Identifying the common causes of motorcycle accidents is not an academic task. It isn’t just so that statistics can be compiled and reports can be made. Instead, understanding the common causes allows us, as riders, to identify potential risks and to identify possible reasons why a crash occurred.
Causes to Watch For
Whether you have already been hurt in a motorcycle crash, or not, it is important to be aware of the following factors that could result in a driver causing a motorcycle accident:
- Drunk driving. In Illinois, drivers under the age of 21 may not drive with any alcohol in their system, commercial drivers over the age of 21 may not drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or higher, and other drivers may not drive with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. However, a driver under the influence of any alcohol or drugs could cause a crash.
- Distracted driving. Common distractions include texting and driving or using a cellphone while driving, and Illinois has specific laws about such actions. That said, anything that takes a driver’s attention away from driving safely, his hands off of the wheel, or his eyes away from the road could result in a distracting driving wreck.
- Drowsy driving. Tired drivers may be just as dangerous as drunk drivers and distracted drivers. Fatigue can interfere with a driver’s reflexes and cause a serious crash.
- Speeding. A driver who is exceeding the speed limit or traveling too fast for road conditions may be unable to avoid a catastrophic collision with a rider.
- Aggressive driving. Drivers who weave in and out of traffic or follow other vehicles too closely may be unable to avoid colliding with a motorcycle.
- Mistakes made by car drivers. Car drivers often fail to watch for motorcycles the same way they watch for other cars and trucks. If a driver underestimates the distance of a motorcycle or fails to see a motorcycle at all, then that driver may cause a serious wreck.
- Poor road design or road conditions. Potholes, uneven roads, and poor visibility may create serious dangers for riders and result in significant accidents.
These things may commonly cause motorcycle accidents, but they do not excuse them.
You Have the Right to Pursue Damages If You’ve Been Hurt by Someone Else’s Negligence
Whether you are hurt by one of the common causes of motorcycle accidents, as described above, or another reason, you have the right to pursue damages for your accident injuries when those injuries were caused by the intentional or negligent actions of someone else.
Your damages may include compensation for past, current, and future:
- Medical expenses.
- Out-of-pocket costs.
- Lost income.
- Pain and suffering.
For more information on how to get the damages that you deserve, we encourage you to start an online chat with us now and to schedule your own free consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney.