The most common types of motorcycle accidents are diverse and often result from a mix of environmental conditions and the actions of other drivers. Because motorcycles are smaller and offer less protection than cars, riders are more at risk of getting hurt in an accident.
Knowing about these common types of crashes can help riders stay safer on the road. If you or someone you know has been in a motorcycle accident, our motorcycle accident lawyers in Charlotte are here to help.
We can handle the legal process for you and work to get you the compensation you need so you can focus on getting better.
The Most Common Types of Motorcycle Crashes and Why They Happen
Below are some of the most common types of motorcycle accidents, along with insights into how and why they happen and what riders can do to reduce their risks.
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Left-Turning Vehicles
Accidents involving left-turning vehicles are one of the most common dangers for motorcyclists. These crashes happen when a car turns left at an intersection and crosses in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
In many cases, the driver misjudges the motorcycle’s speed or doesn’t see it at all. Riders can reduce their risk by staying alert at intersections and being prepared to brake or swerve if needed.
Lane-Switching Collisions
Lane-switching accidents occur when a car changes lanes without noticing a motorcycle in its blind spot. Because motorcycles are smaller, they are easier to miss.
Riders can avoid these crashes by staying out of vehicle drivers’ blind spots. They should also use their headlights and watch for signs that a car might change lanes suddenly.
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Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are some of the most serious motorcycle accidents, commonly happening at higher speeds. These occur when a car crosses into a motorcycle’s lane, leading to a direct impact.
These crashes are often deadly for motorcyclists. Staying alert and avoiding riding near the centerline of the road can help reduce the risk.
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Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions happen when a car hits a motorcycle from behind. This is especially dangerous at stoplights or intersections, where cars may not stop in time. Distracted driving is a common cause.
Motorcycle riders can stay safer by using their brake lights early and keeping an escape route in mind in case a car doesn’t slow down.
Dooring Accidents
Dooring accidents happen when someone in a parked car opens their door into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. These accidents are especially common in busy city streets.
Riders can avoid them by staying alert near parked cars and riding a safe distance away from them whenever possible.
Cornering Accidents
Cornering accidents occur when a motorcycle loses control while navigating a curve. This can happen if the rider goes too fast, leans too far, or hits gravel, wet spots, or uneven pavement.
Riders should slow down before curves and stay aware of road conditions to avoid sliding out of control.
Traction-Related Accidents
Traction-related accidents happen when a motorcycle loses its grip on the road. This can occur during sharp turns or sudden maneuvers. These accidents can result in two primary types of crashes: highsides and lowsides.
Highside Crashes
A highside crash happens when the rear wheel loses traction—often from sudden braking or too much acceleration—and then abruptly regains grip. This sudden change can cause the motorcycle to flip violently, throwing the rider off.
Highside crashes are typically more dangerous than lowsides due to the force of the rider’s ejection and the height of the fall.
Common causes of these crashes include:
- Excessive braking or acceleration mid-turn.
- Slippery surfaces like gravel or wet pavement.
- Poor throttle control.
Lowside Crashes
A lowside occurs when the motorcycle loses traction and slides out from underneath the rider. This usually happens during a turn, and both the rider and bike often skid along the ground.
While lowside accidents tend to be less severe than highside crashes, they can still cause injuries from sliding and contact with the road.
Common causes of these accidents include:
- Overbraking, especially with the front brake.
- Leaning too far into a corner.
- Reduced traction from hazards like oil, water, or loose gravel.
Drunk or Impaired Driving Accidents
Crashes involving drunk or impaired drivers are especially dangerous for motorcyclists. Whether it’s the rider or another driver, impaired judgment and slower reaction times can easily lead to an accident. Staying sober and staying clear of erratic drivers can help prevent these crashes.
Road Hazards and Obstructions
Motorcycles are more affected by road hazards than cars. Potholes, loose gravel, debris, and wet roads can all cause a rider to lose control. Riders should scan the road ahead, avoid sudden movements, and use caution when conditions are less than ideal.
High-Speed Collisions
High-speed collisions are among the most severe motorcycle accidents. They can happen on highways, where vehicles are moving faster and have less time to react.
Riders should maintain a safe speed, leave plenty of space, and avoid weaving through traffic to stay safe.
Group Riding Collisions
Group riding accidents occur when multiple motorcyclists ride together but fail to communicate properly. Riders might follow too closely, make sudden moves, or lose focus, leading to crashes.
To avoid these accidents, riders should maintain safe distances, use hand signals, and ride in a staggered formation.
We Can Help You Take Legal Action After a Motorcycle Accident
By understanding the most common types of motorcycle accidents and taking steps to prevent them, riders can greatly reduce their risks. However, even the safest riders can get into an accident because of another driver’s mistake.
If you have been in a crash, you can call the Charlotte personal injury lawyers at DeMayo Law Offices. Since 1992, we have recovered over $1 billion for our clients in verdicts and settlements. We will handle your entire case, from filing your claim to negotiating, while you focus on healing.
We will also advise you on the next steps and answer other questions and concerns during a free consultation. We urge you to act soon. Per G.S. § 1-52, you have three years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. Call us today to get started.
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