Motorcycle Accidents: Common Causes
No ride ever thinks that they will be involved in a motorcycle accident. But the truth is that motorcycle accidents have been increasing at an alarming rate, so every rider must understand the danger and risks when heading out on their two-wheeled vehicle. Because motorcyclists lack a protective structure, they are more likely to suffer severe or fatal injuries when they are involved in a collision.
Look at some of the most common motorcycle accidents, so you can take preventative measures, be well alerted when riding, and reach home safely. East Bay Motorsports is your most trusted motorcycle dealer in Hayward, CA. Visit us for all your motorcycle needs.
Drivers Fail to See Riders
In many accidents involving a passenger vehicle, the driver does not notice the motorcyclist in time to divert or stop. While this might not be the biker’s fault, always avoid riding too close to other cars, and steer away from vehicle’s blindspots. Try your best to make yourself visible.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are one of the most common causes of serious or fatal injuries. It usually happens when a car changes lanes, attempting to pass slow-moving vehicles, and oftentimes drivers fail to see motorcyclists coming in the same direction. For the best prevention, bikers must always be cautious and watch for oncoming traffic.
Vehicles Making Left Turn
Generally, left-turn accidents are common for all types of vehicles, but bikers are more likely to be severely injured. These types of collisions usually occur when the motorcyclist is going straight through an intersection or trying to pass the car, then the driver makes a left turn. Even though you have the right of way, approach an intersection with caution.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of stopped or slowly moving vehicles and is most common in traffic jams or large cities. The biker rides close to adjacent cars with very limited space to maneuver, which creates a dangerous situation. This is a very common cause of motorcycle accidents that has led some states to prohibit this type of riding.
Speeding
Not all motorcycle accidents are the fault of other drivers. Sometimes, riders take dangerous risks, such as speeding. Riding at extreme velocities increases the risk of being involved in some type of collision and suffering severe injuries. A biker who is speeding has less control and less ability to quickly stop to avoid a car or other road obstacle, such as wildlife crossing the road.
We hope that this information makes you more aware of the risks when riding your motorcycle. For more common causes of motorcycle accidents, contact East Bay Motorsports, or stop by our location in Hayward, CA, to have a chat with us. We are your number one motorcycle provider meeting all your needs from parts to service to finance. We also welcome all riders from the Bay Area.