What Percentage Of Motorcycle Accidents Are The Rider’s Fault

Motorcyclists have certain risks on the road due to minimal physical protection against accidents. Because of this increased vulnerability, riders must be vigilant at all times by following traffic laws and practicing defensive driving. These responsibilities are even more important when considering what percentage of motorcycle accidents are the rider’s fault, as small mistakes can have serious consequences.

Even experienced riders can be victimized by unavoidable hazards such as distracted drivers, sudden obstacles in the road, or poor weather conditions. It generally takes several factors to determine what percentage of motorcycle accidents are actually the fault of the rider. The attorneys at The Cartwright Law Firm, Inc. understand these realities and are committed to the rights of motorcyclists after an accident.

Understanding the Role & Responsibilities of Motorcyclists in San Francisco

Besides the normal demands to follow the traffic rules, being a motorcyclist on the road includes lots of anticipation regarding others and self-safety management. Whereas other drivers enjoy more protection because of their larger sizes, a motorcyclist is at a far greater risk. A tiny mistake from either the rider or another driver may turn out to be tragic.

Being a responsible motorcyclist involves routine motorcycle maintenance, proper protective gear, and caution in case of uncontrollable traffic situations. Without a doubt, there is no way other than driving defensively. Riders have to be aware of blind spots, careless drivers, road hazards, and unexpected weather changes that could put them out of control of the vehicle.

Common Rider-Related Factors Contributing to Motorcycle Accidents

There are several rider-related factors that can cause motorcycle accidents:

• Speeding: Driving above speed limits reduces reaction time and increases the severity of a collision. 
• Alcohol Impairment: Operating a motorcycle under the influence impairs judgment and coordination. 
• Inexperience: Inadequate training or experience leads to making the wrong decisions while on the road. 
• Reckless Maneuvers: Sudden change of lanes or weaving in and out of lanes increases the chance of an accident.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Motorcyclists are grossly overrepresented in traffic crashes and fatalities. According to NHTSA, speeding was a contributing factor in 35% of all fatalities in motorcycle crashes in 2022. The deeper truth in this alarming fact is that excessive speed will not only diminish the time one has to respond but will also increase injuries when such a collision actually occurs. 

Top 10 Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

1. Left-Turn Collisions: Left turns by other vehicles more often than not do not recognize an oncoming motorcycle and collide with it.
2. Lane Splitting: Traveling between lanes, especially when traffic is heavy, is an invitation for accidents.
3. Speeding: Excessive speed continues to be a major contributor to motorcycle accidents, often increasing the severity of collisions and raising the risk of fatal outcomes. 
4. Alcohol Use: Operating a motorcycle under the influence impairs judgment and coordination. 
5. Inexperienced Riders: Inexperienced bikers have the inability to cope with confusing flow of traffic. 
6. Road Hazards: potholes, gravel, and road depression pose a greater risk for bikes as compared to cars.
7. Sudden Stops: Sudden stopping causes rear collisions that take place when a vehicle running back does not keep a considerable distance.
8. Car Doors: The doors opened by drivers who are sometimes very careless about traffic flow or whether any bike is approaching can cause accidents.
9. Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or ice can make the road fatal for bikers.
10. Mechanical Failures: Tire blowouts or brake failures result in loss of control.

According to TrafficSafetyMarketing. The most common errors that cause rider-related crashes include improper cornering and loss of control.

Legal Considerations for Motorcycle Accident Claims

Determining fault in motorcycle accidents is a critical determinant in legal claims. Factors to be considered include:

• Negligence: Determining whether the rider or another party has failed to exercise reasonable care.
• Traffic Law Violations: Identifying breaches of the traffic regulations by any involved party.
• Road Conditions: Determining if hazardous conditions are a contributory negligence to the accident.

Understanding Motorcycle Accident Settlements

Motorcycle accident settlements are supposed to compensate financially for damages in terms of medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and emotional distress. These are rarely cut-and-dried and depend on a number of factors. Of all those factors, the severity of injuries sustained perhaps is the most significant. Catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injury or damage to the spinal cord, are generally higher in their amount because long-term care and lifetime adjustments on behalf of the victim are required.

According to Mighty., Settlement values for claims in which major or permanent disabilities result from motorcycle collisions are higher.

Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Help with Your Case in San Francisco

At The Cartwright Law Firm, Inc., We’re here to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today!