Five Common Motorcycle Accidents and How to Avoid Them
Motorcyclists face different risks than typical vehicle drivers. Perhaps an obvious point, but one that has yet to impact significantly safer rider and driver trends in California. A common Pasadena motorcycle accident story: “The view of a motorcyclist and another vehicle driver became impeded by sun glare on the morning commute. The vehicle changed lanes. Impact.”
The goal of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is to move beyond understanding causes, toward actions and habits that will “Save lives, prevent injuries, and reduce vehicle-related crashes.” With the input of several California and national studies, including the most comprehensive NHTSA supported study called, Motorcycle Accident Cause Factors and Identification of Countermeasures (aka The Hurt Report), here are 5 Common Motorcycle Accidents and steps to take if you’d prefer to avoid your very own Pasadena motorcycle accident:
How to avoid it: This takes the mutual efforts of both drivers and riders. The Hurt Report revealed, “The failure of motorists to detect and recognize motorcycles in traffic was the predominating cause of motorcycle-car accidents.” In these cases, the driver often reports that they did not see the motorcycle until it was already too late. Practicing routine and repeated mirror and over-the-shoulder pre-lane change checks can help prevent some of these accidents. Motorcyclists need to remember that drivers need more assistance in looking for and seeing you. Also be on the lookout for signs or obvious signals of lane changes. Be ready for evasive maneuvers, and do not unnecessarily overpass vehicles in tight lanes.
How to avoid it: Agree on the etiquette you will follow when riding with groups, and know the preferred formation. Someone will undoubtedly need to stop. Be the rider that pays attention and does not get easily distracted, and remind your buddies to do the same.
How to avoid it: Don’t ever ride in “no-man’s land,” that area next to parked cars where you are in the reach of a car door, or a person walking between cars. Drivers can also help by taking an extra glance out the window before opening your car door.
How to avoid it: Both riders and drivers struggle with visibility and riskier road conditions in rough weather. Take safety during these times more seriously, travel at a reasonably slower speed, and have tires that give you the best shot at success on the road.
How to avoid it: Don’t drink and drive. The number of deaths in single-vehicle motorcycle crashes where riders have a blood alcohol concentration at or above 0.10% has hovered in common studies near 40%. Commit to sober driving, and help promote that commitment to other riders and drivers.
Many accidents are avoidable, and while that is the goal, when a motorcycle accident occurs, take necessary road cautions, contact the proper authorities, and consult with the Pasadena motorcycle accident attorneys at Andrew Ritholz Law.
