The Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Arkansas & How to Avoid Them

Head-on Collision Motorcycle Accidents

Did you know that crashes involving other vehicles account for more than half of all motorcycle accident fatalities? Even worse, 78 percent of those accidents are caused by the car striking the motorcycle in a head-on collision. In these accidents, the motorcyclist is often crushed or thrown from their bike into traffic, resulting in serious injuries and often fatalities.

How Can You Avoid Head-on Collisions?

According to the National Safety Council, you can avoid these deadly motorcycle accidents by driving to the right, reducing your speed, and reading the road constantly. Scanning the road for potential hazards is a must for all motorcyclists. When you see a car coming head-on, run off the road or drive as far to the right as possible. This can reduce your chances of getting into a serious and deadly crash.

Cars Making Left-hand Turns

One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is the left-hand turn. When drivers make a left-hand turn at an intersection, they may fail to notice an oncoming motorcyclist. As such, they can turn directly into the motorcyclist’s path or crash into the bike itself. These types of accidents account for 42 percent of all motorcycle crashes.

How Can You Avoid Left Hand Turn Crashes?

Motorcyclists can reduce the likelihood of getting into a motorcycle crash at an intersection by surveying the intersection carefully when approaching. Look for any sign that the car may be moving or getting ready to pull out. Slow down when approaching intersections as a precaution. Also, be sure to wear bright and reflective clothing and gear at all times. This will increase your chances of being seen on the road.

Motorcycle Lane Changing Accidents

Other motorists have a responsibility to look for motorcyclists on the road. However, when changing lanes, many motorists fail to recognize a motorcyclist in their way. They may not see them in their rear-view mirror, or the motorcyclist could be riding in the blind spot. Either way, these accidents can be deadly because they can happen without warning and on busy, fast-moving freeways

How Can You Avoid Lane Changing Accidents?

• Lane changing accidents are best avoided in several ways:
• Never ride in a vehicle’s blind spot
• Wear bright and reflective clothing
• Watch for blinkers and other signs of movement
• Defensive driving

Motorcycle Collision with Parked Car Doors

Surprisingly, a vehicle doesn’t have to be moving to injure a motorcyclist. Parked cars pose a real threat. When a car driver parks, they may fail to check their side mirrors before exiting their vehicle. A suddenly open car door can throw a motorcyclist off their path and into oncoming traffic. Dooring accidents are tragic and can be deadly.

How Can You Avoid a Dooring Accident?

The best way to avoid a dooring accident is to ride far enough away from parked cars. As you pass parked cars, look for signs of activity, such as an occupant in the driver’s seat or taillights on. This can signal to you that they may be getting ready to exit their vehicle.

High Speed Motorcycle Accidents

Speed is a killer, especially if you are on a motorcycle. Without the added protection of seatbelts, airbags, and steel frames, motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to injury during a high speed accident. In one recent year, a third of all fatal motorcycle accidents are caused by excessive speed. Sport motorcycles, in particular, are high-speed and often purchased because of this ability.

How Can You Avoid a High Speed Accident?

Slowing down is the best way to avoid these types of accidents. Always obey the speed limit and be sure you are riding at a safe speed for the road conditions. When a road is filled with gravel or debris, motorcyclists may need to ride even slower to avoid injury. Likewise, when it is raining or when the wind is strong, motorcyclists may need to reduce their speed further to prevent serious and deadly accidents.

Drug & Alcohol Intoxication Motorcycle Accidents

Did you know that 30 percent of all fatal motorcycle accidents involve alcohol? That’s right. Alcohol intoxication is a big reason why serious and deadly motorcycle crashes occur. Both motorcyclists and other motorists share the blame for these deadly crashes.

How Can You Avoid Alcohol Intoxication Accidents?

The simplest way to avoid drunk driving motorcycle accidents is to avoid drinking and riding. Whenever you go out, make sure you have a designated driver or take an Uber home. If you are riding at night (and not under the influence of alcohol), be extra careful of other drunk drivers. Use extra caution at intersections and always look out for drivers swerving or weaving in and out of traffic.

Collisions Between Motorcycles and Fixed Objects

Fixed objects are generally not dangerous. However, when motorcyclists lose control of their bikes, these fixed objects can be deadly. Signs, street poles, trees, and even parked cars can suddenly become dangerous and result in catastrophic injuries.

How Can You Avoid Fixed Object Accidents?

You can best avoid fixed object accidents by maintaining control of your bike at all times. The best practices a motorcyclist can take to avoid fixed object accidents include:

• Avoid drinking and riding
• Drive within the speed limit
• Do not ride fatigued
• Reduce speed during inclement weather
• Have bike regularly tuned and maintained

Sudden Stop Rear-End Motorcycle Accidents

Rear-end accidents and motorcyclists are deadly. These accidents can occur in numerous ways, including:

• When a motorcyclist is stopped at a stop sign or stoplight, and another vehicle rear-ends them
• When another motorist is tailgating them or riding too closely
• When the motorcyclist is following another vehicle too closely

All these rear-end accidents result in a motorcyclist thrown from their bikes suddenly, resulting in life-threatening and fatal accidents.

How Can You Avoid Rear-end Motorcycle Accidents?

The best way to avoid rear-end accidents is to avoid riding too closely to other vehicles. Keep your distance and allow motorists the space they need to stop. When you are at intersections, position your motorcycle on the right of the lane and plan an escape route. Make sure your tail lights are working properly, and be alert at all times.

Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Inexperienced Drivers

Inexperienced drivers do not always pay attention to the road in the same way. They may fail to recognize motorcyclists or cut them off in traffic because they failed to check their mirrors. They can also make unsafe moves that jeopardize motorcyclists and their safety.

How Can You Avoid Inexperienced Driving Accidents?

Be sure you are not an inexperienced rider by taking a motorcycle safety course. Also, practice defensive driving and keep a lookout for motorists who may not be experienced on the road. Give inexperienced drivers plenty of space and avoid riding in their blind spots.

Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Dangerous Road Conditions

Road conditions can affect motorcycles more than other vehicles. Potholes, slick and slippery surfaces, and debris can all wreak havoc on riders and make it hard for riders to stay safe and out of harm’s way. Losing control of your bike can have devastating and serious consequences.

How Can You Avoid Dangerous Road Accidents?

When riding, be sure to consider the road surface. Use extra caution when riding on slippery or debris-filled highways or freeways. Slow down and make sure you are using an appropriate speed for the conditions.

Motorcycle Defect Accidents

Motorcycle manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure that their products are safe and free from defects. When they fail to do this, they can be held liable for the injuries their products cause. These products can cause horrific accidents and injuries from defective tires to defective brake components when they fail.

How Can You Avoid Motorcycle Defect Accidents?

The best way to avoid motorcycle defect accidents is to have your bike regularly tuned and maintained. Check for any recalled products, and be sure you have any recalled products changed immediately.