In the United States, motorcycle accidents are a major cause of injury and death, with thousands of riders losing their lives each year. Even though it has its own dangers and risks, riders still take the chance to enjoy the experience of riding a motorcycle.
In this article, we will examine the causes of motorcycle accidents and what riders can do to minimize their risk of injury or death.
Causes of motorcycle accidents
Motorcycle accidents account for nearly 15 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities. In 2020, there were 30,573 motorcycles registered in Mississippi and 114,901 registered in Alabama.
The most recent data on motorcycle accidents from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) names Mississippi as the most dangerous state in the U.S. for motorcyclists.
The leading cause of motorcycle accidents is driver error. Many drivers are simply not paying attention when they encounter a motorcycle on the road.
They may not see the motorcycle because of its smaller size, or they may not understand the speed and agility of the motorcycle. Other drivers may lose focus because of their cell phones, radios, or other distractions, making it even more difficult for them to see a motorcycle and react in time.
Another common cause of motorcycle accidents is road conditions. Potholes, gravel, and other road hazards can pose a serious risk to riders.
Poorly maintained roads can cause a motorcycle to lose control, leading to a crash. Additionally, inclement weather, such as rain or snow, can make the roads slick and slippery, making it more difficult for riders to stay in control of their motorcycles.
In addition to driver error and road conditions, defective motorcycle parts can also cause motorcycle accidents. For example, a faulty tire or brake system can cause a rider to lose control and crash.
Manufacturers of motorcycles and motorcycle parts have a responsibility to ensure that their products are safe and free of defects. If a rider suffers an injury as a result of a defective motorcycle or motorcycle part, they may qualify to pursue compensation for their injuries.
Did you know?
Motorcyclists represented 14.6% of all traffic fatalities and 3.5% of all injuries in 2022, despite motorcycles making up just 3% of all registered vehicles and 0.7% of all vehicle miles traveled in the United states.
Protect yourself
To minimize their risk of injury or death in a motorcycle accident, riders should always wear protective gear, including a helmet, gloves, and protective clothing. This gear can help to reduce the severity of injuries if a rider is involved in a crash.
Additionally, riders should take a motorcycle safety course to learn how to ride safely and avoid accidents. Riders should also be aware of their surroundings and the road conditions at all times.
They should avoid riding in inclement weather and be extra cautious in areas with high traffic, such as intersections and construction zones. They should also be aware of other vehicles on the road, including cars, trucks, and other motorcycles, and be prepared to react if necessary.
Did you know?
Wearing helmets reduces the risk of serious injury or death in a crash by up to 67%.
What should I do after a motorcycle accident?
It is important to seek medical attention immediately after you have been involved in a motorcycle accident. This may entitle you to compensation for your injuries and damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In order to pursue compensation effectively, we recommend hiring a personal injury attorney to help you with your case. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you to understand your rights and fight for the compensation that you deserve.
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