Motorcycle accidents are frequent on the streets of New York, even if riders take all safety measures and follow all traffic rules.
Over the years, national traffic authorities have campaigned to encourage people to be more careful and wear the proper safety equipment while driving.
While this does not completely prevent a motorcycle crash from happening, understanding the related risks and precautions can allow people to enjoy a safe ride.
Speeding is usually listed as a common cause of motorcycle accidents. Therefore, knowing such incidents' average speed is essential to reduce the chances of getting hurt when riding a two-wheeler.
At What Speed Do the Most Frequent Motorcycle Accidents Tend to Occur?
While motorcycle accidents can happen at any time, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says the median pre-accident speed is 29.8 mph. Also, the average speed at the time of impact is below 22 mph.
Such a low average surprises many but indicates that motorcyclists usually have accidents at speeds below 30 mph. That's worrying.
In addition, although speeding can cause several motorcycle crashes, it is not common for riders to surpass dangerous limits while driving.
Is Speeding the Common Cause of Motorcycle Accidents?
Many people believe that speeding is the leading cause of motorcycle accidents, but that assumption is incorrect.
The NHTSA only considers speeding to contribute to traffic incidents in two scenarios: when the motorist has committed a similar offense in the past or when a police officer determines racing, driving too fast, or exceeding the legal speed limit contributed to the crash.
Common Causes Behind Motorcycle Accidents
While speeding can be linked to some accidents, other causes are associated with motorcycle casualties. The most common include:
Driving under the influence (DUI)
Driving while intoxicated or driving while impaired (DWI)
Sudden stops
Low visibility
Driver inexperience
Dangerous road conditions
Unsafe lane changes
Lane splitting
Can Motorcycle Accidents Happen for Other Reasons?
Since motorcycles are smaller cars and move quickly, it can be challenging for other motor vehicle drivers to see a motorcyclist coming or anticipate their movements.
It can also be difficult for a car driver to see an approaching motorcycle if it is in a blind spot, which highly increases accident risks, making it important to know what to do if you hit someone on a motorcycle.
Also, some people are negligent when operating large motor vehicles. Some of the reckless situations that commonly end in accidents are:
Failure to yield the right of way to motorcyclists properly
Failure to clear enough space before attempting to pass a motorcycle properly
Not checking or seeing if a motorcycle is changing lanes before making a maneuver
Improperly changing lanes to overtake another motorist on the road when a motorcycle is approaching
Not giving motorcycles the proper distance or not following them closely
Failure to brake in time to stop behind a motorcycle
Getting distracted while driving
Nodding off or falling asleep while driving
Operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or narcotic substances
In addition to other motorized vehicles' drivers, some motorcycle accidents are caused by poor road conditions or manufacturing defects. In these cases, the state or manufacturers may be at fault and face legal action for the incident, which makes it important how you respond to a motorcycle accident.
People Injured in Motorcycle Accidents Can Hire a Professional Lawyer
Anyone involved in a motorcycle accident has the right to seek legal assistance to fight for fair compensation, build a case, or take legal action against at-fault parties.
Often, car drivers argue that they are not responsible for the accident and blame the motorcyclist's speeding for the crash.
However, statistics say that speeding is not usually the main cause of motorcycle accidents, and there may be other related reasons.
The Law Office of Carl Maltese has experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Long Island who understand how complex these incidents can be. They are all willing to help victims fight for their rights and prevent a motorcycle accident's aftermath from affecting their lives forever.
Those who have suffered injury or property loss due to rider's negligence and motorcyclists affected by car drivers' actions can call us and schedule a free consultation today!
The Law Office of Carl Maltese's seasoned and skilled personal injury attorneys are ready to help those affected get the compensation they deserve!