Motorcyclists face a significantly higher risk of a crash with a severe or fatal outcome compared to other motorists. That stems from a combination of bike design, human error, additional environmental challenges, and negligent drivers sharing the road.
If you suffered harm in a collision because of someone else’s carelessness, you can pursue a payout from the responsible party in civil court with help from a motorcycle collision attorney. Call Hull & Zimmerman today to schedule an appointment and learn more about the common causes of motorcycle accidents in Northglenn and what you can pursue for damages after a crash.
Why Motorcyclists Are at a Higher Risk of Crashes
Motorcycle operators and passengers are at higher risk of injury in a crash than those in other vehicles for various reasons, including the lack of physical protection. Unlike cars with metal frames, airbags, seatbelts, and other safety features, motorcycles provide virtually no protection. Bikes are also inherently less stable than four-wheeled cars.
Even a small defect in the road can cause a motorcycle rider to lose control of their vehicle. Additionally, motorcycles’ small size makes other drivers more likely to miss them. All of these factors commonly contribute to motorcycle crashes in Northglenn. This is why motorcyclists must follow traffic and safety laws and remain alert at all times.
What Are the Most Typical Crash Causes?
The most frequent causes of Northglenn motorcycle crashes include the following.
Left-Turns
Cars turning left across the path of oncoming bikes is a leading cause of severe collisions. According to studies and reports from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, unsafe left turns, passing, or overtaking account for nearly half of all motorcycle crashes caused by negligence. Motorists often report not seeing the approaching bike or misjudging their speed.
Distracted Driving
Distractions, such as phones, navigation, passengers, or other activities diverting attention from safely and lawfully operating a vehicle, are a major cause of all crashes. Distractions exacerbate perception failures, and despite substantial efforts to raise awareness of the hazard, the number of roadway incidents linked to distractions continues to increase each year.
Right-of-Way Violations
Traffic rule violations, such as failing to give motorcycles the right-of-way, are also a common cause of wrecks. These are often the result of distractions, speeding, or motorist recklessness.
Lane Change and Merge Errors
Changing lanes or merging without checking blind spots appropriately is another common cause of accidents. That includes failure to use signals and sideswiping or cutting off a motorcyclist traveling in the next lane. Motorcycles have smaller profiles, making it much easier to miss them in mirrors.
Operator Recklessness or Errors
Many crashes also involve factors under the rider’s control, including the following:
- Drug or alcohol impairment, which is a leading cause of fatal motorcycle crashes
- Speeding, which greatly increases the risk of collisions, as it reduces reaction times and control, particularly in curves or emergency situations
- Rider inexperience, which may lead to preventable errors, such as misjudging curves, improper turns, over-braking, following too closely, or a lack of judgment in dangerous situations
Rider errors or recklessness contribute to a substantial portion of roadway collisions. During your consultation, our knowledgeable lawyer can answer your questions about what factors may have contributed to your collision and how it affects your claim for damages.
Call a Northglenn Attorney About Common Motorcycle Wreck Causes
The common causes of motorcycle accidents in Northglenn range from human error to environmental conditions and often involve the negligence of another driver. You have the right to file a claim and pursue monetary damages from the at-fault party when their actions cause a preventable collision.
Our hard-working and skilled lawyers can answer all your questions and help you through the process while advocating for a favorable outcome. We prioritize one-on-one personalized attention from our attorneys, not case managers. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation and get started.
