Riding a motorcycle can be thrilling but also dangerous if proper precautions are not taken – in 2022, 6,218 motorcyclists died in accidents, which is 15% of all traffic fatalities.
Motorcycle accidents account for a disproportionate number of fatalities on the road. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help victims understand their rights and pursue compensation after an accident, but being aware of the common types of motorcycle accidents and how to avoid them can help keep riders safe.
Here are 10 of the most common motorcycle accidents and tips on how to prevent them.
Article Contents
1. Sudden Stop Accidents
A common accident occurs when a motorcycle runs into the back of a stopped car. The motorcyclist misjudges the distance and isn’t able to stop in time.’
To avoid this, motorcyclists should keep a safe following distance and watch for brake lights. Be ready to stop or swerve suddenly if needed.
2. Intersection Accidents
Intersections, especially four-way stops, are high risk areas for motorcycle accidents. 20% of all accidents happen at intersections. Cars may fail to yield or see an oncoming motorcycle.
Riders should slow down and cover brakes when approaching intersections. Make eye contact with other drivers and be prepared to take evasive action. Assume other vehicles don’t see you.
3. Left Turn Motorcycle Accidents
Left turn accidents happen when an oncoming vehicle turns left in front of the motorcyclist. Avoiding this comes down to defensive riding.
Watch oncoming cars closely and slow down when you anticipate they may turn. Cover your brakes and horns so you can react quickly.
4. Lane Change Accidents
Drivers often fail to check their blind spot before changing lanes and sideswipe motorcycles, which is why there are around 530,000 lane change crashes each year.
To avoid this, riders should avoid lingering in blind spots and always ensure drivers see them before passing. Get in front of or behind cars quickly. Also, wear bright clothing to be more visible.
5. Road Hazards
Potholes, debris, railroad tracks and other road hazards can cause loss of control accidents.
Scan ahead for hazards and go around them at safe speeds with space to spare. Avoid sudden braking or swerving when possible.
6. Loss of Control Accidents
Riders can lose control through excessive speed, improper braking or lack of skill. Don’t ride beyond your personal skill level or the conditions.
Take advanced riding courses and start on smaller bikes to build skills. Always ride at safe speeds for the conditions.
7. Impaired Riding Motorcycle Accidents
The Nashville motorcycle accident attorneys at Labrum Law Firm emphasize that drunk riding is one of the most dangerous decisions a motorcyclist can make.
‘We’ve seen too many tragic cases where alcohol played a role—29% of motorcycle accident fatalities involve a drunk rider,’ they explain.
‘Never drink and ride. And it’s not just alcohol—riding while overly tired or on medications that slow reflexes can be just as dangerous. Any form of impairment significantly raises the risk of an accident.
8. Aggressive Driving Accidents
Weaving through traffic, following too closely or speeding can lead to accidents. Drive courteously, don’t take foolish risks and avoid engaging with aggressive drivers. Safe riding requires patience and focus.
9. Distracted Riding Accidents
Texting, eating or taking your eyes off the road while riding is hazardous. In 2022, 3,308 riders died in distracted driving accidents.
Avoid any unnecessary distractions and keep your eyes and mind focused on the road. Pull over in a safe area if you need to text or adjust gear.
10. Bad Weather Accidents
Rain, fog, wind and other weather can impair traction and visibility for riders. When bad weather strikes, slow down and increase following distance.
Avoid riding in the worst conditions or pull over until it improves. Take extra precautions like using fog lights in poor visibility.
The Right Gear and Motorcycle Maintenance
Beyond riding techniques, the right gear and motorcycle maintenance play crucial roles in accident prevention. Always wear a Department of Transportation (DOT) approved helmet.
A helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries, a significant cause of fatalities in motorcycle accidents.
Additional, protective gear such as armored jackets, gloves, and riding boots provide essential protection in a crash.
Regular maintenance is equally important. Ensure tires are properly inflated and have sufficient tread, brakes are functioning correctly, and all lights are working.
A well maintained motorcycle is more predictable and responsive, reducing the risk of accidents caused by mechanical failure.
Continually improving riding skills and avoiding impairment or distractions also keeps motorcyclists safe on the roads.
