Motorcycle accidents are largely the fault of the motorist who is driving at a high speed. While this isn’t always the case, in more than half of motorcycle accidents, a car driver is to blame. In addition to this, human error accounts for around 15% of motorcycle accidents, and vehicle failure accounts for another 20%. By wearing a helmet, you can dramatically reduce your risk of being in a motorcycle accident and potentially save your life.
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Car drivers are responsible for more than half of all motorcycle accidents. These accidents are often caused by speeding, a common problem among drivers of all types, and it reduces the time a motorcycle has to react to potential road hazards. As a result, it’s more difficult for motorcycle drivers to keep up with traffic and account for other vehicles, and this leads to more accidents. Fortunately, these accidents don’t always result in fatalities.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, over three-quarters of motorcycle accidents are caused by rider error. These mistakes include braking too late, running wide on a curve, not having enough side bite, and not wearing the correct gear. Additionally, alcohol is implicated in nearly half of motorcycle accidents that result in death. These mistakes increase the severity of injuries and can have devastating effects on the rider. However, wearing the proper gear and following all traffic laws can greatly minimize the effects of a crash.
Motorcycle accidents are caused by several factors, but one of the most common is vehicle failure. According to a recent study, nearly 20% of fatal motorcycle accidents are caused by a vehicle that fails to recognize or detect a motorcycle. Motorists should always be cautious when making lane changes and always use a turn signal. In addition, it’s important to watch your mirrors when changing lanes to avoid an accident.
Human error is a contributing factor in more than 15% of motorcycle accidents. It can occur in many different situations, including leaving the road in the wrong lane or failing to measure distances properly. It also affects traction, which is particularly important for motorcycles, which weigh much less than other vehicles. In addition to this, a lack of road safety signage and other road conditions can make it more difficult to maneuver a motorbike safely.
The majority of bike accidents occur on short trips, typically under five miles. However, accidents can occur at slower speeds as well. Depending on the weather, bikers should be cautious when riding in the evening. When the sun sets, weather conditions can quickly change and fog may roll in from the ocean. The temperature of the asphalt changes as well, which can affect the grip of the road surface.
Intoxication is a huge contributing factor to motorcycle accidents. It makes bikers more prone to mistakes than other drivers, but it also makes them more likely to suffer fatal consequences. Alcohol use is common among drivers of all types, and bikers are particularly susceptible to drunk driving.
While it may be tempting to try to reduce travel time and avoid bumper-to-bumper traffic, lane splitting is a very dangerous practice. Drivers often do not see motorcycles when they lane split, and accidents can result in serious injuries and even fatalities. Many states have laws prohibiting the practice, but it is still a common cause of motorcyclist accidents.
Bicyclist fatalities increase during the night. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, about 40 percent of all bicyclist fatalities occur between the hours of 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays, and about six percent during those hours on weekends. Regardless of the time of day, it is important to remember to be safe and wear reflective gear.
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