Motorcycle collisions in Massachusetts are much more likely to result in catastrophic injuries or deaths than other types of crashes. In 2019, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that 5,014 motorcyclists were killed in collisions in the U.S. By understanding what causes motorcycle accidents, you might be able to take steps to reduce your risk of being involved in a serious collision.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
So, what causes motorcycle accidents? Like other types of collisions, motorcycle accidents can involve many different forms of negligence. Some of the common causes of motorcycle crashes include the following:
- Speeding
- Aggressive driving
- Following too close
- Inattentive driving
- Distracted driving
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Rider inexperience
- Road defects
Some of the most common types of motorcycle accidents are detailed below.
Head-On Motorcycle Collisions
In a head-on motorcycle collision, a car will strike the front of the motorcycle. These types of accidents frequently occur on two-lane roads when a motorist attempts to pass around a curve or up a hill in a no-passing zone. Many of these types of collisions also involve drugs or alcohol. Head-on motorcycle collisions are frequently fatal to the motorcycle rider.
Cars Turning Left in Front of Oncoming Motorcyclists
Many motorcycle crashes involve cars turning left onto a highway or street without noticing oncoming motorcyclists. These accidents commonly happen when the oncoming motorists are traveling straight through intersections, passing a vehicle, or attempting to overtake a vehicle. Since motorcycles are smaller than cars or trucks, drivers might not expect to see them and turn left into them or in front of them without giving the motorcyclist enough time to stop to avoid a crash.
Lane-Splitting Collisions
Lane-splitting is illegal in many states, including Massachusetts. This occurs when a motorcyclist drives between lanes of stopped or slow-moving cars in traffic jams. Lane-splitting is dangerous because the motorcyclist has less room to maneuver. The motorists also will not anticipate that a motorcycle will be passing them between lanes.
Alcohol or Drugs
Many motorcycle accidents are caused by either the motorcyclist or the motorist after they have consumed alcohol or drugs. Motorcyclists have little to protect them from the forces of a collision, and alcohol- or drug-related crashes involving motorcyclists are much likelier to be fatal to the riders.
Fixed Object Collisions
Some accidents involving motorcycles are collisions with fixed objects. For example, a motorcyclist might lose control and leave the road, striking a tree or road sign. This type of accident can happen when a motorcyclist is speeding and rounds a curve too quickly. It can also happen in inclement weather conditions or when a motorcyclist strikes debris in the road, loose gravel, or a pothole.
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Get Help from an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcyclists have a much greater risk of being seriously injured or killed when they are involved in accidents. However, people who ride motorcycles can reduce their risks by knowing what causes motorcycle accidents and taking proactive steps to avoid the dangers. Motorists should also make sure to watch for motorcyclists and to always keep their attention focused on the road while driving.
If you have sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle collision or have lost your loved one in a motorcycle wreck that was caused by someone else, you should talk to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney at Ellis & Associates as soon as possible. We can review your potential case for free during a no-obligation consultation, explain your case’s legal merits, and discuss your legal options. Call us today at 1-800-MR-ELLIS or send us a message online.