Have you been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence in Pennsylvania? Contact The Slocum Firm to schedule a free consultation today. We can help you get fair compensation.
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, often leading to severe injuries or even fatalities. Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help riders stay safe on the road and protect themselves in case of an accident.
This page will explore the most frequent reasons for motorcycle accidents in Pennsylvania. By understanding these factors, you can take steps to avoid becoming involved in a crash and know what to do if you find yourself in a difficult situation.
The Slocum Firm is here to help you if you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident. Our Pennsylvania motorcycle accident lawyers deeply understand the local laws and regulations governing these cases. We’re committed to helping victims recover the compensation they deserve.
Whether you’ve been involved in a minor fender bender or a major collision, we’re here to provide the legal representation you need. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Here are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Pennsylvania:
Speeding
Speeding is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Pennsylvania. When drivers of other vehicles exceed the speed limit, their reaction time decreases, making it more difficult to avoid a potential collision.
Speeding can be particularly dangerous for motorcycle riders due to their smaller size and lack of protection compared to cars and trucks.
Motorcycles are more likely to lose control when speeding, especially on uneven road surfaces or poorly maintained roads. The risk of severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries, increases significantly in high-speed crashes.
In fact, speeding often leads to fatal motorcycle accidents, leaving motorcycle accident victims with devastating consequences, from severe injuries to catastrophic injuries.
Key dangers of speeding include:
- Reduced reaction time: Speeding drivers have less time to react to sudden changes, such as an oncoming motorcycle or road hazards.
- Increased stopping distance: The faster a vehicle travels, the longer it takes to come to a complete stop, raising the chances of rear-end collisions.
- Greater impact force: Speeding accidents result in more serious injuries due to the high impact force involved in the crash.
For motorcycle riders, following speed limits and adjusting their speed for road conditions can help prevent accidents. Car drivers, too, should be mindful of the presence of motorcycles and avoid speeding, as a motorcycle accident can occur in the blink of an eye if a driver fails to control their speed.
Visibility Issues
One of the most significant challenges motorcycle riders face on the road is visibility. Motorcycles are smaller and more challenging to spot than other vehicles, making them particularly vulnerable to collisions.
Visibility issues are a significant cause of motorcycle accidents in Pennsylvania, and they can occur in several ways:
- Blind spots: Car drivers often fail to check their blind spots before changing lanes, causing them to collide with a motorcycle rider. Motorcycles can easily be hidden in a car’s blind spot, especially when traffic is congested.
- Low light or poor weather conditions: Driving in rain, fog, or at night reduces visibility for all road users, but it poses a greater risk for motorcycle riders. These conditions can obscure a motorcycle from a driver’s view, leading to dangerous situations.
- Left turn accidents: One of the most common motorcycle accidents. It happens when a car turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. The driver may misjudge the motorcycle’s speed or fail to see it entirely, resulting in a crash.
Motorcycle riders can take steps to improve their visibility, such as wearing bright or reflective clothing and always using their headlights, even during the day. However, other drivers must remain vigilant and aware of motorcycles on the road to reduce the risk of accidents.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting, or riding between slow-moving or stopped traffic lanes, is a contentious issue in motorcycle safety. While lane splitting is legal in some states, Pennsylvania law prohibits it. Despite this, some motorcycle riders split lanes, especially in heavy traffic. This practice can lead to severe accidents as drivers may not expect a motorcycle to pass them between lanes, resulting in a collision.
The risks associated with lane splitting include:
- Reduced reaction time: Cars and trucks changing lanes might not see a motorcyclist lane splitting, causing a crash.
- Limited space: The narrow gap between vehicles leaves little room for error, increasing the chances of a motorcycle crash.
- Driver distractions: Car drivers may be distracted by their phones or other tasks, making it even more likely they won’t see a motorcycle splitting lanes.
While experienced riders may argue that lane splitting helps them avoid being rear-ended in stop-and-go traffic, the practice can still result in fatal accidents.
Motorcyclists are advised to follow Pennsylvania’s traffic laws and avoid lane splitting to reduce the likelihood of severe injuries or fatal crashes.
Left-Hand Turn Accidents
One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in Pennsylvania is a left-hand turn made by another vehicle. These accidents occur when a car driver makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle, often failing to see the motorcycle in time. This type of collision is particularly dangerous because it can result in head-on collisions, which are more likely to cause fatal injuries.
The smaller size of a motorcycle makes it harder for other vehicles to spot them in time, especially when the car driver is distracted or misjudges the motorcycle’s speed. Left turn accidents are a clear example of driver negligence, where the car driver’s lack of attention or poor decision-making leads to a collision.
Motorcycle accident victims involved in left-hand turn accidents often suffer from severe injuries such as broken bones, head injuries, and road rash. The legal process following such accidents can be complex, as determining liability requires a thorough examination of the facts, especially regarding traffic laws and driver negligence.
Poor Road Conditions
Another common cause of motorcycle accidents in Pennsylvania is poor road conditions. Motorcycles are more vulnerable to hazards like uneven road surfaces, potholes, debris, and poorly maintained roads, which can cause a rider to lose control.
When a motorcycle rider hits an unexpected obstacle, the results can be catastrophic, leading to severe injuries such as traumatic brain injuries or internal injuries.
Here are the most common types of poor road conditions that cause motorcycle ccidents:
- Potholes and uneven surfaces.
- Loose gravel or debris on the road.
- Poorly maintained roads and lack of proper signage.
- Malfunctioning traffic lights.
Motorcycle riders should always be cautious and aware of the road ahead to avoid losing control. However, when poor road conditions cause a crash, the legal aspects of the case may involve holding a local government or municipality responsible for failing to maintain the road safely.
Inclement Weather
Inclement weather is another major factor in motorcycle crashes. Rain, snow, and ice can drastically reduce traction on the road, making it more difficult for riders to maintain safe control of their motorcycles.
Visibility is also reduced during bad weather, increasing the likelihood of collisions with other vehicles.
Common weather-related challenges for motorcycle riders include:
- Wet or icy roads that reduce tire traction.
- Due to rain or fog, poor visibility makes it hard for other drivers to see the motorcycle.
- Increased stopping distances in slippery conditions.
While all motorists face challenges in inclement weather, motorcycle riders are at higher risk of suffering more severe injuries due to the lack of protection that a motorcycle provides.
Riders should always check weather conditions before heading out and avoid riding in dangerous weather whenever possible. Wearing protective gear such as helmets and jackets with proper padding can also help prevent catastrophic injuries in a crash.
Mechanical Failures
Mechanical failures are another factor that can lead to motorcycle accidents. A sudden failure in the bike’s motor skills, such as a brake malfunction or a tire blowout, can result in the rider losing control of the motorcycle, leading to an accident.
Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to avoid these issues. Common mechanical failures in motorcycle accidents include:
- Brake failures
- Tire blowouts
- Engine or transmission problems
In some cases, the legal aspects of a motorcycle accident may involve a defective part, leading to a potential product liability claim against the manufacturer.
If a motorcycle accident victim suffers serious injuries due to a mechanical failure, it is important to explore all possible avenues for fair compensation.
Benefits of Hiring a Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer can be crucial for navigating the aftermath. Here are six key benefits of working with a skilled attorney:
Expertise in Navigating Pennsylvania Law
An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer understands Pennsylvania law and can guide you through the complexities of the legal process. From understanding traffic laws to filing claims for motorcycle accidents, they ensure that every legal aspect is addressed.
This expertise is crucial, especially when dealing with issues like motorcycle crash claims, fatal accidents, or driver negligence.
Maximizing Fair Compensation
Motorcycle accident victims often face significant medical expenses and lost wages. A lawyer can help you seek fair compensation for these costs and more.
They will work to ensure that you are compensated for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries or internal injuries. This is particularly important if you have experienced catastrophic injuries or fatal injuries.
Thorough Investigation of the Accident
To build a strong case, a lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation into the causes of the motorcycle accident. This includes examining accidents in Pennsylvania, evaluating road safety conditions, and reviewing factors like distracted driving, reckless driving, or drunk driver involvement. Understanding common causes of motorcycle accidents in Pennsylvania helps determine liability and strengthen your claim.
Handling Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when trying to get fair compensation. A Pennsylvania personal injury lawyer can handle negotiations and communications with insurance adjusters on your behalf.
They will ensure that you are not taken advantage of and that your rights are protected, particularly when faced with complex issues like fatal motorcycle accidents or disputes over protective gear and protective clothing.
Managing the Claims Process
The claims process for motorcycle accidents can be intricate. An attorney can manage the entire process, from filing the claim to gathering evidence, negotiating settlements, and representing you in court if necessary.
This is especially important in cases involving lane splitting, head-on collisions, or collisions with other vehicles where detailed evidence and expert testimony may be required.
Providing Emotional and Practical Support
In addition to legal expertise, a motorcycle accident lawyer provides emotional and practical support. Recovering from a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, and having a lawyer on your side means you can focus on your recovery while they handle the legal complexities.
This support includes advice on dealing with road rash, broken bones, and other serious injuries and ensuring that you receive the necessary care and attention throughout the legal process.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Pennsylvania
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. At The Slocum Firm, we understand the common causes of motorcycle crashes, from distracted driving to lane splitting and severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries or broken bones.
Why You Need a Lawyer:
- Navigating Legal Aspects: We’ll guide you through the claims process, ensuring you understand your rights under Pennsylvania law.
- Seeking Fair Compensation: We help secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering from motorcycle accident victims.
We take all motorcycle accident cases on a continency fee basis, so you will never have to worry about paying upfront to get our help.
Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Contact us at 570-209-7376 for a free consultation and let us help you with the legal process while you focus on recovery.
