Motorcycle accidents can be devastating. Even when a motorcycle is ridden responsibly, other drivers may not be paying attention and cause serious injury or death to the rider. It’s important to understand the common causes of motorcycle accidents in order to avoid them. Let’s take a look at some of the more frequent causes of motorcycle accidents.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist slides between two lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic on the highway. Lane splitting is illegal in most states, including California, where lane splitting was recently banned after lawmakers concluded that it didn’t make the roads any safer for motorcyclists. The reason why lane splitting can be so dangerous is because it gives other drivers less time to react if they see a motorcyclist coming up behind them. In addition, lane splitting can lead to a collision if another driver unexpectedly changes lanes while the motorcyclist is passing by.
Left-Hand Turns
Left-hand turns are one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents due to motorists not being aware of oncoming motorcycles. Many drivers assume that motorcycles will slow down when approaching an intersection and don’t check for them before turning left—which can result in tragic consequences for riders who are caught unaware. To avoid this type of accident, it’s best for riders to stay alert and use caution when approaching intersections with left-hand turns.
Road Hazards
Road hazards such as potholes, slick roads, debris, and speed bumps are all potential dangers for motorcyclists who are not paying attention or don’t have enough experience operating their bike safely. To mitigate these risks, riders should always use caution when navigating roads with known hazards and try to keep their speed below posted limits in order to give themselves enough time to react should they encounter something unexpected on the road ahead.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help riders stay safe on the road and prevent unnecessary injuries or fatalities caused by these types of collisions. While there is no way to guarantee your safety while riding a motorcycle, exercising caution and staying aware can go a long way towards avoiding potentially dangerous situations on the road ahead. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to another driver’s negligence, contact an experienced attorney who can help you get compensation for your injuries and losses suffered as a result.
