A motorcycle accident can happen at any time. All it takes is one distracted driver or rogue pothole to cause a serious wreck. There are, however, certain scenarios in which these crashes are particularly common.
Motorcycle riders can reduce their risk of injuries and death by learning how to adjust their behavior in dangerous situations. Congested traffic, riding at night, poor weather – all of these factors increase the likelihood of crashing.
These five hazards are often the culprits behind motorcycle collisions:
- Alcohol consumption;
- Lane splitting;
- Poorly maintained roads;
- Motorists who are not paying attention when taking left turns; and
- Drivers who tailgate.
If you were hurt by a drunk, distracted or negligent driver in Louisiana, contact Morris Bart, LLC. Our legal team has been representing the injured for more than 30 years, and we have the knowledge and resources to help you recover the maximum compensation.
The at-fault driver may be liable for your medical bills, lost wages and other damages. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in New Orleans.
Read on for a closer look at five common causes of motorcycle crashes:
Alcohol Consumption
Riding a motorcycle requires exceptional balance, coordination and fast decision-making. All of these faculties are impaired by alcohol.
Data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reveals that alcohol consumption is a leading cause of motorcyclist fatalities. In 2014, 30 percent of all riders who lost their lives in accidents had a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher.
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Lane Splitting
One of the key benefits of riding motorcycles is their uncanny ability to skirt traffic. Many riders do this by “lane splitting,” or travelling between two lanes to bypass slow-moving vehicles. However, drivers are not always expecting riders to approach from behind at a much higher speed than the flow of traffic. All it takes is one distracted or complacent motorist to cause a wreck.
Poorly Maintained Roads
Passenger vehicles can usually handle uneven pavement and potholes with ease, but these hazards can be deadly for motorcyclists. As such, bikers should avoid riding on poorly maintained roads and unfamiliar routes.
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Motorists Who Are Not Paying Attention When They Take Left Turns
Ride Apart warns motorcyclists that left-turning vehicles are leading causes of motorcycle accidents. Due to their small size, motorcycles are not always easy to spot, and drivers often underestimate their speed.
Drivers Who Tailgate
In congested traffic, rear-end accidents are by far the most common type of motorcycle collision. The reason? Vehicles tend to have a shorter following distance in heavy traffic.
Riders can reduce their risk by maintaining at least three seconds of space between their bikes and the leading vehicle. If you are being tailgated, then change lanes and let the other driver pass.
If you were injured in a collision that a negligent driver caused, turn to Morris Bart, LLC. A Birmingham motorcycle accident lawyer will handle the legal aspects of your claim so you can focus on recovering from your injuries. Call 800-537-8185 today to schedule a free consultation.
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