Tips On Avoiding the Most Common Cause Of Motorcycle Accidents
December 24, 2022 Posted In Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists are at an extremely high risk of severe injury and must be extra cautious to prevent a collision. Here are some tips on how to avoid the most common causes of motorcycle accidents.
Cars Turning Left in Front of a Motorcyclist
One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is when a vehicle fails to yield the right of way to a motorcyclist and turns left in front of them.
How To Avoid It: Far before entering an intersection, look for signs that another motorist may turn in front of you.
- Slow down and be ready to take evasive action if necessary.
- Consider whether the driver can see you clearly.
- Try to check whether they are paying attention and looking in your direction.
- Look at where their wheels are pointing.
Car Changes Lanes Where a Motorcyclist is Riding
When riding on the highway or a multi-lane road, drivers often fail to check before changing lanes, especially their blind spots.
How To Avoid It: Try to ride outside of other vehicles’ blind spots. As a general rule, if you cannot see a driver in their side mirror, they cannot see you. Stay vigilant in situations where lane changes happen frequently and watch for the following signs:
- Turn signals
- Wheels changing directions
- Drivers that are swerving
- A driver’s head moving around to check traffic
Getting Hit From Behind
When a motorcyclist is hit from behind, it often takes place at an intersection when a driver fails to stop in time or when a driver is speeding. These collisions can be catastrophic.
How To Avoid It:
Try to stop at the side of a lane rather than the center when arriving at an intersection. Flash your brake light rapidly by tapping the brake lever, and be prepared to move fast by keeping your hand on the throttle. Check your mirrors regularly to see what is happening behind you in case a vehicle is approaching too quickly.
Entering a Corner Too Fast
When a motorcyclist enters a corner too fast, they may not make it if it tightens. If they become concerned and brake too quickly, locking up the front wheel and losing control of the bike.
How To Avoid It: Slow down when entering a corner if you cannot see where you are going to end up. If you do end up feeling like you are going too fast around a corner, look for the exit and tell yourself you can make it. Many accidents happen when riders think they are going too fast but can actually make it.
Alcohol-Related Accidents
When a rider drinks and drives, alcohol impairs their judgment and slows reaction times. As a result, it is a primary factor in severe and fatal collisions.
How To Avoid It: Do not ride if you have been drinking. It is even more dangerous to do so when riding a motorcycle than driving a passenger vehicle since it requires balance and coordination to keep the bike upright.
If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a collision, contact our Riverside motorcycle accident lawyers with any questions you might have.