6 Types Of Motorcycle Accidents You Should Be Familiar With

Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with some risks. Motorcycle accidents are all too common and can lead to serious injuries or even death. Riders need to understand the different types of motorcycle accidents that occur so they can take steps to avoid them. We’ll discuss six of the most common types of motorcycle accidents and what you need to know to stay safe on the road.

1. Collisions with Cars and Trucks

This is one of the most common types of motorcycle accidents, particularly when a car or truck fails to see the motorcyclist. Because motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles on the road, they can be hard for drivers to spot.

In these instances, the motorcyclist often bears the brunt of the damage due to the sheer size difference between a motorcycle and a larger vehicle. To navigate the complexities of such accidents, consulting with a motorcycle injury lawyer can be a wise decision.

These legal professionals are well-versed in the specific challenges that motorcyclists face on the road and can provide invaluable support in ensuring that the rider’s rights are protected. They can assist in gathering necessary evidence, such as traffic camera footage or eyewitness accounts, to establish the liability of the other driver and help secure fair compensation for any injuries sustained. Their expertise becomes crucial, especially when dealing with insurance companies that might be reluctant to offer a fair settlement.

Getting into an accident with an Uber or Lyft is also possible and these accidents require special consideration.

If you get into such an accident, consulting with St. Louis Uber & Lyft Accident Attorneys can help you to get the compensation you are entitled to. And, you’ll have a better chance of proving fault. Additionally, to help reduce your risk in this situation, make sure you always ride defensively and that you use turn signals so cars know where you’re going.

2. Losing Control

Another common type of accident occurs when a rider loses control of their bike due to excessive speed, poor road surface conditions, or simply inexperienced riding skills. To avoid this type of accident, ride within your limits and take extra care if the roads are wet or slippery.

Also, make sure your bike is properly maintained so it won’t malfunction while you’re riding. Motorcycles tend to have more mechanical problems than cars, so it’s extra important to be aware of this. And if you’re a new rider, take the time to learn how to properly handle your motorcycle before heading out on the roads.

3. Head-On Collisions

These are one of the most dangerous types of motorcycle accidents because they can occur at high speeds and cause serious injury or death. To reduce your risk, always look both ways before entering a roadway and never try to pass other vehicles on two-lane roads.

Additionally, be aware of your speed and the speed of other vehicles around you, as even a small difference in speed can have disastrous consequences. Be sure to always wear appropriate safety gear, such as a helmet, boots, gloves, and protective clothing. If you encounter an unavoidable head-on collision, remember to brake firmly but not too hard.

4. Lane Splitting Accidents

Lane splitting occurs when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of traffic moving in the same direction. This maneuver can be risky because cars may not expect it and could change lanes without notice, resulting in an accident.

If you choose to lane split, make sure you do so slowly and carefully, checking twice for any sudden changes in traffic. When in doubt, avoid lane splitting altogether.

5. Left-Turn Accidents

This type of accident often occurs when a car turns left in front of a motorcycle that is going straight through an intersection. As the motorcyclist is usually traveling at a faster speed than the car, they can’t stop in time and may crash into the side of the vehicle. To help prevent this type of accident, make sure you always use your turn signal and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary.

While it’s important to be aware of the other cars on the road, you should always be extra vigilant when riding a motorcycle. Be sure to check your mirrors and make sure there are no cars in your blind spot before turning left. It’s also wise to slow down slightly as you approach an intersection.

6. Roadway Obstacle Accidents

Motorcycles are more likely than cars to encounter obstacles on the road such as potholes, debris, or even animals. If an obstacle is encountered unexpectedly, it can cause a rider to lose control and crash.

To reduce your risk in this situation, keep an eye out for anything that may be on the road and take extra care when traveling at night or in bad weather. Some riders even use headlight modulators to increase their visibility when riding in low-light conditions. Additionally, wearing protective gear such as a helmet and armored clothing can help reduce the risk of injury if an accident does occur.

Riding a motorcycle can be a thrilling experience, but it is important to understand the risks involved and take steps to stay safe on the roads. Familiarizing yourself with the types of accidents outlined above will help you become a more aware and responsible rider. By following these tips, you’ll be better equipped to avoid collisions and ride safely.