Knowing the Most Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles have a reputation for being dangerous — in fact, it’s part of the appeal. There’s nothing fun or appealing about wiping out on the open road, however. Pay attention to these common situations to best protect yourself:
- Vehicles making left-hand turns. Drivers already have a hard time spotting motorcycles, if they are watching for them at all. Unprotected left turns require drivers to pay attention to several different aspects of the roadway, making them even less likely to notice an oncoming motorcycle.
- Lane splitting. Motorcyclists who move in between vehicles in lanes are relying on drivers to plan for and notice their presence. If a motorist moves quickly without seeing the motorcycle, the rider has limited space to maneuver out of the hazardous situation.
- Road hazards. Motorcycles are not designed to handle rough roads the way cars, trucks and SUVs are. If a motorcycle hits a pothole, animal, object in the road or other irregularity, the rider may lose control and skid out.
- Collisions with fixed objects. About one-quarter of motorcycle deaths occur when the vehicle hits a fixed object, throwing the rider from the bike.
- Head-on collisions with cars. Head-on crashes are responsible for more than half of motorcycle fatalities, and usually occur when a passenger vehicle strikes the front of the bike.
It’s also important to keep in mind that motorcycle riders are required to wear helmets in Georgia, and they should also consider protective clothing made of durable material. And of course, riders should never operate their vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
If you or a family member has been injured in a motorcycle accident, consult an experienced Atlanta personal injury attorney with McMenamy Law LLC.
