accident injuries for motorcycle accident victims. This issue is further worsens in low-light conditions where visibility is compromised.
Motorcycle riders must stay alert at intersections where left-hand turns are frequent. Drivers often fail to yield to oncoming motorcycles because they don’t see them. Typically, the driver making the left turn is found at fault in such cases. Unfortunately, these collisions often result in head-on impacts, which can be particularly severe.
Motorcyclists should anticipate situations where vehicles might make left turns and position themselves to enhance visibility. Awareness of traffic signals and potential blind spots can also help evade these dangers.
2. Speeding
Speed can be a thrill, but it’s also one of the most significant contributors to motorcycle accidents. Excessive speed not only increases the likelihood of an accident but also the severity of the injuries sustained. Statistics show that speeding was a factor in 33% of motorcycle fatalities in 2021.
When a motorcycle rider speeds, their reaction time is significantly reduced, making it harder to respond to sudden hazards. Moreover, handling a motorcycle at high speeds is inherently more challenging, particularly during emergency maneuvers. The greater the speed, the more severe the crash is due to the higher impact forces.
Adhere to speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions. While speeding might save a few minutes, it significantly increases the risk of a fatal accident. Riding at a manageable speed helps maintain control and react promptly to unexpected obstacles.
3. Lane Splitting
Lane splitting, or riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, is a contentious practice in the motorcycle community. It can be dangerous, as most car drivers don’t expect motorcycles to share lanes, leading to potential accidents.
Even at low speeds, lane splitting can result in severe injuries due to the narrow space available for maneuvering. Motorcycles are more susceptible to blind spots, making them vulnerable when other vehicles change lanes unexpectedly. Additionally, lane splitting can increase the chances of a left-turn accident, as drivers may not anticipate a motorcycle’s movement.
Motorcyclists should avoid lane splitting whenever possible. If necessary, split lanes at a safe speed and remain highly alert to other vehicles’ movements. Assume you are in a driver’s blind spot and position yourself for maximum visibility.
4. Car Doors Opening
Dooring accidents occur when a parked car door is suddenly opened into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. This can be particularly hazardous as the collision is often unavoidable, leading to the motorcyclist being thrown from their bike.
Motorcyclists should avoid parked cars and passenger vehicles to reduce the risk of dooring accidents. Car drivers and passengers should also check their surroundings before opening doors. Careful monitoring significantly reduces the likelihood of these encounters.
5. Sudden Stops
Other vehicles’ sudden stops can lead to rear-end collisions, which are especially dangerous for motorcyclists who lack a car’s protective frame. When a driver unexpectedly brakes, it can create a chain reaction, particularly in heavy traffic.
Motorcyclists should maintain a reasonable speed and keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front to minimize risk. Anticipating sudden stops and being prepared to react can help prevent these accidents and ensure safer riding.
6. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a significant contributor to motorcycle accidents, accounting for 41% of such incidents. Common distractions include:
- Texting
- Adjusting the radio
- Eating
- Talking on the phone.
These activities reduce a driver’s reaction time and focus, increasing the risk of accidents for motorcycle riders.
Motorcyclists can enhance their safety by wearing bright clothing and using daytime running lights to increase visibility. Communicating their intentions with hand signals or horn blasts can also alert distracted drivers to their presence. Additionally, motorcyclists should always assume they are in a driver’s blind spot and position themselves to be seen.
Practicing defensive driving and maintaining a safe distance helps motorcyclists reduce the risk of accidents caused by distracted drivers. Vigilance and anticipating other motorists’ actions are important for avoiding danger on the road.
7. Dangerous Road
Poorly maintained roads pose a significant risk to motorcycle riders. These include:
- Bumpy roads
- Potholes
- Loose gravel
Hitting a pothole or encountering loose sand during a turn can cause the motorcycle to slip, potentially resulting in serious injuries.
Motorcyclists should be cautious in areas with poor road conditions and watch for debris like fallen branches or broken glass. Avoiding these hazards and adjusting riding style to road conditions can help prevent accidents and ensure a safer ride.
8. Inexperienced Riders
Inexperience is a significant factor in many motorcycle accidents. Riders with less than five months of experience are involved in more than half of such incidents. Young riders, particularly those aged between 16 and 24, are at a higher risk of accidents due to their lack of riding experience and ability to judge distances accurately.
New motorcyclists should practice defensive driving and choose a motorcycle size suitable for their skill level. Continuous learning and gaining experience help improve skills and reduce the risk of accidents.
9. Impaired Driving
Impaired driving due to alcohol or drug use is a leading cause of fatal motorcycle accidents. In 2021, 29% of riders who died in motorcycle accidents were under the influence of alcohol. Impaired judgment and decision-making significantly affect a rider’s ability to operate a motorcycle safely.
Motorcyclists must avoid riding under the influence to prevent accidents and ensure road safety. Understanding the severe consequences of impaired driving helps reduce these tragic incidents.
10. Motorcycle Defects
Mechanical failures and defects in motorcycles can lead to severe accidents, including fatal crashes. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent accidents caused by faulty brakes, poorly inflated tires, or other mechanical issues. Design or manufacturing defects can also result in significant injuries and damages.
Performing a quick pre-ride check of critical components like brakes, tires, and lights ensures your motorcycle is in safe operating condition. Although less than 5% of motorcycle accidents are due to mechanical issues, regular maintenance can prevent these incidents.
Protect Your Rights with Legal Support for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Las Vegas
By staying vigilant and practicing defensive driving, riders can significantly reduce their risk of motorcycle accidents. For those who have been involved in a motorcycle crash, getting legal support is essential, especially when dealing with head injuries or other serious harm.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Las Vegas, THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys are here to help. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers understand the dangers riders face and are ready to fight for your rights. From dealing with other drivers’ negligence to managing critical cases of fatal injuries, we are here for you.
Don’t wait—schedule a consultation with a trusted motorcycle accident lawyer in Las Vegas today to protect your rights and start your recovery.
