Motorcycle accidents can happen for many different reasons. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include speeding, loss of control, and impaired driving. Weather conditions, road surfaces, distracted driving, and other factors can also lead to a motorcycle accident. Motorcycles are riskier to drive than cars, and motorcyclists must use caution and focus when riding.
If you or a loved one were injured in a crash involving a motorcycle, you could seek compensation if negligence was involved. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help. Here, we’ll look into motorcycle accident causes and their role in personal injury claims.
Common Motorcycle Accidents Caused by the Rider
Mistakes by the motorcycle operator can quickly cause an accident and serious injuries. Common errors made by motorcyclists include:
- Speeding: Excessive speed can cause an accident because speeding shortens a rider’s reaction time to obstacles. If an accident does happen, speeding can increase the damage caused as a result. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports speeding as a top cause of injuries and traffic fatalities nationwide.
- Impaired riding: Operating a motorcycle while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs is extremely dangerous. When under the influence, a motorcycle rider will find their reaction times diminished and decision-making skills restricted. Riding a motorcycle requires quick thinking and reflexes at all times. Impairment by drugs or alcohol only heightens the risk of a serious accident.
- Cornering mistakes: Experienced motorcycle riders know how to maneuver through turns and corners. When riders misjudge their speed or angle when navigating a corner, they can quickly lose control and crash their motorcycle. Careless or reckless riding can include poor handling of corners while on a bike.
- Inexperience: Safely operating a motorcycle requires experience and training. New riders are encouraged to take formal training and improve their skills behind the wheel. Failing to train and build experience can lead to a rider causing preventable accidents.
- Negligent riding: Negligent and reckless maneuvers can cause severe motorcycle accidents. Examples of negligent riding include tailgating, failure to yield to other vehicles, excessive speeding, weaving through traffic, and ignoring traffic signals. Motorcyclists are expected to obey the same rules of the road as everyone else.
Since motorcycle riding takes substantially more skill than operating an automobile, it’s important to regularly work on your abilities–including getting additional training if you can.
Other Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Not all motorcycle accidents are the sole responsibility of the motorcycle rider. Factors other than rider error can contribute to a serious traffic accident. Examples include:
- Road hazards: Hazards and debris in roadways can create sudden problems for motorcycle riders. Potholes, debris, uneven pavement, slick surfaces, railroad crossings, and other unexpected dangers can send a motorcycle off course.
- Left-hand turns by other vehicles: A top cause of motorcycle accidents is when a vehicle makes a sudden left turn with a motorcycle either in their blind spot, or in oncoming traffic. Sudden turns by other vehicles give motorcyclists little time to react.
- Vehicle blind spots: Due to their size compared with other vehicles, motorcycles can sometimes be missed in a driver’s blind spot. When a car or truck driver turns or changes lanes with a motorcycle in their blind spot, serious accidents can happen.
- Dooring accidents: A “dooring” accident happens when a driver in a parked vehicle opens their door quickly, with the door jutting into the roadway and in the path of a bike or motorcycle. Drivers should always check around them before swinging a door open.
- Defective equipment: Problems with brake systems, tires, steering, lighting, and other mechanical issues can create unexpected dangers – and accidents – for motorcyclists.
Whether a motorcycle accident was caused by the rider themselves, the driver of another vehicle, a mechanical defect, or some other issue, the consequences of a crash can be severe. After a serious accident, you should be aware of your full range of legal options, including the right to compensation for your losses.
Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. is a trusted motorcycle accident law firm in Madison, WI, dedicated to fighting for your deserved compensation. Our experienced attorneys will negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected. Contact us today for a free consultation.
We proudly serve Dane County and its surrounding areas.
Eisenberg Law Offices S.C. – Madison
308 E Washington Ave
Madison, WI 53703
(608) 256-8356
Our firm is located near you. We have an office in Madison, WI
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