With sunshine and warmer temperatures, it’s motorcycle season! While it’s a great time of the year for those who love to ride motorcycles, it’s also a deadly time of the year as a motorcycle accident lawyer can attest. According to an article from Chris Sullivan, May through September is the most dangerous time of the year for riders.
Who Holds The Responsibility For Preventing A Motorcycle Accident?
Although most motorists believe it is up to the motorcyclist to be more careful when they’re out and about, the truth is that most motorcycle accidents are the fault of a motorist and not the motorcyclist. However, both motorists and those who ride motorcycles should share and do legally share the responsibility of sharing the roadway and being mindful of one another.
According to experts cited in Chris Sullivan’s article, the best way to prevent motorcycle accidents is by educating the public. As our friends at Herschensohn Law Firm, PLLC can share, it is more common than not that people do not know who has the right of way or what their insurance plans actually cover. Educating yourself on these is extremely important for both your safety and peace of mind. So, let’s dive into an important question:
What are some of the top causes of motorcycle accidents?
Top Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Here’s what you should know so that you can minimize your risk.
The top causes of these accidents include:
- A speeding vehicle or motorcycle
- Another accident in front of the motorcyclist
- Wet roads, oil, or other wet or slippery substances on a road or parking lot
- Experienced rider or driver
- Driving a vehicle or motorcycle while under the influence
- Left turns
- A sudden stop may cause a motorcyclist to get thrown from their bike
- A driver does not see the motorcyclist and hits them
It is important to constantly be alert while driving. Minimize distractions like your phone or eating behind the wheel. Always double check before making turns or switching lanes. If there is bad weather, slow down and pull over if needed. It is better to be late than to be involved in a serious accident.
Common Injuries Seen In Motorcycle Accidents
We’ve already touched on fatalities. That is the worst possible outcome of a motorcycle accident. However, there are many serious injuries that may also occur, such as:
- Traumatic brain injury, which also happen to be the most common reasons a motorcyclist is killed in an accident
- Broken or crushed bones
- Torn muscles, tendons, or ligaments
- Foot and leg injuries
- Injuries to the spinal cord and/or neck
- Injuries to the hand and arm
- Burns
While extremely traumatic for the motorcyclist, it can also be expensive for the person who hit them. Depending on your insurance and what the cyclist decides to do, you may find yourself paying for costly medical bills.
Stay Safe During Motorcycle Season
Pay attention to the road and remember to share it. Stay safe during motorcycle season! If you do get into a motorcycle accident, contact an attorney near you immediately for representation.