Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Author: Joshua D. Brabant

Spring is here and motorcyclists are getting back out on the road. There are inherent risks to riding a motorcycle. Some of the risks unique to motorcycle riding include:

• Low visibility– the smaller size of motorcycles can lead to easily missing seeing one in your mirrors or blind spot. This is especially true on highways where people change lanes often and at intersections.
• Road Hazards – potholes, random objects, wet pavement and uneven road surfaces can cause a motorcycle accident.
• Less protection on a motorcycle – Unlike passengers in a car, bikers are not protected by a container of metal. Motorcycles also don’t have seatbelts, and most don’t have airbags. Wearing a motorcycle helmet can offer some protection to bikers, and motorcyclists who don’t wear helmets are more likely to die in an accident than those that do.
• Stability – Vehicles with two wheels are less stable than those with four, especially during emergency braking and swerving. Also, some motorcycle accidents are caused by front wheel “wobble” that can occur at high speeds.
• Skill – Riding a motorcycle requires a high level of skill. Unskilled riders account for a disproportionate number of motorcycle accidents.

While riding a motorcycle can be risky, riders can take steps to make trips safer. By getting professional training, being aware of and avoiding road hazards, maintaining the bike, not sharing lanes with cars and wearing protective clothing and head gear, riders can decrease their risk of accidents.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Massachusetts call Brabant & Huynh LLP at 617-934-0913 for your motocycle accident evaluation. We are located in Quincy and Dorchester and serve the greater Boston area. We will be glad to help you evaluate your case and ease the burden of going through the process.