There are few things more exhilarating than driving a motorcycle on a beautiful day along a scenic highway. So many Americans love the adventure of owning and riding a motorcycle that there are clubs and groups of people across the nation that arrange trips together throughout the year. While these scenic drives can be both relaxing and beautiful, drivers need to be incredibly careful as they can turn disastrous in the blink of an eye.
Since motorcycles lack the protective structure cars, trucks, and other larger vehicles have, you are much more vulnerable to severe or fatal injuries if you are to get into an accident. If you happen to love the feeling of being on the open road on a motorcycle, it’s important that you understand the common causes of motorcycle accidents so you can prepare and drive safely.
Unsafe speed
Speeding is one of the leading causes of any auto accident regardless of if you are driving a motorcycle or large truck, but the consequences of an accident while speeding on a motorcycle are the most dangerous. Across the nation this is a huge cause for accidents and in New York State alone this has continually been the greatest contributing factor to crashes. It’s important to remember that the faster you go, the more difficult it is to see and react to other drivers and therefore to avoid a collision. A crash at high speeds also has a much greater impact on you and the vehicle and the results could be deadly.
Reckless driving and lane splitting
Driving a motorcycle is exhilarating but it’s important to remember it does not make you invincible. Some of the top causes of accidents come from people who drive dangerously and aggressively. Lane splitting is another major cause of accidents and it’s the term used when a motorcyclist drives between two lanes of cars. Drivers in traffic are often irritated and make rash moves to try and get ahead. These jerky turns into other lanes can catch a motorcyclist off guard and result in a serious injury. Lane splitting is an easy way to get through traffic, but it is also an easy way to get too close to other vehicles and leave yourself with very little room to prevent a collision if you have a close call.
Limited visibility
Motorcycles are designed for speed and can be incredibly difficult to detect. Limited visibility of motorcycles due to their size can make it challenging for drivers, even extremely attentive ones, to see a motorcycle coming. If you have a driver that isn’t paying attention, chances are they aren’t even looking for motorcycles and it can be easy to get into an accident. Even safe and skilled motorcyclists can’t avoid accidents when other drivers aren’t able to see them.
Unsafe road conditions
We are all familiar with construction on highways and backroads and know that this can create dangerous road conditions. Hazards like potholes, loose gravel, debris, slippery surfaces, and bumpy roads can all make it difficult to navigate these roads, especially for motorcyclists who may find it hard to control their vehicle. Motorcycles are meant to be driven on stable roads which makes these small vehicles more susceptible to crashes on unsafe road conditions.
What to do if you’re in a motorcycle accident
Being in an accident on a motorcycle can be a traumatizing experience and have lasting effects on your body. Consequences of the accident like broken bones, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and more can be life-changing and may result in you needing extensive medical treatment and care. If you or someone you know has been injured in a motorcycle accident you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and more. If your accident happened on or near Long Island, give the North Shore Injury Lawyer a call today at 631-495-9435 to discuss your case.
