With summer quickly approaching, more and more motorcyclists are out on the road. There’s nothing quite like the roar of a motorcycle engine or the joy of riding on a sunny day, the road stretching before you.
But aside from all the pleasures of riding a motorcycle, there are real dangers, too. The small size and lack of surrounding protection of motorcycles put motorcyclists (and passengers) at risk of serious injury or death. Both cyclists and car drivers alike need to be aware of their surroundings and take proper precautions on the road.
May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, and we would like to share some of the top causes for motorcycle collisions.
1. Cars making left-hand turns
Intersections are one of the most dangerous places on the road for a motorcyclist. Sometimes, in a rush to make a left turn, a vehicle doesn’t see a motorcycle behind the oncoming car and causes a collision. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) 2016 Traffic Safety Facts (published in 2018), researchers found that in the 2,625 fatal motorcycle-vehicle crashes, 41% involved a vehicle crashing into a motorcycle while the vehicle was turning left at an intersection.
2. Improper motorcycle licensing
In the same NHTSA 2016 report, 27% of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were driving a motorcycle without proper motorcycle licensure. In order to safely and legally operate a motorcycle, a driver must have additional license endorsements for operating a motorcycle. This licensure involves additional testing and sometimes rider education courses.
3. Road conditions and debris
Factors such as wet roads, potholes, and debris on the road can be hazardous to any vehicle. But because of the small size and reduced stability of a motorcycle, these factors can cause serious problems. Learn how to handle your motorcycle in a variety of road conditions, drive at the appropriate speed, and pay close attention to the road and any upcoming hazards.
4. Speeding
You may feel the need for speed. But the thrill of speeding down the road could end up costing you or others dearly. Drive responsibly at all times, whether you’re driving a motorcycle or another type of vehicle. Thirty-three percent of fatal motorcycle crashes in 2016 were caused because the motorcyclist was speeding, compared to 19% for car drivers.
Reckless or inattentive driving is never worth the risk. Any of the above hazards can be largely mitigated by basic road safety on the part of all drivers, whether motorcyclists or otherwise.
The legal aftermath of a motorcycle collision can be treacherous territory. If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash involving a motorcycle, call personal injury attorney Richard Smith for a free consultation. Richard Smith has been handling personal injury cases for over 30 years. Call him at (864) 236-5530 to schedule an appointment.
Disclaimer: Principle office is located at 1210 Laurens Rd, Greenville, SC 29607. No fee unless the case is settled or won, costs may be excluded.
