ALT-3 Common causes of Motorcycle Accidents
There really is no possible way to compare a motorcycle to any other conventional vehicle on the road today. Motorcycles, although extremely thrilling to ride, lack the same sense of security found nestled within the safe confines of a steel shell. As riders we not only have to be wary of external elements, we also must be extremely vigilant of every turn, brake and movement just to avoid becoming another statistic.
So, what are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents? The answer is not as simple as you may think, especially since it is rarely the motorcycle operator who is directly responsible. Actually, the largest percentage of motorcycle accidents to date has been determined as either the direct or indirect fault of another driver.
Often though, in most of these cases there are mitigating circumstances involved, since the driver often claims that he or she did not see the said motorcycle in question. Unfortunately, as both a well-seasoned rider and a safety conscious motorist, I can attest that motorcycles tend to slip easily in an invisible region, known commonly as a blind spot. So, sometimes even the most diligent driver may miss a motorcycle that could be creeping up beside them. Keeping in mind that this is not always the case, since on many occasions I have clearly seen the face of the oblivious driver as he or she blatantly invaded my space.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2007, 40 percent of the two-vehicle accidents involved a vehicle turning left while the motorcycle was going straight, passing, or overtaking the vehicle. Although still costly, these accidents are also commonly less likely to be cause a fatality. Contrary to belief, nearly half of all fatal motorcycle accidents involve just the motorcycle operator or passengers and no other vehicle.
The second highest percentage of motorcycle crashes belongs to the vast category of reckless endangerment. Since motorcycles are agile, lightweight and extremely powerful, they are often abused and pushed beyond human limitations. Sure, it may look like one hell of a rush to go wailing down the highway at breakneck speeds, weaving in and out of traffic like nothing can stop you. However, when something finally does, there are no happy endings. Speed kills and no matter how good you think you might be, the faster you are travelling the less time you have to react to a problem. Growing up with many fellow motorcyclists I have seen way too many riders go from zero to dead, and for what-a simple thrill. A high price to pay for an adrenaline rush if you ask me!
Stepping away from normal causes we can now consider the unknown factor, otherwise known as the elements. Bikes unlike cars are small and quite unstable, often requiring both skill and coordination to operate. However, things like rain, wind, and other weather conditions can test even the most skilled rider. Motorcycles are equipped with thinner tires than other vehicles, adding to the likelihood that uneven roads, gravel, graded surfaces and even a pothole might upset a rider. During rain, slick surfaces and hydroplaning often result in losing control while operating a motorcycle.
Interestingly, the most dangerous time to travel for motorcycles is within the first few minutes of rainfall. Why? Oil leaks, and other mechanical fluids that seep into the pavement or collect on the roadway lift up during the first few minutes of rain, which makes surfaces nearly sixty times greasier than any other time. It is best to wait 10-15 minutes until most of the residual fluids are washed away, before riding in the rain.
At one time, as a young and very novice operator, I was caught between the crosswinds of two passing semi-trucks. My bike throttled me from left to right, wobbling nearly out of control. Luckily though, the rider's safety course I had participated that same year, taught me all about speed wobbles, and what to do in the event one should happen. Other road hazards that can be encountered include various flying debris like stones, broken mufflers and various other objects.
Lastly, although fairly uncommon these days, is the mechanical factor. Barely 1 percent of motorcycle accidents are determined to due to mechanical failure, metal fatigue and even blown tires. Regular maintenance is a must for any motorcycle owner, since there is little to stand between him or her and the hard cold, almost never forgiving surface of the road. Things like tire pressure, chain or belt inspections should become daily practice to ensure your cycle is safe for operation.
It only takes a few minutes to be a safe rider, but it only takes a second to lose control. Failing to wear a helmet or any other protective gear like a leather jacket and gloves, are all personal choices we must make, but is it really worth the pain and suffering afterwards? Hopefully this article helps motorists understand the perils motorcycle riders face, and for the riders I urge you to ride responsibly and to respect how fragile we really are.
