Motorcycles offer freedom and excitement on the open road, but they also come with increased risk. Understanding the leading causes of motorcycle crashes can help you stay safe while riding. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the leading cause of motorcycle crashes is other drivers failing to see motorcycles in traffic, particularly when they are turning or changing lanes. Visibility issues—often due to blind spots—put motorcycle riders in danger and what might be just a fender bender for a car can be catastrophic on a motorcycle.
In Maine, motorcycle accidents are a growing concern. The state’s scenic beauty draws riders and drivers alike, but it can also be a distraction and put those same riders at risk. If you’ve been involved in an accident, contact a skilled Maine motorcycle accident attorney.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents in Maine
While no single factor explains every crash, several common causes of motorcycle accidents stand out.
1. Driver inattention and blind spots
Many collisions occur when car or truck drivers fail to see motorcycles. Because motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, they’re harder to see and are more easily obscured by blind spots. This often leads to dangerous collisions between cars and motorcycles. Motorists also often overlook motorcycles when turning left across traffic, entering a main road from a side street or merging lanes and onto highways.
2. Influence of alcohol or drugs
The influence of alcohol or alcohol or drugs significantly raises the risk of motorcycle crashes. Impaired drivers and riders suffer from delayed reaction time, poor judgment, and reduced control. Data consistently shows that motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes have a higher rate of alcohol impairment compared to drivers of other motor vehicles.
3. Sudden stops and car doors
If another vehicle stops suddenly in front of a motorcycle it poses a significantly higher risk to the safety of the rider than the driver of a car. When a motorcyclist has to slam on their brakes they can easily lose control and be thrown from their bike. Additionally, the risk posed to a motorcyclist from a relatively low speed rear end collision far exceeds that of a passenger in a car. Similarly, when someone opens a car door from a car parked on the side of a road it creates an unexpected and dangerous hazard for a motorcyclist. It is so common that it has its own name — “dooring.” When a door is opened into the travel lane of a motorcycle rider, the consequences can be severe. It’s crucial for both drivers and riders to always maintain awareness of their surroundings.
4. Operating a motorcycle improperly
Inexperienced riders who are not fully comfortable operating a motorcycle are more likely to misjudge turns, speed, and braking distance. Losing control in curves or on slick roads can lead to accidents, especially if not wearing a helmet for protection.
5. Road hazards and weather
Potholes, gravel, wet leaves, and unpredictable Maine weather create dangers specific to motorcycles. Motorcycles are highly sensitive to changes in the road surface and weather that would have no effect on a car. Small changes in the road conditions can cause skids, crashes, falls, and injuries.
How riders can reduce the risk of crashes
Motorcycle safety is a shared responsibility between riders and drivers of other motor vehicles. Here are some practical tips that will help you, and others, ride safely and lower the chances of a dangerous collision:
- Always wear appropriate protective gear, especially a helmet.
- Never ride under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Stay out of other vehicles’ blind spots and make yourself as visible as possible.
- Take extra care when approaching intersections.
- Ride in the left third of the travel lane where you are more visible and can better avoid hazards on your right.
- Participate in motorcycle safety courses to improve handling and defensive riding skills.
Public awareness campaigns led by organizations and law enforcement across Maine aim to educate both riders and drivers about the risks associated with motorcycles. Nonetheless, staying informed and alert remains the most effective defense.
What to do after a motorcycle accident in Maine
If you or a loved one is injured in a motorcycle crash, you should consult with a lawyer to determine whether to pursue a legal claim. A motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages. Whether the crash involved a negligent driver, poor road conditions, or mechanical failure, consulting with an experienced legal professional is always a good idea.
Contact Shaheen & Gordon for help
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident anywhere in Maine, you probably have questions about what to do. Don’t spend time wondering. Instead, call the attorneys at Shaheen & Gordon right away. The experienced team at Shaheen & Gordon is here to help you navigate your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact us online or call (800) 451-1002 today for a free consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney.
