Motorcycle accidents unfortunately cause injuries and fatalities at a much higher rate than accidents caused by any other road vehicle. Still, if you are the owner of a motorcycle, it is important to take what precautions that you can to ensure your own safety including understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents. Motorcyclists deserve to have the same sense of safety as other motorists.
What To Do In The Event Of A Motorcycle Accident
Firstly, what should you do if a motorcycle accident occurs? The initial step is to get out of any potentially dangerous situation (i.e. get out of the road and away from any unsafe equipment). Then call the police immediately and report any injuries you and the other party sustained. Next, gather as much information you can from the other party and from any witnesses. This includes the other involved party’s phone number, name, email address, and car insurance information. Take pictures of the incident if possible. Lastly, get in contact with an attorney before giving your opinion or admitting anything about the accident.
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Because motorcycles are on the road these days more than ever, there is much more potentiality for motorcycle accidents. Unfortunately, most of the common causes of accidents are due to other cars’ negligence. However, there are certainly occurrences where the motorcyclist is at fault.
Inability to See
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is another vehicle’s inability to see a motorcyclist on the road. Because motorcycles are smaller, cars who are not paying strict attention to their surroundings can miss a motorcycle and cause a collision.
Reckless Driving
Another one of the common causes of motorcycle accidents is reckless driving. Whether recklessness can be attributed to the motorcycle driver or to another vehicle, speeding, weaving in and out of other cars, and drowsy driving can all be attributed to motorcycle accidents. Motorcyclists will also sometimes drive in between two cars on the line separating two lanes, which can be dangerous and can cause serious injuries or death in the event of an accident.
Drunk Driving
Driving under the influence is also a big reason for motorcycle accidents. If the at-fault party was driving drunk, there can be even more serious consequences under the law.
Dangerous Areas
A specific area that is dangerous for motorcyclists is in intersections. Intersections are also a common spot for other vehicle accidents. Where a car is turning left, they can hit into a motorcyclist that is driving through the intersection, causing an accident. Whichever vehicle was turning left will often be the one at fault unless the other vehicle was driving recklessly or in the wrong lane. When a motorcycle is going around a corner, there is also a chance of an accident. This is especially true if the road is slippery or another vehicle does not see the motorcycle as they turn the corner.
Hazardous Road Conditions
A cause of motorcycle accidents that is not directly associated with other cars is hazardous road conditions. Rain, snow, and pavement make for a dangerous combination for any vehicle but for a motorcycle, which is intrinsically less stable, bad weather conditions can be catastrophic. Loose gravel and objects on the road can also be very risky for motorcycles as well.
Do You Need A Personal Injury Attorney?
If you were in a motorcycle accident, then you may be entitled to compensation. Here at LeBaron & Jensen we have several experienced personal injury attorneys who are ready to help you fight for your case. If you have any more questions regarding motorcycle accidents or would like to schedule a free case review, contact us today.
