How Often Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
How Often Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
The most common type of motorcycle accident involves a head-on collision. More than half of all fatal motorcycle accidents are caused by crashes with another vehicle. Another one-third is caused by the rider’s error, while the remainder is caused by other factors. In addition to vehicle failure, alcohol use is a major contributor to motorcycle accident fatalities in the U.S.
(Looking for a Car Accident Lawyer? Contact us Today! Click here: truck accidents law firm)
About 3/4 of all motorcycle accidents are caused by a head-on collision
Head-on collisions are a major cause of motorcycle accidents. According to a recent study, about 3/4 of all motorcycle accidents are the result of a head-on collision. According to the study, motorcyclists are often struck while turning left, while only 28% are struck by other vehicles when they are going straight. About a third of these collisions are the result of speeding.
A head-on collision occurs when the front ends of two vehicles collide, resulting in serious injuries. Typically, a driver will be at fault in these collisions, but sometimes the motorcycle may not be. This is because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, so they are more vulnerable to road conditions.
Vehicle failure is the leading cause
A motorcycle accident is caused by several different factors. Road conditions, weather conditions, and other drivers are some of the most common factors. In addition to these factors, the rider’s negligence is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. Often, the rider is not paying attention to his or her surroundings and ends up running wide on a curve, under-cornering, or under-braking.
As motorists, we must watch out for motorcycles while driving. Unfortunately, many drivers are not trained to look for motorcycles and have little regard for them. In the United States, 8.4 million motorcycles are registered for operation on public roads. According to the Motorcycle Injury Council, this number is expected to double within the next 12 years.
Rider error is the second leading cause
While riding a motorcycle, it is important to pay attention to the road ahead, as well as to other drivers. Distractions, such as texting and cell phone use, affect the driver’s ability to see and react quickly. Riding a motorcycle while distracted increases your chances of being in a crash.
Driver negligence is the leading cause of motorcycle accidents, but there are also many other factors to consider. Motorcycles can be hit by a truck, car, or even another motorcycle. While steel frames protect a car from damage from impact, a motorcycle’s frame is not as sturdy. Motorcyclists may also fall victim to weather conditions, or even reckless driving. Motorcyclists should also be aware of their speed, as driving at a fast speed decreases reaction time and increases the risk of crashing.
Alcohol is the leading cause of motorcycle accident fatalities in the U.S.
Although other causes of impairment may be contributing to motorcycle crashes, alcohol is a leading cause. In 2017, nearly one-third of motorcycle fatalities were caused by alcohol. In addition to the direct effects of alcohol on motorcycle riders, the environment can also play a role in motorcycle accidents.
In 2015, forty-two percent of fatal motorcycle crashes involved alcohol-impaired motorcycle riders. This number has increased from 40 percent in 2006. Furthermore, 63 percent of these crashes occurred on weekends, when motorcycle riders are most likely to be drinking.