According to the most recent data from the Florida Crash Dashboard, this month has seen a provisional record of 311 motorcycle crashes accounting for 38% of total motor vehicle accidents with 12 fatalities or 11% of all deaths in the state. These countless motorcycle accidents indicate a pressing need to understand the primary causes of these devastating collisions. Read on to learn the leading causes of motorcycle accidents and what you can do to stay safe on the road.
Leading causes of motorcycle accidents
Understanding the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is key to helping reduce them. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the most common causes of motorcycle crashes are:
1. Inexperienced riders
Lack of skill or knowledge can lead to loss of control or failure to anticipate a hazardous situation resulting in an accident.
2. Reckless driving
Excessive speed is the leading cause of motorcycle crashes. Motorcyclists must always adhere to posted speed limits and adjust their speeds according to the conditions of the road. Other examples of reckless behavior include weaving in and out of traffic, unsafe passing, and other illegal maneuvers.
3. Driving under the influence (DUI)
Intoxicated drivers or driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs a motorcyclist’s ability to adequately assess potential hazards on the road and react to them safely. The blood alcohol level (BAC) limit is 0.08% for adults in the United States.
4. Distracted driving
Texting, talking on the phone, and other distractions can lead to a driver not noticing motorcycles in their blind spot or failing to yield the right-of-way.
5. Road hazards
Poor or dangerous road conditions such as potholes, debris, uneven pavement, wet or slippery surfaces, poor lighting, and improperly marked intersections can cause a motorcycle to lose control or skid, resulting in accidents.
6. Motorcycle defects
Faulty brakes, tires, and other parts can lead to mechanical failure while riding which can cause a crash.
7. Physical impairment
An impaired rider’s vision, balance, or reaction time can lead to being unable to react quickly enough and cause an accident.
8. Emotional impairment
Being angry, upset, or in a hurry can cause riders to take risks they wouldn’t normally take while driving.
9. Car doors opening
When cars opened their doors without looking, motorcyclists can crash into them or be forced off the road.
Types of motorcycle collisions
There are two main types of motorcycle crashes: single-vehicle and multiple-vehicle.
1. Single-vehicle accidents
This happens when a rider loses control of their bike, crashes into an object (like a tree or a guardrail) or goes off the road.
2. Multiple-vehicle accidents
This occurs when another vehicle, often a car or truck, is involved in the crash. This type of accident is more common and often more severe, as the impact between vehicles can cause serious injuries for both riders and other drivers.
Categories of motorcycle accidents
There are five distinct categories of motorcycle accidents: head-on collisions, rear-end crashes, left-turn accidents, lane-splitting, and corner-turning accidents.
1. Head-on collisions
This occurs when two vehicles collide while traveling in opposite directions. Head-on collisions are the deadliest type of motorcycle accident, often due to drunk driving or motorists crossing over into oncoming traffic.
2. Rear-end crashes
This happens when one vehicle hits another from behind, often due to the first vehicle braking unexpectedly. This type of accident is more common when cars and motorcycles are traveling in the same lane. This type of crash is particularly dangerous as it can result in catastrophic injury or death due to the high speed involved and limited protection for motorcyclists.
3. Left turn accidents
This occurs when a vehicle turning left fails to yield the right of way and crashes into an oncoming motorcycle.
4. Lane-splitting accidents
This involves motorcycles colliding with other vehicles while driving in between lanes. Lane splitting is when a motorcycle drives in and out of traffic lanes, often at high speeds. This practice increases the risk of crashes due to drivers’ failure to notice motorcycles.
5. Corner-turning accidents
This type of accident occurs when a motorcyclist is turning a corner and collides with an oncoming vehicle. Corner-turning accidents can be especially dangerous due to the limited space available for maneuvering. Making turns too quickly, underestimating the speed of approaching vehicles, and lack of lane position can lead to a crash on a corner.
Severe or fatal injuries from motorcycle collisions
Reported motorcycle crashes result in severe or fatal injuries more often than other types of road accidents. Motorcyclists are more vulnerable to injury compared to vehicle drivers of passenger vehicles due to their lack of protection, meaning they’re more likely to suffer serious or fatal injuries in an accident. Common motorcycle crash injuries include:
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): This can range from mild concussion to serious brain damage and is often caused by the head hitting the pavement or other objects.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI): These injuries occur when there is damage to the spinal cord due to trauma, resulting in paralysis or loss of motor functions.
3. Internal Organ Damage: This type of injury can occur due to the force of an impact, often from striking an object or being thrown from a motorcycle.
4. Broken Bones: This injury occurs when bones break or fracture due to excessive force in an accident.
5. Soft Tissue Injuries: These injuries are caused by torn muscles, ligaments, and tendons due to the impact of an accident.
6. Road Rash Injuries: This type of injury is caused by skin scraping against the pavement and can be painful, leading to scarring or infection if not treated immediately.
7. Death: Motorcycle accidents can be fatal and often result in the loss of life.
What to do after an accident?
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Afterward, there are several steps that you should take to ensure your rights and best interests are protected.
1. Document the Accident: Take photos of the scene, including any vehicle damage as well as skid marks or debris. Make sure to get contact information from any witnesses and the other driver.
2. File a Police Report: Contact the police and make sure to include your version of events when filing a report.
3. Get Legal Assistance: Contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney right away who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights, interests, and future.
Determining Liability in a motorcycle crash
To determine liability in a motorcycle crash, the negligence of all parties involved must be examined. Negligence can be established by proving that the other driver failed to take reasonable steps to avoid the accident or acted carelessly and without regard for safety.
The police report, witness statements, and evidence from the scene can all be used to determine liability. In addition, it is important to remember that in certain states, the concept of “comparative negligence” may be applied when determining fault. This means that both you and the other driver could be held partially responsible for the accident.
Damages you can claim after a motorcycle accident
Victims of motorcycle accidents are entitled to seek compensation for their losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. It is important to remember that each case is unique, so it is best to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer from the Jared Spingarn law firm who can help you understand your legal rights and options. They offer free consultations and will fight for the best possible outcome. They are committed to helping motorcycle accident victims and their families seek justice, maximize insurance settlements, and get the financial compensation they deserve.
How to avoid future motorcycle accidents
Motorcycle riders should always make safety a priority by following traffic laws, wearing protective gear, and avoiding distractions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Wear Appropriate Protective Gear: Always wear a helmet, eye protection, and other protective gear that is designed specifically for motorcycle riding.
2. Take Your Time: Always give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination and take regular breaks if necessary.
3. Drive Defensively: Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert of other vehicles on the road, especially at intersections or when making turns.
4. Maintain Your Motorcycle: Regularly check your bike and make sure it is in good working condition before heading out on the road.
5. Avoid Distractions: Never use a phone or other electronic device while riding and always keep your hands on the handlebar and eyes on the road.
By following these safety tips, you can reduce your risk of being involved in fatal accidents.
Conclusion
Knowing what is the main cause of motorcycle accidents, understanding the steps to take after an accident, and following safety tips can help you to avoid future bike accidents. In the case of an accident, it is integral to seek medical attention immediately and consult with a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney in order to safeguard your rights and interests.
>> If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Florida, don’t hesitate to reach out to Jared Spingarn, Accident Attorney, at 1-954-781-2316 for a Free Case Review or drop a message on their Contact Us page.