Common Causes of Fort Worth Motorcycle Accidents

There are many factors that can lead to motorcycle accidents happening more frequently than bicycle crashes. Motorcycle drivers and bicyclists are all under a duty to follow the traffic laws of the specific jurisdiction in which they are riding, but there are also specific traffic laws that may pertain only to a motorcyclist.

Bicyclists and motorcyclists differ in that a motorcycle requires a person to have a valid driver’s license. Anyone, regardless of age, can ride a bicycle without a license. To operate a motorcycle, though, it requires specific training and being of the legal driving age.

Motorcycle accidents can be caused by numerous factors. They include poorly maintained roads. Dangerous roadways cause riders to wipe out. Potholes, cracked pavement, pooling water, and other types of poor road service conditions can cause an accident. Motorcycles are particularly susceptible because of their lightweight and instability as compared to passenger vehicles.

Since there are several reasons why a collision could occur, it is best to seek help from a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer. They could explain the common causes of Fort Worth motorcycle accidents and help you seek compensation.

Accidents Due to Hazardous Weather

Inclement weather could cause a severe motorcycle collision. Road conditions, storm, and forceful winds can cause roads to become slippery, flooded, and covered with mud or debris. The instability of motorcycles is a danger by itself, but with ice on the road, riders can easily lose control. Furthermore, high winds can cause an otherwise stable rider to waver, plus it can be a risk for riding through or over a roadway hazard. The wind can blow debris such as leaves and sticks onto the road.

Visibility, torrential rains, wind gust, and fog all affect a person’s vision and a person’s ability to see and navigate through traffic. Raindrops can sting the eyes or pool on goggles. A sudden temperature drop can cloud or fog a person’s facemask or goggles, making it impossible to see obstacles and traffic.

Driving Under the Influence

Motorcycle accidents caused by drunk drivers often result in more catastrophic or fatal injuries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2010, nearly 1/3 of all traffic-related deaths were attributed to drunk driving.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving is another common cause of motorcycle collisions. Distracted driving is not only an epidemic in Texas but across the nation. It kills an average of nine people and injures a thousand each day, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Driver Fatigue

A common type of motorcycle accident includes driver fatigue. Fatigue is an underrecognized but common cause of accidents across the nation. Tired driving can occur as a result of a driver not getting enough sleep or due to untreated sleep disorders. Medication, alcohol use, or working overnight shifts can also cause extreme fatigue.

Drowsiness among drivers can have ill effects. Tired drivers may not be able to pay attention to the road ahead. Drivers suffering from fatigue could experience slowed reaction times, preventing them from braking or steering in time to avoid an accident. Extreme tiredness can affect a driver’s ability to make good decisions.

Driving Over the Speed Limit

Speeding has contributed to a majority of motorbike accidents, as a knowledgeable Fort Worth lawyer could explain. Crash data from recent years show about 33 percent of all motorcycle riders involved in fatal crashes are speeding. Speeding kills more than 10,000 people each year in the United States.

How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Fort Worth Could Help

There are many reasons why an accident could occur, including distracted driving, dangerous weather, and speeding. If another party’s negligent actions cause a motorcycle accident, they could be held liable in court.

A knowledgeable motorbike accident lawyer could investigate the collision and determine the exact cause of the accident. Call today to learn about the common causes of Fort Worth motorcycle accidents.