Common Types of Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycles are inherently more dangerous than cars because they lack the protection of a car’s steel body, crumple zones, and airbags. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reported 4,985 motorcyclist fatalities from crashes in 2018. Those who do survive often suffer substantial injuries that take years to recover from. Below are some common types of motorcycle crashes along with tips to avoid them.
A Driver make a Left Turn In Front of You
Intersections are particularly dangerous for motorcycles because a driver may glance up, not see another car approaching and begin making a turn while you are also progressing through the intersection. Had the driver been paying closer attention they would have seen you, but many drivers use intersection stops as a chance to be distracted and glance at their phone. When they do glance up, they fail to properly see or judge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle. The staff at RideApart recommends you look at the wheels of cars because that will be the first sign of a driver’s intention to turn. Pay attention to cars off to the side or behind you so that you can plan an escape route if possible. Your primary goal should be to reduce your speed with the few seconds you have going into any left turn accident.
A Driver Changes Lanes Into You
Motorcycles are smaller vehicles while passenger cars and trucks have blind spots. An average car has two blind spots on either side of it, but some cars are packed full or have broken mirrors, which can increase the blind spot area. Ideally, spend as little time beside other drivers who could change lanes and knock you from the motorcycle.
A Driver Rear-ends You
When drivers are distracted, speeding, or following too closely to a motorcyclist there is a high chance for a rear-end collision. If a driver is doing any of these risky behaviors, you can attempt to switch lanes to let them pass. If you are stopped at an intersection pay attention to the cars coming up behind you. Staying to one side of the lane can give you an escape route if you notice a car coming up quickly that might hit you.
Other Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
Other common causes of motorcycle crashes include high speed crashes, taking the corners to fast, and alcohol-related crashes. While you cannot control other drivers on the road, you can avoid these behaviors and cut down significantly on your risk of being hit while riding your motorcycle. You can also learn more safety tips by enrolling in a local motorcycle safety course.
The Ocala Attorneys At Glover Law Firm are Here to Help
Florida’s temperatures make motorcycle riding an enjoyable activity year-round, but the key is to stay safe on the roads. If you or a loved one is involved in a motorcycle crash where another party should be held responsible, you need to seek the help of a skilled Ocala motorcycle accident attorney at the Glover Law Firm. Contact us at 352-484-0775 to schedule a free consultation today.
Resources:
rideapart.com/articles/254912/10-common-motorcycle-accidents-and-how-to-avoid-them/
iihs.org/topics/fatality-statistics/detail/motorcycles-and-atvs#trends
https://www.gloverlawfirm.com/are-motorcycle-helmets-mandatory-in-florida/
