According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to die in an accident than those in a car or truck. What is the cause of a majority of these accidents? Take a look at some of the causes below.
Cars Making Left Turns
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents are right-of-way errors by cars making left turns. This happens when a car turning left at an intersection hits an oncoming motorcycle. According to left turn right-of-way laws, drivers turning left are required to yield to all other traffic. If a driver hits a motorcycle while turning left, they are typically at fault. There are certain circumstances where the motorcycle may be a fault, though. If a motorcycle is speeding, running a red light, or driving in the wrong lane, this may be the case.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is when a motorcycle drives between traffic lanes. Motorcyclists who lane split are less visible to other drivers and increase the likelihood of an accident. These motorcycles can be in a car’s blind spot and the car may hit them unexpectedly. Any wrong move by the motorcycle driver can cause serious injuries and could even be fatal.
Road Conditions
For cars, road hazards like uneven pavement, debris, potholes, and more may cause inconvenience. For motorcycles, however, these road hazards are a very common cause of accidents due to the motorcycle's small frame and the fact that motorcycles have less balance than cars.
Speeding
33% of motorcycle rider deaths in 2019 were due to the rider speeding. Speeding is one of the most common causes of accidents for motorcycles and cars. Drivers who speed have less time to react to sudden stops, road hazards, pedestrians, and more.
Driving Under the Influence
According to NHTSA, 30% of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes had a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit. Driving under the influence is illegal and those found guilty of it can face serious legal consequences.
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