Motorcycle crashes are some of the deadliest events that occur on roadways. Although motorcyclists make up only about 3% of drivers, they account for 14% of all motor vehicle fatalities, according to the National Safety Council. This disproportionate number of fatalities is often attributed to several issues that put motorcyclists at an increased risk of harm. Here are seven factors that can make motorcycle crashes more likely:
- Inattentive drivers
- Many drivers do not give motorcyclists enough room for braking or maneuvering, either out of lack of consideration or because they are not paying attention. This can be due to distracted driving, or it may be simply because they do not give motorcycles the same consideration they do to other vehicles on the road.
- High speeds
- Speeding is a common contributor to motor vehicle crashes of all kinds, and motorcycle crashes are no exception. The faster a driver goes, the more likely they are to get into a crash with another driver.
- Driving at night
- Night time is always terrible in terms of visibility, but it can be even worse for motorcyclists. It is sadly common for drivers to not notice a motorcycle in the dark until it is too late to avoid a collision.
- Bad weather
- Rain, fog, snow, and ice can also pose major dangers that can increase the risk of motorcycle crashes. The worse the weather is, the higher the likelihood that aa crash will occur.
- Poorly maintained roads
- Weather is not the only thing that can make a road dangerous, however. If the road itself has not been well-maintained, it can be pitted with potholes that can cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Exhaustion
- When drivers are fatigued, they are far more likely to make a mistake, making the risk of a crash much more likely. In the worst-case scenario, they can even fall asleep behind the wheel, losing control potentially colliding with others nearby.
- Intoxication
- When people drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they substantially increase the risk of motorcycle crashes, as well as other types of crashes. This is due to a combination of factors, including worse reaction times, impaired judgment, and decreased motor control.
Fox Law Firm, PLLC is a New York personal injury law practice serving clients throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. With over three decades of law practice experience, attorneys Kevin Fox and Dan Fox have helped their clients recover the compensation they deserve. For more information or to ask for a consultation, call our Riverhead office at 631-779-3400 or visit our contact page.
