Staying Safe on Two Wheels: What Is the Main Cause of Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcyclists in Missouri face a significant risk on the roads, with a disproportionately high number of traffic fatalities attributed to motorcycle accidents.

In 2020, the FARS (Fatality Analysis Reporting System) recorded the highest number of motorcyclist deaths since its establishment in 1975, marking a double-digit growth from the previous year.

This sobering statistic underscores the inherent risks faced by motorcycle riders and highlights the need for increased awareness of safety measures.

Furthermore, in this article, riders will learn about the various causes of motorcycle accidents, analyze the dangers associated with riding motorcycles, and discuss ways to get fair compensation. Powell Law Firm can also answer questions like, "Where do most motorcycle accidents occur?"

Contributing Factors and Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes occur all too often, leading to devastating consequences for riders and their families. In Missouri, these accidents can result from various factors, including reckless driving, inexperience, and alcohol use.

Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help motor vehicle drivers take necessary precautions to minimize the risk of collisions and injuries.

Reckless Driving, Alcohol Use, and Speeding

Reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding and driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, are significant contributors to motorcycle crashes.

Motorcyclists are more likely to be involved in fatal accidents involving alcohol than drivers of passenger vehicles or light trucks. Speeding increases the severity of crashes and compromises the effectiveness of safety devices, such as seat belts and airbags.

Head-on Collisions

Head-on collisions between motorcycles and other motor vehicles can lead to severe injuries and fatalities. These accidents often result from vehicles departing their lane and traveling into the way of an oncoming motorcycle.

While head-on collisions are relatively rare, they account for a significant proportion of fatal motorcycle accidents.

Lane-splitting and Lane-switching

In some states, lane-splitting is allowed, enabling motorcyclists to ride between lanes of stopped traffic or slow-moving. However, this practice is illegal in Missouri and can contribute to accidents when drivers do not see motorcycles approaching from behind.

On the other hand, lane-switching accidents often involve vehicle operators failing to notice motorcycles in their blind spots when changing lanes.

Inexperience and Inattention

Inexperience and inattention are common factors in many motorcycle accidents. New riders may not be adequately prepared for the challenges of navigating roads and highways, leading to collisions and injuries.

Distractions and loss of focus can also significantly reduce a motorcyclist's reaction time when facing sudden dangers.

Corner-turning and Left-turn Accidents

Intersection accidents, such as left-turn collisions, can occur when vehicle drivers fail to yield to oncoming motorcyclists. Moreover, these accidents can be especially dangerous for motorcycle riders, who have little protection in the event of a crash.

Similarly, corner-turning accidents can result from motorcyclists entering turns too quickly and losing control of their bikes.

Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries for Personal Injury Claims

Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe, life-altering injuries within seconds. These injuries can significantly impact the person's future, often forming the basis for personal injury claims. Some of the most severe injuries sustained in motorbike crashes include:

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)

TBIs and head injuries are among the most devastating wounds resulting from motorcycle accidents.

The effects of brain injuries can range from mild to severe, with symptoms including dizziness, fatigue, hearing problems, and personality changes. Motorcyclists who suffer from TBIs may face long-term physical and cognitive challenges.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries can have devastating consequences, often resulting in the loss of sensory and nerve functions below the affected area of the spine.

Paralysis of the arms, legs, trunk, and pelvic organs can occur, making these injuries particularly devastating for motorcycle riders involved in crashes.

Broken Bone Injuries

Motorcycle crash victims may suffer fractures in any part of the body. Lower extremity wounds are common and can include fractures or breaks in the femur, fibula, pelvis, and tibia.

Furthermore, these broken bones often require extensive treatment and rehabilitation, impacting the rider's quality of life.

Road Rash Wounds

A rider can experience road rash, also known as road burn, when they fall from their bike onto the asphalt, resulting in a painful motorcycle injury.

These injuries are not only painful but can also lead to bleeding and infection. Moreover, road rash injuries require proper medical care to minimize the risk of complications.

Assessing the Range of Damages in Motorcycle Collision Cases

In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, those affected may be eligible for various types of damages to help cover the financial and emotional burdens of the collision. Victims often pursue the following categories of damages in motorcycle crash cases:

Medical Expenses

Medical expenses are a significant aspect of damages in motorcycle collisions. These include ambulance transport, hospitalization, emergency room care, diagnostic imaging, surgeries, and physical therapy.

Additionally, the cost of medical care can be substantial, highlighting the importance of pursuing compensation for these expenses.

Lost Earnings

Motorcycle accidents can lead to missed work and lost wages, further compounding the financial strain on the injured party. Compensation for lost earnings helps to alleviate this burden and ensure the victim's economic stability during the recovery process.

Pain and Suffering

The physical and emotional distress caused by a motorcycle crash can be significant. Pain and suffering damages aim to provide compensation for the non-economic impacts of the accident, helping victims to cope with the ongoing emotional and psychological challenges they may face.

It is crucial for those involved in an incident to seek legal advice before engaging with insurance representatives or accepting any compensation offers. Experienced motorcycle accident attorneys can help ensure that the victim receives the full and fair compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses.

Takeaway

Understanding the causes of motorcycle accidents is crucial to promoting safer roads for all users. Reported motorcycle crashes result from various factors, including car accidents involving motorcycle operators. Powell Law Firm and provide insight on factors that affect a motorcycle accident claim in Missouri.

These collisions can lead to fatal crashes and serious injuries, highlighting the importance of increased awareness and preventive measures to minimize the risks associated with motorcycle travel.

When victims face the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, they should trust the experienced and dedicated team at Powell Law Firm to relentlessly pursue justice and secure the compensation they deserve.