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The Most Common Cause of Motorcycle Accidents

There are more than 8.7 million registered motorcycles in the United States, and these smaller vehicles are a common sight on residential roads and highways alike. While motorcyclists enjoy many benefits of their bikes - such as enjoying the weather, convenience, and economic savings - there are also serious risks of accidents and injuries. Over 89,000 motorcyclists report injuries in crashes each year, and about 5,100 motorcyclists are killed on the road. 

In order to stay safe, it is important to stay aware of the most common cause of motorcycle accidents, which is other drivers on the road. The majority of motorcycle crashes happen when another driver collides with a motorcycle, often causing serious injuries. 

What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash

No matter what caused your motorcycle accident, there are steps you can take to ensure you receive compensation if someone else caused the crash. While a crash scene can be chaotic, remember to stay calm and do the following, if you are able:

  • Call 911
  • Allow first responders to examine you and follow recommendations for emergency transportation
  • Speak with law enforcement officers and get contact information from witnesses
  • Seek a medical evaluation even if you did not require an ambulance ride
  • Consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer about your rights as soon as possible

Driver Negligence

Well over half of motorcycle accidents involved a collision with a motor vehicle. There are many different reasons why drivers might crash into a motorcyclist, including the following:

  • Distracted driving - Motorcycles are more difficult to notice on the road, as drivers are generally keeping their eyes out for larger vehicles. When a driver is distracted in any way, the chances lessen that they will notice a motorcyclist. Distracted driving has become an epidemic, and it has made the roads less safe for motorcyclists.
  • Speeding - There is no question that many drivers are in a hurry. One way that drivers try to get to a destination faster is by exceeding the posted speed limit or driving too fast for traffic or weather conditions. When a driver is speeding, it is much more likely they might lose control and more difficult to avoid crashing into a motorcyclist.
  • Failing to yield - Motorcyclists are allowed to share the road with larger vehicles, and drivers must yield to motorcycles just as they would yield to other drivers. Often, drivers fail to yield to motorcycles when changing lanes, merging, making left turns, and more, which can result in collisions. 
  • Impaired driving - Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is dangerous for all motorists on the road, and motorcyclists are certainly no exception. Impaired drivers are less likely to stay focused on the road and notice motorcyclists in their path. 
  • Aggressive driving - Some drivers are simply impatient, and they allow their impatience to escalate into aggressive driving. All aggressive driving behaviors are dangerous for motorcyclists, including excessive speeding, cutting off a motorcycle, tailgating, threatening a motorcyclist, and more.

These are only some of the many types of driver negligence that can cause collisions and devastating injuries to motorcyclists. 


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