Common Road Hazards Leading to Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are more susceptible to experiencing catastrophic injuries as compared to car drivers because there is nothing solid and sturdy around them to stop them from impact against the rough pavement. This can lead to grave consequences, such as broken bones, road rash, traumatic brain injuries, and even death. According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 5,000 people died in the United States in motorcycle crashes in 2015.

Aside from errors made by motorcyclists or vehicle drivers, road hazards are a major cause of these accidents. To avoid them, you need to be vigilant of your surroundings and carefully assess the road and weather conditions. Here are the most common road hazards you should know about that result in motorcycle crashes:

Rough Roadways

Construction projects, poor maintenance, and roadway resurfacing can leave bumpy, rough patches on the road. Irregularities on the roads can cause the motorcyclist to lose balance, especially at high speed, dramatically increasing the risk of a motorcycle crash.

Loose Gravel, Sand, and Other Debris

Road disrepairs can be especially hazardous to motorcyclists, as they lead to loose gravel and massive potholes. It can be tricky for a bike rider to maneuver through a road with gravel, particularly when cornering.  They are bound to slip and fall. Unfortunately, loose gravel is a common problem on winding roads where motorcyclists are required to corner rather frequently. Moreover, sand, broken branches from trees, and other debris reduce traction and often lead to fatal accidents, especially in situations where the bike rider is going too fast and is not skilled or experienced enough to navigate through such road conditions.

Animals

Hitting a small animal or maneuvering to avoid the collision can throw a motorcycle off balance or off path. It is difficult to anticipate when an animal might start running across the road, and swerving to avoid hitting it can cause an accident. In addition, large animals, such as deer, also pose a major hazard and the impact can be fatal for a motorcyclist.

Edge Breaks

Edge breaks refer to a road condition where two traffic lanes have a difference in height. Edge breaks are particularly problematic for bikers who frequently change lanes to maneuver through the traffic, as they may reduce traction and cause them to lose control. Whenever you notice an edge break, it is important to slow down or avoid changing lanes altogether.

You should mindful about your surroundings and keep your eyes on the road at all times to react immediately to whatever the road may present. If you have been in an accident due to another driver’s negligent actions or poor road conditions, you may be eligible to make a claim against the responsible party. To have your case evaluated by an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, you should contact the Law Offices of Robert T. Edens, P.C. at (847) 395-2200 or online today to schedule your initial consultation.