Although there is nothing quite like the feeling of driving a motorcycle on the open road, using it as a primary mode of transport in your routine life carries a significant risk of physical harm. These vehicles are more dangerous compared to others like cars and trucks, particularly due to their lack of protection for the rider. Since most people have a lax attitude towards safety measures like wearing helmets and protection for knees and elbows, even a small accident can result in significant physical injury. These injuries can have lasting monetary consequences for yourself and your family. It’s important to understand the common causes of these accidents to avoid causing yourself bodily harm.
Speeding
Driving over the allowed speed limit is one of the leading causes of traffic incidents involving motorcycles. Due to their petite frame, they can reach top speeds faster than heavier vehicles like cars and trucks, and they can easily get out of a driver’s control once the speed crosses a certain threshold. Losing control can prove deadly for drivers as they are not as protected as they would be in a car. Speeding can also damage other vehicles that may be involved in a crash, possibly even destroying their car. Pedestrians are also in danger of someone speeding on their motorcycle if they aren’t paying attention. It’s best to know what the speed limit is and stay within that range on your motorcycle.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a broad term that encompasses various behaviors or activities that take a driver’s attention from the road. Some of these activities include calling or texting using a smartphone. Eating or drinking is another typical distraction that has dire consequences. If you’re listening to your music too loud or through headphones, it can be dangerous because you might not be able to hear other cars or emergency vehicles around you. Engaging in these activities while driving takes your mind off the road and decreases your reaction time. Which makes it extraordinarily difficult to avoid any vehicle, pedestrian, or road hazard in your way. It is important to put your safety first and stop at the side of the road, away from oncoming traffic, to return a call or message or delay it till you reach your destination safely.
Impaired Driving
Impaired or intoxicated driving involved driving under the influence of intoxicating substances like alcohol or drugs. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that reduces brain activity and wakefulness and impairs your reflexes. When a driver is drunk or high, they are highly likely to fail to react promptly to any unexpected traffic developments. These substances also impact your balance and vision and take away these two crucial faculties required for safe driving in heavy traffic. Driving under the influence of alcohol is a criminal offense and carries a fine of up to $2,000 and a jail time of up to six months, with three mandatory days in prison.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting refers to the dangerous practice of driving in between two adjacent lanes of traffic instead of staying in one lane. Traffic lanes are meant to prevent sudden movements, and lane splitting creates a high-risk situation where an unsuspecting driver can collide with a rider driving between lanes. If you change lanes suddenly, it might not give the driver behind you enough time to react. Which can lead to an accident that results in you receiving severe injuries or possibly with you ending up dead. This practice is illegal and carries a $175 fine for offending drivers.
Conclusion
Over speeding, drunk or distracted driving, lane splitting, and road hazards are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. If you or your loved one got injured in such an incident, you can consult a competent motorcycle accident lawyer at Patterson Law Group in Fort Worth to explore your legal options and act against the negligent driver. They will make sure that you are taken care of during your case. It’s best to reach out to a trusted legal that will fight for you. Research ones that specialize in your specific accident to get the best results.
