Motorcycles are one of the most convenient ways to move around. As more people embrace this mode of transport, more motorcycle accidents are reported. Unfortunately motorcycle accidents can be deadly; in fact the fatality rate is 30 times higher than car accidents. To help prevent them, one needs to know what causes these accidents.
Over Speeding
One of the main causes of accidents is speeding. While there are areas where you can drive above the speed limit, you need to exercise caution. Going too fast makes stopping harder, especially when something happens on the road. You should ride at a speed that is easy to stop, switch lanes, and even notice what is happening around you.
Lane Switching
If you observe traffic, you will notice that some cars switch lanes without proper indication. On the back of big trucks is written: “If you can’t see my mirrors, I can’t see you.” Most times, when a car switches and you have no idea, you run the risk of ramming into them. The situation is more prevalent when trucks switch lanes. To avoid this, always be careful, especially when lane splitting. The best solution would be to drive in the designated bike lane as this is away from all the cars switching lanes at will.
Head-on Collision
Data shows that 56% of motorcycle accidents are caused by head-on collisions with vehicles on the road. These accidents are more fatal for the biker than the car owners. The severity of the injuries depends on how fast the car and the motorcycle were going at the point of impact. It also depends on whether the cyclist was crushed or catapulted when the two crushed into each other. You can avoid such accidents by observing road rules and being weary of reckless drivers.
Reckless Driving
Most reckless drivers affect others on the road more than they do themselves. Some of the drivers drive drunk, overspeed, or ignore road rules. Drunk driving accidents can be particularly dangerous for riders and may result in traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, burns, loss of limbs and even death. While there is nothing a cyclist can do to prevent such an accident, it does help to be keen on the road. Doing this will help you notice when someone behaves differently on the road and avoid collisions with them.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is a common mistake most motorcyclists make. It happens when one is in traffic congestion or slow-moving cars. Accidents in this situation happen because of the increased proximity between the car and the motorcycle. Since cars don’t lane split, most drivers might try to change lanes at the last minute without expecting you. With little space to maneuver or turn, motorcycles tend to ram into cars at any slight change in movement. The only way to avoid this is to avoid lane splitting. Waiting in traffic can be annoying, but it beats the danger you put yourself in when lane splitting.
The number of motorcycle accidents can put you off riding. However, if you observe the right laws and stay safe on the road, you can still enjoy riding without an issue. In the event of an accident, always ensure you get checked out and that any injuries are treated. It also helps always to contact your insurance provider if you need compensation.
