What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?

Nearly 3,000 motorcycle accidents in Arizona occurred in 2017, making it clear that motorcycle crashes are an unfortunate reality of life.

According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, motorcycle wrecks are more likely to result in serious injuries and fatalities when compared to car accidents. Due to the nature of riding, more than 80% of all reported motorcycle collisions result in injury or death to the rider.

It’s important to be aware of the physics of motorcycle crashes. Furthermore, driving defensively on your motorcycle and staying prepared both go a long way in preventing these serious incidents.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash in Arizona, contact our Phoenix motorcycle accident attorneys at ELG. Our team of accident lawyers has years of experience fighting for victims and is ready to help you today with a free consultation.

Motorcycle Wrecks Caused by Inertia

When a driver brings their motorcycle to a sudden stop, they and their passenger will continue to move. At that point, it’s possible for both to eject from the vehicle, depending on variables such as the bike’s deceleration, frictional forces between the rider and her seat, and even the surface of the road. Per the law of momentum, the faster a motorcycle goes, the longer it will take to stop. A rider ejected from a bike at 50 mph will—according to idealized physics—fly twice as far as one ejected at just 25 mph.

Stay Aware of Traffic Laws

You can take steps to remain as safe as possible on your motorcycle. First,  make sure you stay aware of risks on the road and the risk of motorcycle riding. Because there is no steel frame protection and no airbags on a bike, motorcycle riders are subject to more critical injuries in a crash. Typically, bikers must rely on a helmet, protective clothing, and their own skills in an accident.

That means that motorcycle riders must also be aware of other drivers on the road. Other motorists may not see motorcycles due to their smaller size, especially in the dark. In fact, when a collision occurs between a motorcycle and another vehicle, it’s often because the driver did not see the motorcyclist before the accident occurred.

Use common sense and observe all traffic laws each time you ride. Refrain from speeding, and though it may not be illegal in every state, don’t lane split. Splitting lanes frequently cause motorcycle accidents. Furthermore, don’t ride in poor weather and ensure you always wear proper riding gear.

Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Phoenix

It’s important to protect yourself while riding. The best way to ensure you stay safe when riding is to follow these steps. But if you do sustain injuries in a motorcycle wreck, contact your attorney right away. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, our Phoenix motorcycle accident attorneys at ELG are here to help. Call us at (623) 877-3600 for a no-obligation free consultation and legal representation today.