While motorcycles offer an unrivaled amount of freedom on the road, their riders face unique dangers that require heightened awareness and perception to avoid. Moreover, motorcycle accidents can traumatize and forever change the lives of those involved. Avoiding common causes (DUI, excessive speeding, and more) can reduce the chance and severity of an accident. Nevertheless, an expert brain injury lawyer can help those who suffer such incidents to focus on healing.
California residents involved in automobile accidents can turn to Davana Law Firm for assistance. Our team, led by Mariam Kuregyan, Esq., thoroughly reviews all evidence, builds an airtight case, and secures industry-leading compensation for our clients. Plus, we don’t charge a cent until we’ve secured a successful outcome. Call (818) 501-1055 today for a free legal consultation!
Below, the most common causes of motorcycle accidents and motorcycle safety tips for preventing them:
Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
As with driving a car, riding a motorcycle after consuming alcohol is extremely dangerous. Alcohol inhibits drivers’ spatial awareness, sight, and reaction time—functions essential to safely operating any motor vehicle, let alone motorcycles. In 2022 alone, almost 30 % of motorcyclists killed in accidents were under the influence.
Therefore, motorcyclists must never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgment and coordination, making it unsafe to operate a motorcycle. Instead, arrange a safe ride home with a sober driver, a ride-sharing service, or public transportation.
Excessive Speeding
The speed at which one travels correlates directly to the severity of an accident. While the fastest commercially available motorcycle models can exceed 200 mph, American speed limits generally peak at 70 or 80 mph. Nevertheless, such speeds are more than adequate to cause severe damage and injuries.
To prevent speeding accidents, bikers must adhere to speed limits and stay aware of their surroundings. Avoid tailgating vehicles, as this proximity reduces reaction time and increases the risk of a devastating accident if the vehicle stops suddenly. It’s also worth remembering that motorcycles come equipped with airbags, but traveling at excessive speeds mitigates their effectiveness.
Car Door Openings
Many motorcycle accidents occur when a car door opens at the moment a motorcycle passes, resulting in a harsh, split-second impact. California has a dooring law against drivers opening doors into moving traffic without ensuring the surrounding area is safe.
Drivers should always check their mirrors and blind spots for approaching bikers before opening their doors. Similarly, motorcyclists should anticipate car door openings by maintaining a safe distance from parked cars. They can avoid riding too close to the edge of the lane, where car doors may suddenly swing open.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is when a motorcycle weaves through lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. Although seemingly harmless in the moment, it can be extremely dangerous if a driver opens their door or traffic picks up unexpectedly. Furthermore, California is the only state in which lane splitting is legal.
Motorcyclists that lane split do so at their own risk. Crucially, riders must avoid lane splitting in areas with high pedestrian traffic, near intersections, or when their visibility is poor. California bikers must be prepared to brake quickly or take evasive action.
Head-On Collisions
Among the most devastating types of motorcycle accidents, head-on collisions often result in severe injuries or fatalities. These occur when a motorcycle and at least one other vehicle moving in the opposite direction collide, typically due to one party crossing the centerline or driving in the wrong direction.
To reduce the risk of head-on collisions, motorcyclists must remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Avoid riding in the center of the lane, especially on winding roads, and leave enough space to take evasive action if a vehicle enters your lane. Those involved in a head-on collision must seek legal help for motorcycle accidents to see whether compensation is available.
Inclement Weather
As with all motor vehicles, riding a motorcycle in inclement weather (such as rain, snow, or ice) significantly increases the risk of accidents. Reduced visibility, slippery road surfaces, and strong winds can undermine operators’ control of their motorcycle, further compounding any danger.
When riding in extreme weather, motorcyclists must exercise extreme caution: reducing speed, increasing their following distances, and avoiding sudden movements. If the weather becomes too severe, they should pull over and wait for poor weather to pass or find alternate transportation.
Speak to a Brain Injury Lawyer in California Today!
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident due to another party’s negligence, you deserve skilled legal representation. At Davana Law, our team of dedicated brain injury lawyers understands the complexities of these cases, working tirelessly to ensure victims receive the compensation they deserve. Don’t face this challenging time alone—call (818) 501-1055 today for a free legal consultation!
