Many people enjoy going for a ride on a motorcycle, but these vehicles come with certain risks that are avoided in cars and other vehicles. However, knowing how to be safe when riding a motorcycle can reduce these risks. Here are four of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents.
1. Driving Under the Influence
As with most motor vehicle accidents, driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. Adults can generally stay below the legal blood alcohol limit for operating a vehicle if they stick to one or fewer drinks per hour. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution. If you are going someplace where you know you will be partaking in alcoholic beverages, leave the bike at home and get a designated driver, taxi, or rideshare instead. The same goes if you are under the influence of drugs or are very tired.
2. Not Paying Attention
Looking at a smartphone rather than paying attention to the road is a huge contributor to getting into a motorcycle crash and sustaining an injury. If you are new to operating this type of vehicle, consider not even having music playing while you are riding, in order to ensure that you are fully focused on your surroundings.
3. Going Too Fast
Because of the thrill involved, the temptation to speed on a motorcycle is even higher than it is in a car. However, going too fast can cause accidents and can even increase the chance that you will be severely injured or injure someone else, at which point a motorcycle injury attorney may get involved. In addition to the posted speed limit, pay close attention to weather and road conditions when determining how fast you should go.
4. Being Inexperienced
Unlike with a car or truck, many motorcyclists learn how to ride later in life, or at least a few years past the age where people typically get a driver’s license. In addition, in the majority of regions in the United States, riding can only be done at certain times of the year due to weather conditions. Therefore, people who operate motorcycles are often inexperienced. To gain experience, practice operating the bike in parking lots or on roadways with little traffic and few corners.
Keep these four common causes of motorcycle accidents in mind the next time you go for a ride.