What Are the Main Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents often involve another vehicle, but they also occur in different situations. Motorcycles are not as visible as a car, so they are particularly susceptible to road hazards. For example, a driver who fails to yield can cause an accident. Another common cause of motorcycle accidents is speeding.
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Inexperience
New motorcycle riders are more susceptible to accidents because of their lack of experience. Although many principles of riding a motorcycle are similar to those of a bicycle, the motorcycle’s speed, weight, and transmission can be intimidating for a new rider. It can take weeks or even months to learn how to ride a motorcycle properly and not crash.
Inattention
Almost half of all motorcycle accidents result from a car that fails to recognize a motorcycle. Drivers who are distracted or talking on the phone do not see the motorcycle and may hit it without realizing it. They also fail to notice changing traffic conditions and traffic signals. Distracted driving has become a major problem due to the widespread use of cell phones. Other contributing factors in motorcycle accidents include speeding and alcohol use. Inattentive drivers are also responsible for numerous crashes, which often end in injuries or ejections.
Alcohol
The use of alcohol is one of the main causes of motorcycle accidents. It impairs judgment and reaction times, and the consequences can be disastrous. Moreover, it makes it difficult to recognize other drivers. A study found that nearly 40 percent of motorcycle accident fatalities were caused by intoxicated drivers. Consequently, it is crucial to drive safely and avoid drinking and riding.
Turning left in front of a motorcycle
One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is a passenger vehicle making a careless left turn in front of a motorcycle. About forty percent of motorcycle crashes involve a passenger vehicle making a left turn directly into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. As a result, it is crucial to always do a head check before making a left turn.
Road hazards
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by road hazards, such as loose objects on the road. The wheels on motorcycles tend to spin out of control in certain situations, and hitting a loose object will cause a motorcycle to crash. This can cause severe injuries, and can even cause death. To avoid this, motorcyclists should slow down and look out for road hazards before they approach.
Weather
Aside from negligence by motor vehicle drivers, weather can be a major contributing factor in motorcycle accidents. Rain and snow can make roads slippery and hide road defects, making motorcycle riders more vulnerable to injury.