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6 Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

In Automotive
May 31, 2021
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Does the idea of traveling on the open road make you smile with joy? Are you thinking of purchasing a motorcycle but worry about your safety?

Motorcycle sales have risen by more than thirty-seven percent in the US compared to this exact time last year. This makes sense when you realize that being outdoors on your motorcycle can improve your mental health, boost your mood, and relieve stress.

If you would like advice on how you can stay safe on your motorcycle, you have come to the right place! Use our guide to learn about the different causes of motorcycle accidents and what you can do to prevent them.

Left-Hand Turns

The vast majority of motorcycle accidents take place when a car is making a left-hand turn. Intersections are dangerous, but when you factor in the motorcycle’s smaller size, it can put your bike in a vehicle’s blind spot.

Make sure that you remain on the lookout for any drivers in this scenario and drive your bike with caution.

Drinking and Driving

Another common cause of motorcycle and auto accidents is drinking and driving. Alcohol is known to have an impact on coordination and significantly slow down reaction times. This can lead to impaired judgment whether you are operating a motorcycle or a vehicle.

Make sure that you are not driving while intoxicated and be aware of drunk drivers on the road.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting occurs when a car or motorcycle is driving between two lanes. This is an action used when trying to avoid traffic resulting from stopped or slow-moving vehicles.

If you find yourself between two lanes, you need to remain extra vigilant because you are much closer to a car than if you were only in one lane. And if a vehicle is lane splitting, it will block the motorcyclist’s path, resulting in an accident. You should try your best to avoid lane splitting.

Road Hazards

Motorcycles are more at risk to experience an accident from road hazards than cars because they are on two wheels instead of four. Due to the smaller size of a motorbike, the following road hazards can cause an accident:

  • construction sites
  • potholes
  • dead animals
  • slick roads

It only takes a moment for a road trip to turn into a dangerous situation. If you are always on the lookout for road hazards, you will be practicing motorcycle safety.

Traveling at High-Speeds

By traveling at speeds higher than the posted speed limit, it creates a higher probability of you losing control of your bike.

Reducing your motorcycle speed allows you to drive defensively, change course when you sense danger ahead in the road, and react without thinking twice.

Not Enough Experience

Another common cause of motorcycle accidents is not having enough experience. You should spend time learning how to ride a bike, gauge road conditions, and avoid motorcycle accident causes.

Do not make the mistake of getting on the road before you are ready. This can lead to an accident.

Steps to Take After an Accident

If you have suffered from injuries you received from being involved in a motorcycle accident, there are step-by-step instructions you should take. Check it out here. The first step you will notice is that you should seek help immediately from the nearest hospital.

In addition, you should seek help from a lawyer specializing in motorcycle accidents. Search online using the keywords motorcycle accident lawyer near me help’. You will find an attorney who can determine if you are entitled to any compensation.

Prevent the Main Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Staying safe on your bike is possible! Our guide will empower you with all you need to know to prevent the main causes of motorcycle accidents and avoid a crash. By following these steps closely, you will be on your way to enjoying your ride off into the sunset!

Did you find this article helpful? For more automotive-related content, make sure to visit the rest of our blog.