For many, enjoying the open road on a motorcycle is one of life’s greatest pleasures. However, motorcycles are unfortunately prone to accidents, and given the lack of protection that a motorcycle provides compared to an automobile, these accidents are often quite serious. Outlined below are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Avoid these risk factors and you can help ensure that you return home safely after your ride.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Many motorcyclists tend to change lanes more often than automobile drivers, largely due to the ease in which a motorcycle is able to weave around traffic. Ease, however, does not always equate to safety, and unsafe lane changes can lead to serious accidents. Try to avoid weaving through lanes as much as possible and always take the time to thoroughly clear yourself when changing lanes.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting occurs when a motorcycle drives between the lanes in order to pass two vehicles that are side by side in different lanes. While most motorcycles are slim enough to split lanes, this practice is both illegal and highly dangerous. There’s no room for error, and the slightest mistake made by the motorcycle driver or by the drivers of one of the two vehicles being passed can lead to a serious accident.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Road conditions such as potholes or debris in the road are much more likely to cause a motorcycle to lose control if they are hit than an automobile. Likewise, weather-related road conditions such as ice or heavy rain can be quite dangerous for motorcyclists as well. Try to avoid riding a motorcycle in inclement weather and always keep an eye out for road hazards such as potholes or debris in the road.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
Driving a motorcycle under the influence of alcohol is every bit as illegal and as dangerous as driving an automobile under the influence, and given the seriousness of motorcycle accidents, it’s arguably much riskier overall. If you’ve been drinking, never operate your vehicle – whether that vehicle is a motorcycle or not.
Speeding
The speed at which a motorcycle is able to travel at is a big part of their allure. However, if you want to avoid costly fines and deadly accidents, it’s best to keep your motorcycle near or under the speed limit at all times. Even the best motorcycle drivers sometimes lose control at high speeds, and traveling at high speeds reduces the time you have to react to situations such as road hazards or stopped traffic.
Conclusion
With the right amount of caution and attention to safety practices, riding a motorcycle can be a relatively safe and enjoyable hobby. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are sometimes unavoidable and are not the fault of the driver.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to hazardous road conditions, the carelessness of another drive, or any other circumstance that was outside your control, we invite you to contact our offices today.
