Riding a motorcycle takes skill and training. Drivers need to have an endorsement on their license or a Class M motorcycle license to legally operate a motorcycle on public roads. They have to carry liability insurance in case they cause crashes.
Motorcycle collisions are a safety concern, but the people on the motorcycle are likely more at risk than others who they encounter in traffic. Motorcycles do not provide much physical protection in the event of a collision. Even when riders wear the best gear on the market, they can still sustain severe injuries in crashes involving motor vehicles.
While everyone in traffic should do their best to reduce the chances of a crash occurring, motorcycle riders have more of an incentive than most other motorists. When people understand the top causes of collisions, they may make better decisions about avoiding them. What are some of the leading causes of motorcycle crashes involving bigger vehicles?
Inattentive drivers
Distracted driving has reached epidemic proportions. People have a very difficult time disconnecting from their mobile devices. When they don’t properly monitor traffic, they can overlook other vehicles, leading to preventable collisions.
Motorcycle riders are at particularly high risk if they encounter distracted and otherwise inattentive drivers. People tend to focus more on larger vehicles and other safety threats. On a subconscious level, drivers generally don’t view motorcycles as a threat, which may lead to people overlooking them in traffic.
Alcohol impairment
A significant percentage of motorcycle collisions involve at least one person with high blood alcohol levels. Motorcycle riders can protect themselves by choosing not to ride after drinking. They may also want to watch carefully for signs that others might be under the influence, such as swerving and sporadic braking.
Wet roads
Most motorcycle riders try to stay off of the streets during active precipitation. However, they may head out as soon as the storm ends. That can be a very dangerous decision.
Wet pavement is risky for everyone, especially motorcycle riders. Increased stopping distances and a greater likelihood of losing control contribute to post-storm risk for motorcycle riders.
Particularly in situations where other drivers fail to yield to a motorcycle or otherwise cause a crash, injured riders may need support pursuing compensation. Holding drivers accountable can help injured motorcycle riders recover their property damage losses and pay for their medical treatment.