Why Motorcycle Accidents Are More Dangerous Than Car Crashes

While motorcycles have proven to be a fuel-efficient, cost effective, and enjoyable way to get around, it’s important that all road users have a good understanding of the inherent risks that accompany using and driving near motorcycles. Read on to learn more about the dangers of motorcycle accidents.

Minimal Protection 

Vehicle occupants have a wide range of protections that help keep them safe in the event of an accident. Seat belts and airbags, for instance, prevent thousands of deadly injuries every year. Passenger vehicles also have enclosed cabins and a sturdy metal frame that helps protect occupants from direct impact with the road. Unfortunately, motorcyclists don’t have the benefit of these protections. They lack both airbags and seat belts, meaning that there is nothing to cushion the impact of a collision. The lack of an enclosed cabin also means that they can be thrown from their vehicle completely during a crash, resulting in potentially catastrophic or deadly injuries.

A Lack of Balance and Stability 

Unlike passenger vehicles with their four wheels, motorcycles are inherently a lot less stable. This lack of balance and stability means that it’s more difficult to control a motorcycle, so even a minor error, like a sudden stop or swerve, could prove extremely dangerous. This tends to be especially true in inclement weather or when the road conditions are poor.

Reduced Visibility 

Motorcycles are a lot smaller than most cars, which means that they are simply less visible to other road users. As a result, motorcycles often go unseen by other motorists, especially at intersections or when a vehicle is making a lane change, as a motorcycle can easily fit into a passenger vehicle’s blind spot. This lack of visibility makes a collision with the smaller motorcycle a lot more likely.

Exposure to Weather 

Motorcycle riders, due to their lack of an enclosed cabin, are exposed directly to the elements. This can be dangerous in inclement weather, where rain and wind can make it harder for a motorcyclist to see and control his or her vehicle. These risks are even more serious when the weather has also affected the road conditions.

Vulnerability to Road Conditions 

While potholes and crumbling asphalt are annoying to the occupants of passenger vehicles, they pose a very real risk to motorcycle riders, who could easily be thrown from their vehicle or skid out of control if the road is icy, gravelly, or pitted. Things that most motorists aren’t even aware of, like metal grates, railroad ties, and expansion joints are also dangerous for motorcyclists, as these surfaces can get very slippery when wet or icy.

Liability for Motorcycle Accidents 

While being aware of these factors can help drivers exercise the appropriate amount of caution when using or traveling near a motorcycle, there is no real way to guarantee a rider’s safety. In the event of an accident, it may be in the injured party’s best interests to seek compensation from the at-fault party.

Contact Our Experienced Tulsa Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today 

If you or a loved one were recently injured in a motorcycle crash through no fault of your own, you could be entitled to compensation for your losses. For an evaluation of your own legal options moving forward, please reach out to the Tulsa motorcycle accident attorneys at Levinson Law, P.C. today. Call us at 918-492-4433 to set up a free consultation.

Sources: 

ntsb.gov/Advocacy/safety-topics/Pages/Motorcyclist-Safety.aspx

one.nhtsa.gov/people/injury/pedbimot/motorcycle/00-nht-212-motorcycle/environmental53-54.html#:~:text