What Makes Motorcycle Accidents So Deadly?

What Makes Motorcycle Accidents So Deadly? 

There are many things that contribute to a fatal motorcycle crash. But some of the most common factors are hazardous road conditions, speeding and reckless driving, and intoxication. 

(Looking for a Car Accident Lawyer? Contact us Today! Click here: stop moped accident lawyers)

Hazardous Road Conditions – Unsafe roadway conditions such as slippery surfaces, uneven pavement, loose gravel or debris on the roadway, and construction zones are the leading cause of motorcycle accidents in the United States. Since motorcycles are smaller in size and have less stability than cars and trucks, they are more vulnerable to these types of unsafe road conditions. 

Head-on Collisions – Injuries resulting from head-on collisions are some of the most devastating and life-threatening for motorcyclists, especially when the crash occurs at high speeds. These crashes account for a huge percentage of motorcycle deaths. 

A head-on crash can be fatal for a rider because they could be thrown or crushed from their motorcycle into another vehicle or the side of the road. This type of crash also results in severe injuries that may require lifelong medical care and treatment. 

Rear-End Crash – Drivers who rear end motorcyclists typically don’t see them due to their blind spots, which makes these crashes more deadly. Rear-end collisions are also one of the most dangerous types of accidents because a rider’s body can be pushed into oncoming traffic or into the side of the road. 

Speeding and Reckless Driving – Motorcycles can be difficult to control, and many riders choose to ride at excessive speeds that could result in them losing control of their bike. This can be because they are not used to riding at such high speeds, or because they are feeling the thrill of driving a fast motorcycle. 

Riding at a too-high speed or a bike that is not equipped for the conditions can lead to a motorcycle crash, regardless of skill level. This can happen when a rider is traveling in bad weather conditions or when they are unfamiliar with the roadway features and the drivers around them. 

Driving While Intoxicated – Riders who are under the influence of alcohol and drugs can experience a wide range of cognitive and physical difficulties, including slower reaction time and poor coordination. Additionally, the intoxication may impair a rider’s ability to notice and respond to other road users. 

Driver Distraction & Inattention – Drivers who are distracted by things like food, music, podcasts, phone calls, text messages, and other forms of media can also lead to motorcycle accidents. Inattention can cause drivers to lose sight of a rider in front of them, miss the lane split, or otherwise fail to pay attention to the roadway. 

Lane Splitting / Lane Changes – A motorcyclist is allowed to lane split during times of heavy traffic or in a traffic jam. However, it is important to be aware of the dangers of lane splitting. This is because it can cause a motorcyclist to be struck by a car that has just turned left or has suddenly stopped in front of them.