3 common causes of motorcycle accidents in Missouri
Motorcycle accidents are more likely to cause serious injuries and fatalities than other accidents. Due to these serious potential risks and consequences, it is crucial for you to understand what causes most motorcycle accidents and how to ride safely. For example, the Missouri State Highway Patrol found that most motorcycle crashes are caused by car or truck drivers, not motorcyclists like you. Here is a closer look at common causes of motorcycle collisions and prevention tips.
1. Driver negligence
Negligent motorists are dangerous for motorcyclists. While you can practice all the safety tips in the world, you cannot control the reckless behavior of another person. Drivers cause motorcycle accidents by failing to properly check mirrors before turning left, or running a red light.
Distracted drivers and drunk drivers are even more careless, and their behaviors can result in devastating consequences for motorcyclists. Do your best to practice defensive riding techniques and increase your visibility to drivers to avoid these accidents.
2. Lane splitting
Sometimes the motorcyclist may contribute to an accident through unsafe behaviors, such as lane splitting. While it might be tempting to drive between cars in a traffic jam, you should avoid it due to the following risk factors:
- Inadequate space for you to maneuver
- Close proximity with cars
- Unaware drivers
Most drivers do not anticipate a motorcycle to pass them so closely while they are in slow or stopped traffic. While lane splitting does not automatically make the motorcyclist at fault, it can contribute to the accident, so avoid this unsafe practice.
3. Speeding
Riding a motorcycle is fun and exhilarating, and it gives you a sense of freedom, but you must avoid speeding. This is especially tempting if you have a high-performance bike. Make sure that you are always following the speed limit and not making the road a dangerous place for you or anyone else.
If you get injured in a motorcycle accident, make sure to get in touch with a personal injury attorney for help.