Motorcycles are a popular form of transportation. They give the driver a sense of freedom that cannot be experienced in a car and they are fuel-efficient and easier to maintain than a car, making them a perfect vehicle choice for many people. Motorcycles, however, can also be dangerous.
Motorcycle riders understand that they do not have the same physical protections on a motorcycle that they have in a car. Because of this, it is crucial to always wear protective gear and to operate their motorcycles safely.
Although other drivers are always encouraged to look out for motorcycles, many drivers do not. Because of this, motorcyclists should be aware of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents and how they can try to avoid them.
What is the Main Cause of Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents are most often caused by the driver of the other vehicle, not seeing the motorcyclist. It is common for people not to notice a motorcycle because of its size. People have a tendency to only look for larger objects when they are operating their cars.
Of course, there are additional reasons that may cause a car to hit a motorcycle. The driver may be distracted, under the influence, or driving recklessly. Whatever the cause, when a car hits a motorcycle, the results are often devastating for the motorcyclist.
Turning Left – The Most Common Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accident statistics show that the most common cause for a motorcycle accident is when the car is turning left. Over 42 percent of all motorcycle accidents involve a left-turning car.
This type of accident is also the most common type of accident to occur between two cars as well. When an accident occurs when a left turn is being made, it is almost always the fault of the person turning left.
It is very important for motorcycle riders to take extra caution at intersections where left-turn lights are not available. Cars often misjudge the distance or speed of a motorcyclist or do not see them at all. Precaution is the best protection from these types of accidents.
Lane Splitting Florida – Bad Motorcycle Accidents Happen when the Rider Lane Splits
Lane splitting is illegal in most states and for a good reason. Lane splitting is one of the most dangerous things that a motorcyclist can do. Travel lanes on the road are designed to accommodate larger vehicles so that everyone can drive safely on the road. When a smaller car is in the lane, and there is room for a motorcycle to pass between two cars. This, however, is extremely dangerous.
Lane splitting is usually the one way that a motorcycle causes an accident as opposed to having the motorcycle struck by another vehicle. The best and only way to avoid this type of accident is to not lane split – ever.
High-Speed Motorcycle Crash
The worst motorcycle crashes generally involve high-speed events. When either vehicle is traveling at high speed, and a motorcycle accident occurs, the event generally results in a fatality.
It is not unusual for high-speed accidents to involve an intoxicated or distracted driver. Motorcyclists must take extra precautions when operating their motorcycle during the time period from 10 pm to 3 am. These hours have the most high-speed or driving under the influence of accidents for all vehicles than any other time frame of the day.
Corners – A Place For Bad Motorcycle Accidents
Turning corners at higher speeds can be very dangerous for a motorcyclist, especially if you are a newer rider or driving a new motorcycle that you have not become accustomed to the feel of the bike.
Every motorcyclist should follow the “Slow In – Fast Out” rule when entering a curve or corner. By closing down, when you enter a turn, you give yourself the ability to see more obstacles and control the bike better when you are leaning. Once you have cleared the turn, you can speed back up to the speed limit of the road.
How Dangerous Are Motorcycles?
When operated properly, motorcycles are just as safe to operate as a car or truck. However, since there is no physical protection for the driver like in an enclosed vehicle, it is important that motorcyclists consider the following:
- Always wear a helmet. Regardless of helmet laws in your area, wearing a helmet can make the difference in surviving a motorcycle accident or not. Make sure that your helmet is DOT certified for the best protection.
- Always wear closed-toed shoes. Preferably leather shoes or boots to give you the most protection.
- Wear a jacket or long sleeves at all times and avoid shorts. You want to protect as much of your body as possible in the event of an accident. Gloves are also recommended.
- Always keep your motorcycle in good repair so that it is safe to drive.
- Follow all rules of the road and never operate your motorcycle under the influence.
- Consider a motorcycle safety course or refresher course, even if you are a seasoned rider.
Florida Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Even after taking precautions, sometimes accidents happen. If you were in a motorbike accident, the personal injury attorneys at Landau Law can help you get the compensation you deserve. Contact the motorcycle accident attorneys at Landau Law today for a free consultation. Contact us today.
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