Motorcycle accidents are often debilitating, or even fatal, to those involved. Additionally, the devastation is often preventable, which perhaps makes the emotional impact harder to swallow. Although victims and families may be left in the figurative paralysis of what to do, a quick legal reaction time boosts the chances of a successful outcome.

A successful claim enables victims to gain compensation for much of their loss. No two cases are identical. However, there are behaviors frequently identified as the causes of a motorcycle accident.

Top Causes of Motorcycle Crashes

Studies show that the inability of finding a trustworthy mechanic is the number one reason why many Americans do not ensure they perform proper maintenance on their investment. One study went so far as to say 86 percent of the population believes they pay outrageous costs for unnecessary repair work. Regardless of whether this belief is justifiable leads thousands to put off repair work beyond minor upkeep, often compounding any underlying issues.

Regular maintenance repair is imperative to the safety and functionality of all vehicles. While maintenance procrastination is a dangerous practice for drivers with traditional four-wheeled vehicles, motorcyclists should be even more cautious because a seemingly small issue, if left unresolved, can lead to motorcycle injuries or even death.

Mechanic’s Liability

California is well known for extended seasons of tropical weather—an ideal location for year-round motorcycling. There are several reasons why to choose a motorcycle as the primary means of transportation. Along with the thrill of the ride comes the added financial benefit and increased mobility through traffic jams. However, one disadvantage is apparent when it comes to their physical size in comparison to other vehicles in a collision. Precautions must be taken at all times for motorcycle safety. Moreover, there are additional precautions that should be considered during winter months to prevent motorcycle accidents. 

Safety Tips for All Driving Conditions

Motorcyclists must follow the same laws of the road as any other vehicle. Additionally, the state has mandated requirements and suggestions that are in place to protect these riders. These safety measures for riders include the following:

When we hear about motorcycle accidents on the roadways, the news often revolves around other drivers and how they are at fault for collisions with motorcyclists. While it is true that drivers must exercise special caution when operating vehicles around motorcyclists, those riding motorcycles can have just as much of an impact on highway safety. We all share the roadways, and we all have a part to play.

What You Can Do as a Motorcyclist

The California Highway Patrol reports that Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System data has shown a continual increase in motorcycle fatalities since 2011. The CHP’s motorcycle safety program exists to help equip riders with the education, skills, and tools they need to take responsibility for their part on the roads as they operate and interact with other drivers. 

Buses, cars, bikes, and our own two feet: on a daily basis, we are on the move. Luckily, we get to decide what moves us in most occasions. For many, their chosen mode of transportation is by motorcycle. There is just something about the breeze in your hair and against your face and the rumble of a motorcycle rolling on the pavement that gets pulses racing for millions of riders every day. For some, it is a pastime, something that can be enjoyed for long cruises on the weekend. For many others, it is their daily transportation. Who can blame them with the gas mileage? One thing is for sure; motorcycles are everywhere, and it is everyone’s responsibility to prevent motorcycle accidents.

When You Are the Motorcyclist

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), among the many contributing factors for motorcycle accidents are breaking speed limits and not knowing how to appropriately operate a motorcycle. This is not to say that these are the only factors that lead to accidents; the list is extensive. However, a few tips that you can use to potentially prevent a fatal accident are:

A California motorcyclist recently lost his life in a motor vehicle accident in a Livermore neighborhood. Speed appears to be a factor but there is speculation that he may have been simply avoiding a small animal. Friends and family are grieving the loss of a good man, a victim of an unfortunate accident.

Studies have shown that there are plenty of reasons for motorcycle accidents. Often, someone else is at fault (such as another driver) and the injured motorcyclist (or that person's family in the case of a fatality) seeks compensation from the other party involved in the accident.

Three-fourths of the accidents that occur where a motorcycle is involved also include another vehicle, most often a passenger car. Two-thirds of those accidents are the fault of the driver of the car, not the motorcycle.

The mild winters that many parts of the U.S. experienced this past winter may have already allowed motorcyclists to get in a few good rides. With springtime occurring in full force and summer just on the horizon, however, the roads will soon be full of all types of mopeds, scooters and motorcycles.

Now is a good time for all riders to review and practice safe operation of their two-wheeled motor vehicles.

More than 60 percent of accidents with motorcycles, mopeds and scooters also involve another type of motor vehicle. This is a scary prospect considering there are so few physical protections when riding. Wearing appropriate clothing and gear, however, can lessen the chances for severe injuries during minor accidents. Motorcycle helmets, protective or reflective jackets and pants, leather gloves and goggles or masks are all a must when riding.