According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 5,172 motorcycle fatalities in 2017. This was a 3% drop from the year before. However, motorcycle accident fatalities are still overrepresented in traffic fatalities. California is one of the highest states each year in total motorcycle fatalities.
Because motorcycles lack the same protective enclosure as cars, motorcycle-related accidents can be much more serious. Here are some of the top causes of motorcycle accidents:
1. Left turns by a car or truck
This type of accident happens 42% of the time in all motorcycle crashes. Typically what happens is a car or truck will turn left and then collide with a motorcycle next to a vehicle. This can occur when a rider is going through an intersection or may be distracted and is in the same lane as a car while trying to pass. Oftentimes, drivers mistake the absence of trucks or cars on the road for the lack of other types of vehicles. This includes motorcycles.
2. A car changes lanes and/or lane splitting
California allows its motorcycle riders to lane split. This means they may drive in between lanes to pass vehicles. This can often result in an accident when other drivers don’t expect a bike to be there. The reaction time can be slim to none for the rider and the driver due to the speed and close proximity to the car. Even if the driver checks his or her blind spot, many motorcycles are coming at a speed or from a low profile that they can’t be seen.
3. Opening of a car door
Drivers who are parked along a street need to make sure they check before opening their car door. Too often motorcycle riders can get hit this way.
4. Speeding
Speeding is a top cause of any car accident, but especially motorcycles. Bikes are able to get to high speed very quickly. This is one reason many people like to ride them. However, what come with this is the danger of that speed. Riding at high speeds is not only dangerous for the rider themselves, but also other drivers. Reaction time is drastically lowered for all of those on the road. Additionally, taking turns at high speeds is extremely dangerous and can prove fatal.
5. Road hazards
Road hazards present an issue for riders that are not present with car or truck drivers. Potholes or irregularities in the road can usually be handled easily by larger vehicles, but motorcycles may have a more difficult time that can lead to loss of control of the bike. While wet roads are dangerous for any vehicles, they can also be particularly dangerous for motorcycles. This also includes animals crossing the road. Riders should always be aware of the roadway, potential traffic, and weather.
6. Riding while impaired
While this is the last of our list, is should not take away from the importance or severity of this. In 2016, NHTSA reported that 25% of riders in a crash with a BAC over the legal limit died. This is an extremely high number. Drinking and driving or drinking and riding interferes with reaction time, judgment, cognitive ability, and coordination.
No matter the size of the motorcycle accident, they can be serious or even deadly even if just one rider is involved. There is no cost in meeting with a motorcycle accident lawyer to evaluate your options. It is best not to wait or you may run the risk of having your claim diminished or denied.
We offer free case evaluations. This means we will review your case with you and go over documents that relate to your accident. Please give us a call at (916) 619-5452 if you have any questions or fill out our form online.
