Motorcycle accidents can be particularly dangerous due to the lack of protection riders have compared to those in cars. Understanding the common causes of these accidents can help riders take steps to stay safe while out riding.
Distracted driving
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents, affecting both motorcyclists and other drivers. Texting, eating, or even adjusting the radio can easily divert a driver’s attention from the road long enough to miss a motorcyclist in their path.
To avoid accidents caused by distractions, always keep your focus on the road. As a motorcyclist, remain aware of your surroundings and anticipate that other drivers might not see you. If you’re driving a car, make a habit of double-checking for motorcycles, especially when changing lanes or making turns.
Left-turn accidents
Left-turn accidents frequently happen when a vehicle turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. The smaller size of motorcycles can make them harder to see, and drivers often misjudge their speed.
As a motorcyclist, approach intersections with caution and be prepared to take quick action if necessary. For drivers, always check for oncoming traffic, and remember that motorcycles are often closer and faster than they appear.
Lane splitting
Lane splitting, where a motorcycle rides between two lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, can lead to accidents. Although legal in some states, lane splitting is not allowed in Virginia.
Motorcyclists should avoid lane splitting to reduce the risk of accidents. When traffic slows, stay within your lane and maintain a safe following distance to ensure you have enough time to react to sudden changes.
Speeding
Speeding significantly reduces the time both motorcyclists and drivers have to react to sudden changes on the road, increasing the severity of accidents when they occur. This is why 34% of motorcycle fatalities involved speeding.
To avoid this risk, adhere to the speed limit and adjust your speed according to road conditions. Motorcyclists should exercise extra caution on winding roads or in heavy traffic, where the dangers of speeding become even more pronounced.
Staying safe on Virginia’s roads
Understanding and addressing the common causes of motorcycle accidents can significantly reduce your risk on the road. Whether you ride a motorcycle or drive a car, being aware of these dangers and taking proactive steps to avoid them will contribute to making the roads safer for everyone.