Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

As with other motor vehicle accidents, there are many factors that can play a significant role in a motorcycle accident. A motorcycle's crashworthiness is always a factor in these accidents. Its crashworthiness is its ability to withstand colliding with another motor vehicle and yielding little injury to the cyclist. Since cyclists are mostly unprotected except for the gear they wear, a motorcycle's crashworthiness is very low compared to other vehicles. This makes other factors, such as driver irresponsibility and poor road and weather conditions, a larger concern in motorcycle accidents.

Driver irresponsibility

A majority of motorcycle accidents involve another motor vehicle, so driver irresponsibility actually goes both ways. Since automobile drivers are more protected inside their vehicles than a cyclist, it is the driver's responsibility to watch out for the cyclist. Inattentiveness can lead to a driver causing an accident with someone on a motorcycle.

On the other hand, cyclists must also be keenly aware of traffic laws and obey them accordingly. Cyclists can help prevent accidents by adhering to traffic laws, riding only during the daytime and in ideal conditions and being visible to other drivers.

Poor road and weather conditions

Poor road and weather conditions have a much different effect on cyclists than regular motor vehicle drivers. Inclement weather can be a nuisance to someone inside a car, but it can turn deadly to a person on a motorcycle. Since cyclists are exposed to wind, rain and other weather conditions, these factors become even more important when addressing motorcycle safety. If weather conditions deteriorate, the safest thing a cyclist can do is pull over and wait until the weather improves.

Road conditions also affect cyclists differently than regular drivers. Slick or bumpy roads and potholes all pose a major risk to cyclists since they are offered little protection on their motorcycles. Cyclists should stay alert of the road conditions and give themselves extra time when driving on unfamiliar roads.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be eligible for compensation. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer today to examine your rights and see if you have a claim.