Four Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists need to be aware of the most common causes of accidents.
While motorcycle accidents occur less frequently than car accidents, they are more likely to result in a serious injury or death. Motorcyclists need to be aware of the most common causes of accidents in order to ensure their safety on the roadways.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 5,290 motorcyclists were killed and 96,000 were injured in accidents along U.S. roads in 2008. Statistically, motorcyclists are about 37 times more likely to die in a traffic crash compared to drivers or passengers of other motor vehicles. The following four factors are most likely to contribute to an accident.
Traffic Violations
When another motorist commits a traffic violation, it can put motorcyclists at risk for an accident. For example, a driver who is following too closely can cause a rear-end collision if traffic stops suddenly. Drivers who change lanes without checking their blind spots can also be responsible for a collision. Drivers who make improper left-hand turns are frequently the source of accidents involving oncoming motorcyclists or riders who were attempting to pass.
Driver Error
Drivers who engage in certain behaviors may also be more likely to contribute to a motorcycle accident. Examples of potentially dangerous driver behavior include driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, texting while driving, driving while extremely tired or driving aggressively. If a driver causes an accident while engaging in one of these behaviors, he or she may be viewed as negligent and be held criminally and civilly liable for their actions.
Unsafe Road Conditions
The roadway itself is full of potential hazards to , including potholes, debris left on the road, construction zones, road signs that are hard to read or are not easily visible, abandoned vehicles, heavy fog or smoke, railroad crossings and damaged or ungraded pavement. In some cases, an accident may be considered the result of negligence if the entity responsible for maintaining it fails to do so.
Mechanical Failure
Before heading out on the highway, it's important to inspect your bike to make sure it's in proper working order. You should also check to make sure your lights are working, your brakes are functioning and your tires are properly inflated. In the event that you experience an equipment malfunction that results in an accident, the manufacturer may be held liable if they were responsible for the defect.
A motorcycle accident can leave you physically, emotionally and financially devastated. If you or a loved one was injured in an accident through no fault of your own, you may be eligible to seek damages for your medical bills, lost wages and pain and suffering. An experienced California motorcycle accident lawyer can guide you in determining whether you have a claim and how to best protect your rights.
Nadrich & Cohen, LLP specializes in representing motorcycle accident victims and their families throughout California. We have office locations in several cities throughout the state, including Fresno, Bakersfield and Sacramento. For more information on filing a motorcycle accident injury claim, call 1-800-718-4658.
