The freedom of the road and open-air nature are what make motorcycle rides so thrilling. Regrettably, it leaves motorcyclists prone to getting seriously injured during the accident. Motorcycle accidents, although not unavoidably more frequent than other types of collisions, are more likely to cause serious injury or even death.
What is the primary cause of motorcycle crashes?
There are many that we will discuss in this article. Listed below are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents.
A Car Turns Left in Front of You
It is the most common motorcycle accident. A motorist fails to see you or judges your bike speed wrongly, turning in front of you at an intersection. According to the NHTSA (short for National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), motorcycle crashes account for 42% of all accidents involving a motorcycle and car.
Usually, the turning car hits the bike when it is:
- Passing the car
- Going straight through an intersection
- Trying to overtake the car
These types of collisions are not uncommon between two cars. However, the small size of the motorcycle makes it less visible to the turning car.
Visibility
Factors like low light conditions, inconspicuous safety gear, and bad weather can cause an accident caused by poor visibility. Even in high visibility and completely clear conditions, stringent vehicle safety regulations signify that cars have thick A-pillars and higher beltlines – all of these can impact the visibility of the driver.
Motorists Failing to Yield to Motorcycle Riders
This can happen in parking lots, exits or entrances, and highway ramps. The failure to yield is also caused when the driver does not take the time to spot the motorcyclist. When hurdles like parked cars, bushes, or buildings are present, it can result in the driver of a car failing to yield.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Debris, potholes, crumbling pavement, and a lack of crucial signals as well as signs can increase the chances of a motorcyclist to lose control of his or her vehicle.
A Car Hits You From Behind
You come to a halt a crosswalk, a stop sign, or an intersection when the driver behind fails to see you. As a result, he or she plows into you at high speed. A “fender bender” – the most common car accident – can lead to the death of a motorcyclist.
Driving Under the Influence
Drivers who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs cause accidents. They may face civil and criminal liability.
Motorcycle Defects
The manufacturer of an inadequately designed or manufactured part can be held accountable for any injuries or deaths resulting from the use of the substandard part.
There is no doubt that riding a motorcycle is unsafe. However, bikes enable you to make use of the most effective and best tools to keep from crashing into another vehicle – a car or bike. According to motorcycle accident statistics 2019, the fatality rate for motorcycles is 27 times higher than passenger cars.
If you or someone you know has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Motorcycle Accident Attorney Orange County for a free evaluation.
