Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
For motorcycle riders, potential dangers lurk around every corner. Knowing the most common causes of motorcycle accidents can help you be on the lookout for these hazards and better prepare you to avoid an accident.
Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents are:
- Lack of visibility. Motorcycle riders are notoriously invisible on the roadways. Because of the bike’s smaller size, riders are often in the blind spot of other motorists, and accidents occur simply because the motorcycle was “not seen” by the other driver. To help reduce this hazard, all motorcyclists should be aware of potential blind spots and employ defensive driving techniques when sharing the road with other motorists. In addition, It’s recommended that motorcyclists use headlights at all times to help increase visibility.
- Inexperienced motorcyclists. It is important to know the capabilities and limitations of your bike. Inexperienced riders should practice in secure areas and get to know their motorcycles prior to hitting the open road.
- Speed. Many motorcycle accidents that do not involve another vehicle occur as the direct result of excessive speed. It is important for riders to obey all posted speed limits and adjust their speed according to their own driving capabilities and the current road conditions to avoid accidents and injury.
- Lane changes. Lane changes are especially hazardous for the motorcyclist and should always be done with added caution and awareness of the surrounding environment. Not only can accidents occur when a motorcycle rider changes lanes, but a common cause of motorcycle accidents is improper lane changes by other motorists. Any time a lane change is possible, the motorcyclist needs to be aware of the potential danger.
- Impairment. Just like with automobile accidents, alcohol and street drug use play a large role in many motorcycle accidents. Riders and passengers should never get on a motorcycle after using alcohol or street drugs especially since physical control and balance are so important to the safe operation of a motorcycle.
- Road conditions. Motorcyclists are especially susceptible to road hazards such as oil slicks, debris, and loose gravel. Be on the lookout for these hazards to help decrease your chance of being involved in a motorcycle accident.
- Tailgating. Anther common cause of motorcycle crashes is tailgating. Either the motorcyclist or other motorists fail to maintain a safe distance between vehicles, and sudden stops or maneuvers result in an accident. A good rule of thumb for providing safe driving distances is to maintain one car-length (or motorcycle length) of distance for every ten miles an hour in speed. This equates into six car-lengths when traveling 60 miles an hour.
Safe driving includes being aware of common problems and hazards when out on the roadway, and safe motorcyclists are always on the lookout for potential road hazards. The U.S. government provides a free publication on motorcycle safety at: http://www.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/motosafety.html.
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