What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
If you ride a motorcycle, you already know that it can be a risky pastime. While motorcycles can be thrilling to ride, they are also more dangerous than cars and even trucks. The reason is that the rider is more exposed than the driver of a motor vehicle. Thus, in the event of an accident, the rider is at risk of severe injuries. That’s why it is so important for motorcyclists to do everything they can to prevent motorcycle accidents.
In order to avoid motorcycle accidents, it can be helpful to understand what causes them in the first place. The more you know about what is likely to put you at risk, the better equipped you will be to protect yourself while you’re riding. Here are some of the things that are most likely to result in motorcycle accidents.
Riding under the influence of alcohol.
A significant number of motorcycle accidents happen because the rider is under the influence of alcohol or another intoxicating substance. Driving under the influence is no safer with motorcycles than it is with any other type of vehicle. It’s essential to make sure that you are always fully sober and alert whenever you are riding your motorcycle.
Riding while fatigued.
If you are severely fatigued, then it is not safe for you to ride your motorcycle. Operating a motorcycle safely means paying close attention to road conditions at all time, and being ready to react quickly to unexpected events. If your reflexes are slowed down as a result of fatigue, then you will be that much more vulnerable to being involved in a motorcycle accident.
Not checking your blind spot.
Just as with any other vehicle, you have a blind spot when you are riding your motorcycle. When you are preparing to change lanes, it’s important for you to check your blind spot. If you do not do this every time, then you are at risk of colliding with another vehicle. Always signal well before changing lanes, making sure to give other vehicles the chance to see and react to you.
Exceeding the speed limit.
Speed limits are in place to protect everybody on the road, and that includes motorcyclists. Make sure that you are paying attention to the current speed limit and that you are adhering to it at all times. While you may need to speed up in certain situations, going faster than the speed limit can make you much more likely to get into an accident.
Riding through unsafe road conditions.
It’s important to pay attention to your surrounding at all times whenever you’re operating any kind of motor vehicle. It’s also a good idea to avoid riding your motorcycle in unsafe conditions, if at all possible. For example, you should try to avoid riding in severe weather. You may also want to avoid roads with a lot of potholes. If you are inexperienced at riding your motorcycle on the highway, you may want to begin with short excursions before you try taking a major trip.
Are you looking for an injury lawyer near Temecula, CA? If so, then it’s time to get in touch with The Baum Law Firm. Our law firm has been representing individuals in their injury claims for the past six decades, so we bring plenty of legal experience to each client’s case. Our areas of practice include motorcycle accidents, drownings, dog attacks, wrongful death, and bus accidents. Remember: Unless we recover money in your case, you will not owe us any fees. If you would like to contact us today to schedule a free telephone consultation, then call (951) 200-4265.