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HomeBlogMotorcycle AccidentsWhat Are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

What Are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle accidents can be life-altering, leaving riders with severe injuries or even claiming lives. Understanding the common causes of these accidents is a critical step toward safer roadways. As an experienced law firm, The Horwitz Law Group has seen first-hand the devastation caused by these accidents. We’re here to shed light on the most common causes of motorcycle accidents while advocating for the rights of victims. Contact our attorneys to receive legal advice that is specific to your case.

Speeding and Reckless Riding

Speeding and reckless riding are common culprits for all types of traffic collisions. Drivers moving at speeds significantly higher than posted limits create a dangerous scenario for riders. The inability to slow down in time to avoid a collision can result in catastrophic injuries, especially when other vehicles are involved. 

Distracted Driving and Inattention

The advent of smartphones has increased the instances of distracted driving, posing a significant threat to motorcyclists. Given their smaller and narrower frames, motorcycles are less visible, making them vulnerable to inattentive drivers who don’t check their mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes or merging.

Lane Splitting and Unsafe Lane Changes

Lane splitting, the act of a motorcyclist riding between two lanes of slowed or stopped traffic, is prohibited in Illinois due to its inherent risk. An unsignaled lane change by a car or truck could lead to a disastrous collision with a motorcycle rider.

Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence remains a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. Alcohol impairs reaction time and vision, increasing the likelihood of drivers overlooking the smaller profile of a motorcycle.

Road Conditions and Hazards

Uneven pavement, potholes, loose gravel, slippery roadways, or other highway debris pose a greater danger to motorcyclists than to drivers of larger vehicles. Poor maintenance by the responsible agency or a defective road design can lead to crashes, causing the motorcycle rider to lose control.

Mechanical Problems

Faulty parts or systems due to improper maintenance can be the catalyst for a catastrophic motorcycle accident. If poor repairs or a defective component lead to a collision, liability could potentially fall on a maintenance company or a parts manufacturer.

Inadequate Visibility

The smaller size and slim profile of motorcycles make them harder to spot in traffic. Glare, obstructed vision, or an insufficiently bright headlamp can result in visibility issues, increasing the risk of accidents.

Failure to Yield Right of Way

Disregarding right-of-way laws endangers motorcyclists. A vehicle failing to yield to a motorcycle driver can lead to a collision, often leaving the rider with little time to react.

Contact an Injury Lawyer for Assistance

The causes of motorcycle accidents are diverse, ranging from reckless driving and distracted driving to poor road conditions and visibility issues. However, every accident has one common thread – the potential for devastation. At The Horwitz Law Group, we understand the challenges faced by victims of motorcycle accidents. We fight relentlessly for your rights, ensuring you receive the financial compensation you deserve for your pain, suffering, and other losses. Call us today for a consultation, and trust us to stand up for you when you need it most.

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