Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, 562 motorcyclists were killed on Texas roadways in 2022, and 2,422 motorcyclists suffered severe injuries. Understanding the most common causes of motorcycle accidents can help you avoid a collision and reduce the risk of being seriously injured in a motorcycle accident.

What Is the Main Cause of Motorcycle Accidents?

The leading cause of motorcycle accidents is other driver’s failure to see motorcycles in traffic. Their smaller size and the motorcyclist’s position on the bike can make them more difficult to see. Multiple factors can contribute to a driver’s failure to see a motorcycle, including distracted and drunk driving, drowsy driving, and failing to do a head check before changing lanes.

Regardless of the cause, motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries. If you were injured or someone you love was killed in a Texas motorcycle accident, the motorcycle accident injury lawyers at McKinney Vos can help. We have helped thousands of Texas accident victims and their families. Let us deal with the insurance company so you can focus on healing from your injuries and putting the pieces back together after a motorcycle accident.

How Motorcycle Accidents Can Happen

While the leading cause of motorcycle accidents is another driver’s failure to see the rider, multiple factors can be involved in causing motorcycle accidents. Many involve negligence on the part of the other driver.

Turning Left at an Intersection

More than 40% of motorcycle accidents happen when the other vehicle turns left in front of the motorcycle and the motorcycle goes straight, passes, or overtakes another vehicle.

Changing Lanes

Another leading cause of motorcycle accidents is when the driver fails to do a head check before changing lanes. The motorcycle might be in the driver’s blind spot, or the driver simply may not see the motorcycle. When the vehicle changes lanes, it crashes into the bike.

Following Too Closely

Following too closely is another common cause of motorcycle accidents. Because motorcycles are smaller and weigh less, they have shorter stopping distances. A driver who is following too closely may not have time to stop, which can lead to a rear-end crash. A rear-end collision can cause serious injuries or even be fatal for the rider.

Failure to Yield the Right of Way

Some motorcycle accidents occur when the other vehicle pulls out in front of the motorcycle. After a motorcycle accident, many drivers claim they did not see the bike.

Dangerous Road Conditions

Potholes, cracks in the pavement, pooled water, and other poor road conditions are another common cause of motorcycle accidents.

Drunk, Distracted, and Drowsy Driving

Drowsy driving and driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol are other common causes of motorcycle accidents. Drivers who are impaired, whether because they are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol, are less likely to see a motorcycle, which can lead to serious accidents.

How to Avoid the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

While you cannot eliminate the risks of riding a motorcycle, you can protect yourself from the most severe injuries after a motorcycle accident.

• Check the weather before riding, and, when possible, avoid riding in adverse weather conditions.
• Wear appropriate riding gear, such as a brightly colored motorcycle jacket, a helmet, pants, gloves, body armor, hearing and eye protection, and reinforced boots.
• Watch other drivers and expect the unexpected.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
• Obey all traffic laws.
• Be prepared to react quickly.

While the rider’s actions do not affect who is liable for causing the crash, a biker’s failure to protect themselves could affect the compensation they receive for their injuries. For example, a motorcyclist who suffers head injuries but was not wearing a helmet might receive less than someone who could have helped prevent such serious injuries by following the law.

When a Motorcycle Crash Causes Injuries, Contact McKinney Vos

Knowing some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents can help you stay vigilant and protect yourself on the road. But despite taking all appropriate precautions, you can still be hurt in a motorcycle accident.

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, McKinney Vos can help. Let us handle your case and negotiate with the insurance company so you can focus on healing. We will gather evidence about the crash, such as investigative reports, 911 calls, witness statements, surveillance videos, and photos of the accident scene and property damage. We will work to convince the other driver and their insurance company to accept responsibility and compensate you for your injuries. We will handle your case compassionately and fight for the compensation you and your family deserve.

To learn more about our services and what to expect, contact the motorcycle accident injury lawyers at McKinney Vos today.