Motorcycle accidents are caused by several causes. However, a few factors tend to contribute the most to these accidents. These include speeding, drunk driving, slippery road surfaces, and drivers failing to notice a motorcycle. This article will focus on a few of the most common factors.
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Motorcyclists are often the victims of collisions with car drivers who are speeding, failing to check their blind spots, or simply driving too fast. Drivers who fail to observe motorcycle riders can also cause collisions by failing to yield the right of way. A high speed increases the force of an impact, which can be particularly devastating for a motorcycle rider. A high speed also reduces the reaction time of drivers, making them less able to safely maneuver around a motorcycle rider.
Despite this risk, however, there are some simple precautions that motorcycle riders can take to prevent accidents. One of these precautions is to always wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle. Research shows that 33% of motorcycle fatalities are caused by speeding.
Drunk driving is a significant problem on our roads and contributes to disproportionate motorcycle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, drunk drivers are responsible for nearly 30 percent of motorcycle accident deaths. While this may seem like a small number, it is significant because drunk drivers are unable to stay in their lane and often fail to notice motorcycles in their path. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid drunk drivers at all costs.
Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents are negligent lane changes and reckless motorcyclists. However, the primary cause of motorcycle accidents in Tennessee is drunk driving.
One of the main causes of motorcycle accidents is slippery road surfaces. Roads can be extremely slippery in bad weather, making it difficult to see other cars or motorcycles. Road debris can also make the road slick. Water combined with mud and oil can create a layer that is difficult to steer around.
Slippery road surfaces are particularly hazardous for motorcycles, as the weight of a motorcycle makes it more prone to sliding and losing traction easily. Other road hazards include loose gravel, bumpy surfaces, and large potholes.
The size of motorcycles makes them difficult to spot on the road, making it even more crucial that drivers pay attention while driving. Unfortunately, many drivers fail to take the time to look for motorcyclists and fail to see them in their blind spots, which is a major contributor to motorcycle accidents.
Nearly half of motorcycle accidents involve automobiles, which means that drivers must be more aware of motorcycles on the road. Using turn signals and checking mirrors twice before merging are some of the ways that drivers can avoid collisions with motorcyclists.
Inclement weather can be a serious problem for drivers, especially motorcyclists. Roads can become slick or snowy, which can make motorcycles difficult to control. Snowfall can also reduce visibility. As a result, drivers may lose control and cause a motorcycle accident. This can result in serious injuries or fatalities.
While negligent motor vehicle drivers are often responsible for motorcycle accidents, inclement weather can also contribute to serious accidents. Heavy rain can make roads slippery and can hide road defects. A motorcycle rider is therefore more susceptible to injury during inclement weather than in a dry environment.
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