Although motorcycling can be an exciting experience, there are risks involved as well. Because motorcycle riders are more susceptible to accidents on the road than other drivers, it is imperative that safety come first at all times.
Motorcyclists face a unique set of risks when it comes to collisions, both with other vehicles and fixed objects like trees or guardrails. Unlike the protection provided by cars, motorcycles lack the metal encasing and airbag cushioning, making riders particularly vulnerable. Additionally, motorcycles are significantly smaller and lighter than most vehicles on the road.
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Left Turns
A Common Hazard One of the most prevalent and perilous scenarios for motorcyclists is collisions involving cars making left-hand turns. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021, 43% of all fatal crashes involving motorcycles and another vehicle occurred when the other vehicle was turning left.
These accidents typically occur at intersections, where cars making left turns collide with oncoming or passing motorcycles. Common contributing factors include driver distraction, limited visibility making it challenging for car drivers to gauge motorcycle speed, and speeding.
While the law is clear regarding left-turn right-of-way, with drivers turning left required to yield to other traffic, motorcyclists might share fault if they are speeding, running red lights, or riding in the wrong lane.
Head-On Collisions
A Grave Danger Head-on collisions pose significant risks to motorcyclists, accounting for over half of the 6,082 motorcycles involved in fatal accidents in 2021, according to NHTSA data. In two-vehicle crashes, 75% of motorcycles were struck in the front, highlighting the severe consequences of such collisions.
These accidents are especially dangerous due to the disparate force involved, with cars typically weighing four times as much as motorcycles, coupled with the lack of safety features on motorcycles.
Collisions with Fixed Objects
A Lethal Threat Motorcyclists are also more likely to suffer fatal injuries in collisions with fixed objects compared to occupants of passenger cars. In 2021, 24% of fatal motorcycle accidents involved collisions with fixed objects, such as trees or fences, underscoring the inherent dangers faced by riders.
Road Hazards
Constant Vigilance Required Motorcyclists must remain vigilant for various road hazards that might go unnoticed by drivers of larger vehicles. Factors like rough roads, gravel, slick surfaces, lane height variations, and debris pose significant risks to motorcycles due to their smaller size and reduced stability.
Lane Splitting
An Added Risk Lane splitting, where motorcycles weave between lanes of stopped or slow-moving cars, is a common cause of motorcycle accidents. Few states permit lane splitting, and accidents resulting from this practice often attribute fault to the motorcyclist due to the unexpected maneuvering between vehicles.
Motorcyclist Behaviors
A Contributing Factor While some risks are beyond their control, motorcyclists can influence safety through their behaviors. Factors like alcohol impairment, speeding, and failure to wear helmets significantly increase the likelihood of accidents and severe injuries.
Your chances of being in a motorcycle accident can be greatly decreased by paying attention to a few key points.
Top 8 tips to protect yourself from a motorcycle accident
1. Wear the Right Gear
Wearing the right gear is one of the most crucial parts of motorcycle safety. Regardless of the distance you want to ride, wearing a helmet is a requirement. Purchasing a high-quality helmet that complies with safety regulations is also advised. An additional layer of protection in the event of an accident can also be obtained by using protective apparel, such as boots, gloves, pants, and leather jackets.
2. Stay Visible
Motorcycle riders must be visible because other motorists may find it difficult to notice them on the road. Wear a reflector vest or clothing with bright colors to increase your visibility. Make that the turn signals, taillights, and headlights on your motorcycle are all functional. When changing lanes or making a turn, always use your signals, and make an effort to position yourself so that other drivers can see you more clearly.
3. Practice Defensive Riding
Riding defensively entails foreseeing possible risks and taking proactive steps to avoid them. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles and stay alert at all times. Watch out for potential hazards on the road, such as debris, potholes, and damp surfaces, and modify your riding style accordingly. Steer clear of blind spots and be ready to respond swiftly in case of any unforeseen circumstances while driving.
4. Observe Speed Limits
One of the main reasons for motorcycle accidents is speeding. Respecting speed limits is essential for your safety as well as the safety of other drivers. It’s important to keep a safe speed that enables you to respond quickly to any possible hazards because motorbikes have a shorter stopping distance than cars.
5. Be Mindful of Weather Conditions
The safety of motorcycling can be greatly impacted by weather conditions. Visibility on the road might be reduced by rain, snow, and severe winds. Check the weather before you ride, and try to avoid riding in bad weather whenever you can. Inclement weather should be avoided at all costs. Slow down, stay farther behind, and exercise extreme caution.
6. Avoid Riding Under the Influence
Never operate a motorcycle while intoxicated by drugs or alcohol. Error proneness and delayed reaction times considerably raise the danger of collisions. If you intend to drink, make sure someone else drives sober or find a different way to get where you’re going.
7. Regularly Maintain Your Motorcycle
A motorcycle that has been properly maintained is less likely to have mechanical issues that could cause collisions. Make sure your tires, brakes, lights, and other essential parts are in good operating order by checking them on a regular basis. Observe the maintenance plan suggested by the manufacturer and take quick action to resolve any problems.
8. Continuous Skill Development
Developing your riding abilities can help you avoid accidents in a big manner. Think about enrolling in safety training classes or advanced riding courses. These classes can improve your overall riding skills and offer you useful strategies to handle various riding scenarios.
Also Read: All About Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Conclusion
Although motorcycle accidents can have serious effects, you can greatly lower your risk of being in one by paying attention to these important suggestions. Always put safety first, wear the appropriate clothing, stay visible, ride defensively, respect speed limits, pay attention to the weather, never ride after drinking, take good care of your motorbike, and keep improving your riding abilities. You can maintain your safety on the road and still enjoy the freedom of riding by using these safety measures.
