What Are The Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

August 24, 2018

Riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling, yet dangerous experience. The chances of sustaining serious and disabling injuries are increased for motorcyclists compared to other types of accidents on the roadway.

In 2017, there were 2,907 motorcycle accidents that resulted in 161 fatalities and 2,413 injuries to motorcyclists and their passengers, according to the Arizona Department of Transportation. Five of the most common reasons for these accidents are detailed below.

Our dedicated Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyers at Phillips Law Group want you to stay safe while on the road. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident and need help with your claim, schedule a free legal consultation with us today.

1. Left-Hand Turns

One of the most common motorcycle accidents occurs when themotorcyclist or other motorist is making a left-hand turn and collides with oncoming traffic.

These accidents can happen when:

• A motorcyclist going straight through an intersection is hit by a motorist turning left
• A motorist passing another vehicle hits a motorcyclist going through the intersection or turning left

2. Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions can occur when motorists are distracted or do not yield to a motorcyclist who has the right-of-way.

This type of accident is often fatal. The motorcyclist may be thrown from the motorcycle upon impact. Head-on collisions can also result in life-altering injuries such as traumatic brain injuries and paralysis.

3. Lane Splitting

Land splitting occurs when the motorcyclist drives between vehicles between two lanes of stopped or slow-moving traffic. This type of driving maneuver can increase the likelihood of an accident.

Lane splitting is dangerous due to the following factors:

• Close proximity between the motorcycle and other vehicles
• Lack of visibility when other motorists do not see or anticipate the nearby motorcyclist
• Reduced space for the motorcyclist to maneuver

4. Driving Under the Influence

Motorcycle accidents are more likely to occur when the motorcyclist or other motorist is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Impaired driving is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents in Arizona.

Driving under the influence affects a driver in the following ways:

• Delayed reaction time
• Impaired judgment
• Lowered inhibitions
• Increased likelihood of engaging in reckless behaviors

5. Speeding

Another common cause of motorcycle accidents is speeding. Motorcyclists may drive the speed limit but still drive too quickly around corners or other areas that makes the speed unsafe.

Motorists may speed and collide with motorcycles. When this occurs, the results are often tragic due to the limited protection that motorcyclists have.