Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
15 September 2020
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents and Ways to Prevent Them
Motorcyclists are often overlooked by other vehicles while traveling on the road. Despite following traffic laws and remaining vigilant while riding, motorcyclists can still become victims of serious accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 4,985 motorcyclists were killed in 2018 and 80 percent of motorcycle accidents result in either injury or death. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include excessive speed, distracted drivers, intoxication, sudden stops, and road conditions and hazards. Learn more about these in more detail and who to call when you are ready to file a report.
Excessive Speed
Exceeding the speed limit that is posted on the road is extremely dangerous. When speeding, motorists are often not attentive to their surroundings, including their blind spots. Speeding affects reaction time, thus making it more difficult for a driver to stop, creating a bigger risk for an accident. Higher speeds often cause greater impacts, which results in more severe or even fatal injuries.
Distracted Drivers
Another common cause of motorcycle accidents is distracted drivers. Distracted driving can be characterized as texting, talking on the phone, eating or drinking, adjusting the radio station, looking at a GPS for directions, conversing with other passengers, and more. Drivers who look away from the road for even a few seconds can be responsible for a head-on collision with a motorcyclist.
Intoxication
It is against the law to drive under the influence of alcohol and drugs, yet some drivers still make the decision to get behind the wheel while impaired. Alcohol and drugs can cause a driver’s reflexes to slow down, which can increase the risk of an accident. Additionally, their judgment becomes impaired and they may experience drowsiness.
Sudden Stops
While sudden stops are dangerous for all sharing the road, they are especially dangerous for motorcyclists. If involved in a rear-end accident, a motorcyclist can be ejected from their bike or swerve off the road, suffering from severe injuries that may even prove to be life-threatening.
Road Conditions and Hazards
Lastly, another common cause of motorcycle accidents involves dangerous road conditions and hazards. Rain, snow, wind, and other types of weather can result in accidents among motorcyclists. Road hazards such as uneven roads, debris, animals, fallen objects, and more can cause a motorcyclist to crash.
Get Justice for Motorcycle Accidents by Contacting Davis Law Group
The consequences of a motorcycle accident can be devastating. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident caused by another driver’s negligence, it is important to seek help from someone you can trust. The attorneys at Davis Law Group are experienced in navigating motorcycle accident cases and are committed to holding those accountable for their actions. We will work to ensure fair compensation is received as a result of an injury or wrongful death caused by a motorcycle accident. You can rest assured that we have the knowledge, experience, and resources necessary to provide quality representation. We understand how traumatic this type of incident can be for both the victim and their family and we want to help. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and begin the process toward obtaining justice.