Motorcycles offer an incredibly exciting joy ride for anyone wanting to feel the wind in their hair. However, they also come with a certain amount of danger on the road. With less protecting you, you’re harder to notice than other cars and more likely to suffer injuries in a collision. So, if you’re planning to go for a ride yourself, it’s important that you know what some of the most common types of motorcycle accidents are. This way, you can be properly prepared to avoid them.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are some of the riskiest for motorcyclists. These accidents involve a car hitting a motorcycle from the front, often sending the rider onto the oncoming vehicle’s windshield. These types of collisions can be catastrophic to the unprotected party and, unfortunately, tend to result in death. Because of this, it’s vital that you’re aware of what’s in front of you at all times and stay out of the direct line of impact.
Left-Hand Turns
Left turns are also incredibly hazardous to motorcycle riders due to the extra distance they need to travel to complete the action. Turning left takes longer than turning right, and intersections aren’t always guarded. This increases the likelihood of a driver running a red light and hitting a turning rider. Since motorcycles are smaller, they’re much harder to see, raising that risk even further.
Lane Splitting
Another of the most common types of motorcycle accidents is called lane splitting. This occurs when motorcyclists drive between two lanes in the middle of a traffic jam. These situations are dangerous because there’s no telling when a driver could react or try to change lanes. Some might try to squeeze out of a tight spot when you least expect it, hitting a rider in the process.
Sudden Stops
Sudden stops are an issue as well. These collisions occur when a car stops with no notice, and the motorcyclist has no time to react accordingly. This causes them to run into the rear bumper and injure themselves. So, be careful that you aren’t following too close to a vehicle and that you’re always giving yourself the right amount of time to respond to hazards.
Motorcycle injuries tend to be severe, and you should always seek to prevent accidents like these rather than respond after the fact. However, in some cases, this isn’t always possible. In such incidents, you can protect yourself by contacting an injury attorney and familiarizing yourself with the next steps. Any action you take now can save your life when it comes down to it.
