Top Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Regardless of the precautions that motorcyclists take, reckless drivers, speeding drivers, distracted drivers, and drunk drivers put motorcyclists at an increased risk for crashing. Motorcyclists can prepare for the dangerous situations they face while riding by knowing the common accident causes.

Speeding

Speeding accounts for a large percentage of crashes. Drivers in passenger vehicles are often looking out for cars or trucks when driving. Therefore, a driver may overlook a motorcycle. When a driver is going too fast, he or she has reduced reaction time to prevent an accident when the motorcycle comes into view.

Distracted Driving

Inattentive driving is a common cause of motorcycle accidents. Drivers who are distracted by their cell phone, in-car infotainment system, or other passengers can fail to see smaller motorcycles before making a lane change or turn, contributing to motorcycle accidents.

Unsafe Changing of Lanes

Drivers risk colliding with motorcyclists when they fail to thoroughly check their blind spots and mirrors when turning or merging into other lanes. Many drivers cause motorcycle accidents by failing to use their signals when changing lanes or making a turn.

Drunk Driving

In 2018, 27% of the fatal crashes in Illinois involved alcohol. Drivers under the influence of alcohol tend to have impaired judgment, coordination, and reaction times. They may fail to look out for motorcycles at intersections, make a right-of-way error, or misjudge a motorcycle’s path or speed, putting riders at risk of crashing.

Following Too Closely

Riders have to stop suddenly or swerve to avoid debris, potholes, and other obstacles. Rear-end collisions can occur when a driver follows a motorcycle too closely.

Motorcycle Defects

Mechanical defects also cause motorcycle crashes. An accident can occur because of brake failure, defective wheels, or gear problems. The manufacturer of the defective part or a negligent mechanic can be held liable for such an accident.

Many hazards for motorcycle riders are from drivers. As a result, motorcyclists have to be hyperaware of their surroundings. When they are involved in accidents because of the negligence of others, riders should pursue legal action. The injuries suffered can be expensive to treat and may result in long-term care or disability. Additionally, insurance companies usually aim to avoid paying anything or pay the minimum amount possible to resolve the injury claims. A personal injury lawyer can help riders recover fair compensation for their accident.