Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents in Colorado, Idaho, and Montana caused by the negligence of other vehicle drivers on the road are unfortunately common. The consequences of motorcycle accidents can be devastating, with riders facing a higher risk of sustaining catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protection on motorcycles. That’s why motorcycles and cars are different when it comes to risk exposure on the road.

Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Mountain States Injury Law understand the life-altering impact of these accidents and are dedicated to providing strong legal representation to injured motorcyclists and their families. We will leave no stone unturned to prove the liability of the negligent motorist and recover maximum financial compensation for your injuries and losses.

Key Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a significant contributor to motorcycle accidents, with car or truck drivers often multitasking behind the wheel by engaging in activities such as texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio. When motorists divert their attention from the road, they may fail to notice motorcycles in their vicinity, leading to collisions.

Texting, in particular, requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention, making it especially dangerous as it takes the driver’s eyes off the road, hands off the wheel, and mind off driving. The split-second distraction caused by these activities can result in catastrophic consequences for motorcyclists who may be unseen and vulnerable to a car accident.

Failure to Yield Right of Way

Failure to yield the right of way is a common cause of motorcycle accidents, especially at intersections, merging traffic, or when making turns. Motorcyclists have the same rights as other vehicles on the road, yet they are often overlooked by drivers who fail to yield when required by traffic laws.

In situations where drivers disregard the right of way of motorcyclists, motorcycle accidents happen more frequently, resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Whether due to inattention, impatience, or ignorance of traffic rules, failure to yield poses a significant risk to motorcyclists and underscores the importance of defensive riding and heightened awareness on the road.

Speeding

Speeding by other vehicle drivers is a leading factor in motorcycle crashes, as excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to changing road conditions or unexpected hazards. When drivers exceed the posted speed limits or travel at unsafe speeds for the prevailing conditions, they have less time to identify and respond to motorcyclists sharing the road.

The higher the speed, the greater the force of impact in the event of head-on collisions or side impact accidents, increasing the likelihood of severe injuries or fatalities for motorcycle riders. Speeding not only compromises the safety of motorcyclists but also undermines the shared responsibility of all road users to adhere to speed limits and exercise caution while driving.

Unsafe Lane Changes

Unsafe lane changes occur when car or truck drivers make sudden or improper maneuvers without signaling or checking blind spots, increasing the risk of colliding with motorcycles traveling in adjacent lanes (even when the motorcycle is not lane splitting). Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in these situations as they may be less visible to drivers due to their smaller size and narrower profile.

When motorists fail to properly assess their surroundings before changing lanes, they may merge into the path of a motorcycle, leading to side-swipe collisions or forcing the motorcyclist off the road. These accidents often result from driver negligence, such as distraction, impatience, or a lack of awareness of the presence of motorcycles, highlighting the importance of vigilance and adherence to proper lane-changing procedures to prevent collisions and promote road safety.

Following Too Closely

Following motorcycles too closely, also known as tailgating, poses a significant hazard to motorcyclists and increases the risk of rear-end collisions. When drivers tailgate motorcycles, they reduce their reaction time and limit their ability to stop or maneuver effectively in the event of sudden changes in traffic flow.

Rear-end collisions involving motorcycles can have devastating consequences, as motorcyclists may be thrown from their bikes or crushed between vehicles due to the force of impact. Tailgating is often indicative of aggressive or reckless driving behavior, and drivers who engage in this practice endanger not only themselves but also motorcyclists sharing the road. Maintaining a safe following distance is essential for preventing rear-end collisions and protecting the safety of motorcyclists and other road users.

Driving Under the Influence

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction times, posing a grave danger to motorcyclists and other road users. Impaired drivers may exhibit erratic or unpredictable behavior on the road, making it difficult for motorcyclists to anticipate their actions and respond accordingly.

Alcohol and drugs impair cognitive functions such as attention, perception, and decision-making, increasing the likelihood of collisions with motorcyclists due to impaired situational awareness and delayed reactions. Motorcycle accidents involving impaired drivers often result in severe injuries or fatalities, underscoring the need for strict enforcement of DUI laws and public awareness campaigns to deter impaired driving behaviors and protect vulnerable road users.

Failure to Obey Traffic Laws

When motorists fail to obey traffic laws, they put themselves and others at risk, including motorcyclists who are particularly vulnerable on the road. Violations such as running red lights, disregarding stop signs, or making illegal turns can lead to collisions with motorcyclists who have the right of way. A motorcycle accident claim must be filed against the negligent driver to recover damages.

For example, if a driver runs a red light at an intersection where a motorcyclist has a green light, a collision can occur, resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Similarly, disregarding stop signs or making illegal turns without yielding to motorcyclists can cause accidents, especially in areas where visibility is limited or traffic is congested. It is essential for all drivers to adhere to traffic laws to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.

Aggressive Driving

Aggressive driving poses a significant risk to motorcyclists as it involves behaviors that increase the likelihood of accidents and collisions. Aggressive drivers may exhibit behaviors such as weaving in and out of traffic, cutting off other vehicles, or engaging in road rage, all of which can escalate into accidents involving motorcyclists.

For example, if an aggressive driver attempts to pass a motorcyclist without providing sufficient space or cuts off a motorcyclist while changing lanes, a collision can occur, causing injuries or fatal crashes. Road rage incidents involving aggressive drivers can also endanger motorcyclists, as aggressive behaviors such as tailgating or sudden braking can catch motorcyclists off guard, leading to accidents.

Unsafe Passing

Unsafe passing maneuvers by other drivers pose a significant risk to motorcyclists and can lead to dangerous situations on the road. When drivers attempt to pass motorcycles without providing adequate space or visibility, they risk causing a collision with oncoming traffic or forcing the motorcyclist off the road. Injured victims should pursue motorcycle accident claims to recover compensation for their injuries and losses.

For example, if a driver attempts to pass a motorcyclist on a narrow road or in heavy traffic without ensuring clear visibility and sufficient passing space, a collision can occur, endangering the safety of the motorcyclist and other road users. Unsafe passing maneuvers can also startle motorcyclists, leading to loss of control or evasive maneuvers that increase the risk of accidents.

Opening Car Doors

Opening car doors without checking for an approaching motorcycle rider is a common cause of accidents and injuries for motorcyclists. When a car driver or passengers fail to check for oncoming traffic, including motorcycles, before opening their doors, they may inadvertently cause a collision with a passing motorcyclist.

The sudden appearance of a car door in the path of a motorcycle gives the motorcyclist little time to react, often resulting in a motorcycle crash with the door or forcing the motorcyclist to swerve dangerously to avoid it. These accidents can lead to serious injuries for motorcyclists, including broken bones, head injuries, and even fatalities. To prevent such accidents, drivers and passengers must always check their mirrors and blind spots before opening car doors, especially when parked on busy streets or in areas with heavy motorcycle traffic.

Failure to Check Blind Spots

Neglecting to check blind spots before changing lanes or making other maneuvers is another common cause of accidents involving motorcyclists. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles on the road, making them particularly vulnerable to collisions when drivers fail to properly assess their surroundings. When a driver fails to check their blind spots before changing lanes, they may collide with a motorcyclist traveling in an adjacent lane, leading to serious injuries or fatal accidents.

Serious motorcycle collisions often occur due to driver negligence, distraction, or a lack of awareness of the presence of motorcycles. To prevent such accidents, drivers must develop the habit of checking their blind spots before changing lanes or making any maneuvers on the road, especially in areas where motorcycles are likely to be present.

Failure to Signal Turns

When drivers fail to use turn signals, motorcyclists may be left unaware of upcoming maneuvers, increasing the risk of left turn accidents. Without clear signaling, the motorcycle-riding individual may misinterpret the driver’s actions or attempt to pass or maneuver around the vehicle, resulting in accidents.

For instance, if a driver suddenly turns without signaling, a motorcyclist traveling behind or alongside the vehicle may not have sufficient time to react, leading to a collision. Failure to signal lane changes can also result in motorcyclists being caught off guard, especially in heavy traffic or congested road conditions.

Vehicle Defects or Malfunctions

Accidents caused by vehicle defects or malfunctions pose a significant risk to motorcyclists on the road. Defects such as brake failures, tire blowouts, steering system malfunctions, or engine problems can impair a driver’s ability to control their vehicle, leading to collisions with motorcyclists.

In such cases, the driver may lose control of their vehicle unexpectedly, veering into the path of a motorcyclist or causing a rear-end collision. Vehicle defects or malfunctions can occur due to manufacturing errors, design flaws, or inadequate maintenance and inspection practices.

Why You Should Choose Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Dale Casares for Your Claim

Dedicated Focus on Motorcycle Accident Claims

Hiring a lawyer specialized in motorcycle crashes can make all the difference to your case. Dale Casares’ firm, Mountain States Injury Law, specializes exclusively in personal injury cases related to car crashes and motorcycle accidents. This specialization ensures a deep focus and expertise in addressing the unique needs and concerns of clients in these types of cases. Unlike many other firms, Mountain States Injury Law does not handle cases outside of its specialization, such as slip and fall, medical malpractice, or dog bite cases.

Insider’s Perspective and Insight

Dale’s primary value proposition lies in her ability to offer an insider’s perspective gleaned from her time working at an insurance company, coupled with her firsthand experience collaborating with insurance defense attorneys. This deep understanding of the insurance industry equips her with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively counter insurance company tactics and secure maximum compensation for her clients.

Open and Transparent Approach

Attorney Dale Casares distinguishes herself from her competitors by prioritizing open communication, clear explanations, and providing direct answers to her clients. This commitment to transparent communication ensures that clients are kept informed at every stage of the legal process, allowing them to understand the complexities of their case and make informed decisions. Her direct approach fosters trust and confidence, as clients feel reassured knowing they are receiving honest and straightforward guidance.

Personalized Attention to Every Case

Ultimately, clients benefit from Dale’s personalized attention and strategies designed to achieve the best possible outcomes for their cases. Her track record of recognition, including being named one of The Best Lawyers in America® and receiving accolades as one of the Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Colorado Springs, underscores her exceptional legal expertise and dedication to client success. With a remarkable Avvo rating of 9.9 (Superb), Dale Casares is widely respected for her commitment to securing justice and compensation for those injured in motorcycle accidents.

To schedule your free consultation, call us at 888-617-6084 or contact us online.