Davis Law Group Receives Seattle Business Magazine’s ‘Best Companies to Work For’ Award Learn More
How dangerous are motorcycles? Thousands of motorcyclists die each year in traffic crashes, and tens of thousands more are injured. The wrecks that lead to these tragic outcomes result from a combination of factors, some of which show up more frequently than others. If you are wondering, “How do most motorcycle crashes happen?” the answer boils down to seven common factors.
The majority of motorcycle fatality and injury collisions can be placed into one of seven categories based on the type of collision or contributing factor. These categories are:
One of the features that many bikers love about their rides is a motorcycle’s speed and nimbleness. Unfortunately, speeding while operating any vehicle raises the risk of a severe or fatal crash. Motorcyclists could lose control of their bikes or be unable to avoid colliding with a hazard if they are traveling too fast.
Motorists and motorcyclists alike are guilty of operating their vehicles while distracted. Doing so is equally dangerous for both groups. Distracted motorists can not only lose control and wreck, but they can also prevent you from seeing another vehicle or danger and safely maneuver around it.
Operating a motorcycle requires coordination and skill, two things that can be adversely affected by alcohol or drugs. Motorcyclists can find it difficult to brake or turn without losing their balance and crashing. Unlike drivers of cars and trucks, motorcyclists have little protection from injuries in the event of a wreck.
A lane departure accident occurs when one vehicle leaves its designated lane of travel and enters another. This often leads to head-on crashes that are deadly for bikers. Whether the motorcycle or another vehicle leaves its lane, it is often due to a factor such as distraction or impairment.
Potholes and uneven surfaces can be nuisances for cars and trucks, but they can cause serious crashes for motorcycles. Even minor potholes can throw motorcyclists off their bikes or cause them to lose control of their ride. This danger is especially prevalent at night, when bikers may not be able to see a pothole or debris in time to avoid it.
Other drivers can intentionally or unintentionally violate a motorcyclist’s right of way. This most often occurs at intersections or when one vehicle or another is making a turn. Failing to ensure that the road is clear before proceeding can lead to side-impact, head-on, or rear-end crashes.
“Dooring” is a danger for motorcyclists and bicyclists, especially as they try to navigate around parked vehicles. It happens when a driver or passenger opens their door directly into the path of an approaching biker. If the motorcyclist cannot stop in time to avoid a crash, the collision can be catastrophic or fatal for the motorcyclist.
What is the main cause of motorcycle accidents? Often, the answer is negligent behavior by one or more people on the road. Motorcyclists who take unnecessary risks can place themselves in situations that lead to severe or fatal injuries. Similarly, thoughtless or inattentive drivers can crash into bikers and leave those motorcyclists with potentially life-threatening injuries. It is critical for both bikers and motorists to recognize the ways in which motorcyclists most often sustain injuries. This information helps highlight the behaviors that pose the greatest risk of harm to motorcycle riders so individuals can make safer choices on the road.
If you’ve been injured in Seattle, WA, and need legal assistance, contact Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers. Contact our legal team and schedule a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer today. We proudly serve King County in Washington and it’s surrounding areas. Visit our law office at:
Davis Law Group Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
2101 4th Ave 1030 Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 727 4000
Hours: Open 24/7
Complete this CONFIDENTIAL form or call 206-727-4000 for a FREE consultation.