Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in North Carolina (2024)

Motorcycles symbolize the thrill of freedom and the excitement of the open road, but that sense of adventure often comes with significant risks. Riders face unique dangers that can lead to severe accidents, especially on North Carolina’s bustling roads. Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents in North Carolina is essential for reducing risks and staying safe. With the right precautions, riders can embrace the joy of motorcycling while prioritizing their safety.

Alcohol

Operating a motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol is a dangerous decision that significantly increases the risk of fatal accidents. In 2022, nearly half of all motorcycle fatalities involved riders with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, categorizing them as alcohol-impaired.

Alcohol diminishes a rider’s ability to react quickly to sudden hazards, such as debris on the road or erratic drivers. For motorcyclists, impaired judgment and slower reflexes can have catastrophic consequences.

Fixed Objects

Not all motorcycle accidents involve collisions with other vehicles. Many result from crashes into fixed objects, including parked cars, guardrails, utility poles, or even roadway debris.

Riders may lose control due to excessive speed, sudden swerves to avoid obstacles, or misjudging turns, causing them to collide with stationary hazards. To prevent these incidents, motorcyclists should stay vigilant, ride at safe speeds, and practice defensive driving techniques that allow for better control and quicker reactions.

Lack of Awareness

A common cause of motorcycle accidents is the failure of other drivers to notice motorcyclists on the road. Many crashes occur when a car or truck changes lanes or makes a left turn, cutting off a motorcycle they failed to detect.

This lack of awareness can stem from the smaller size of motorcycles, which makes them less visible, especially in a vehicle’s blind spot. Riders can reduce their risk by using headlights, positioning themselves where they are most visible, and anticipating that other drivers may not see them.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting, wherein a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, is particularly hazardous. Although some riders use this technique to save time in heavy traffic, it dramatically increases the likelihood of accidents. Cars may change lanes without warning, leaving little room for motorcyclists to maneuver. Additionally, drivers often don’t expect motorcycles to be riding between lanes, leading to sudden and dangerous encounters.

Low Visibility

Low visibility poses a significant threat to motorcyclists, especially during dawn, dusk, or adverse weather conditions, like rain or fog. Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, making them harder to spot, even in optimal conditions.

Riders can address this challenge by wearing brightly colored clothing and reflective gear, which enhances their visibility to other drivers. Keeping headlights on and using hand signals can also make a critical difference in reducing accidents caused by low visibility.

Speeding

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022, 35% of motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes were speeding at the time of the incident. Speeding reduces the amount of time a rider has to react to unexpected obstacles, such as a car pulling out or a sharp curve in the road. It also makes it more difficult to maintain control of the motorcycle, increasing the likelihood of losing traction or skidding.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is a growing issue and poses a serious risk to motorcyclists. Drivers who are texting, adjusting their GPS, or engaging in other distractions often fail to notice motorcycles until it’s too late. This delayed reaction can lead to collisions, especially at intersections or during lane changes. Riders can mitigate this risk by staying alert, anticipating driver errors, and positioning themselves to maximize visibility.

Road Hazards

Motorcycles are more vulnerable to road hazards than larger vehicles. Potholes, uneven pavement, gravel, and debris can cause riders to lose control, sometimes leading to devastating crashes. Unlike cars, motorcycles lack the stability to handle sudden changes in road conditions. Riders can protect themselves by scanning the road ahead, reducing speed in hazardous areas, and maintaining proper tire pressure for better traction.

FAQs

What Is the Main Cause of Most Motorcycle Accidents?

Most motorcycle accidents are caused by driver negligence or a failure to see motorcyclists. Common contributing factors include cars making left-hand turns in front of motorcycles, unsafe lane changes, and distracted driving. Road hazards like debris or uneven pavement also pose risks. Motorcyclists are encouraged to practice defensive driving and wear protective gear to reduce the likelihood of accidents caused by these factors.

Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Occur?

Most motorcycle accidents occur at intersections or in urban areas with high traffic density. Intersections are particularly dangerous due to left-turning vehicles and cars failing to yield to motorcycles. Urban areas also present risks, like sudden stops, pedestrians, and distracted drivers. Riders are advised to stay alert, anticipate hazards, and position themselves defensively when navigating these environments.

What Is a Common Type of Motorcycle Accident?

A common type of motorcycle accident involves vehicles making left-hand turns and colliding with motorcyclists who are traveling straight, overtaking, or passing them. These accidents typically occur at intersections and are often due to a failure to notice motorcycles. Riders can reduce risk by increasing visibility, maintaining a safe distance, and being cautious when approaching intersections or turning vehicles.

What Is a Major Factor in Motorcycle Accidents?

A major factor in motorcycle accidents is visibility. Motorcycles are smaller and less noticeable than cars, which can lead to drivers overlooking them during lane changes or turns. Weather conditions, poor road lighting, and dark clothing can exacerbate this issue. Riders should wear reflective gear, use headlights during the day, and position themselves strategically in traffic to enhance visibility.

Schedule Your Motorcycle Accident Consultation Today

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, The Law Office of William T. Corbett, Jr., P.L.L.C., is here to help. With decades of experience in handling complex personal injury cases, our firm can provide trusted legal guidance to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our North Carolina office today to schedule your personalized consultation.