12 Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Michigan

TOP MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT CAUSES

We’ve put together this list of 12 motorcycle accident causes that include incidents with other cars and non-vehicle related causes as well.

1. Motorists failing to see motorcycles 

In the majority of motorcycle accidents that involve a passenger vehicle, the driver does not see the motorcycle in time to prevent the crash. As a result, the driver violates the right of way of the motorcyclist, who has insufficient time to react.

While this might not be the biker’s fault, avoiding riding too close to other cars as well as steering clear of vehicle blind spots can help prevent visibility-caused accidents.

2. Head-on collisions with a passenger vehicle

These are among the deadliest accidents for motorcyclists, often resulting in serious injury or death. Unfortunately, head-on collisions are one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. 

For the best accident prevention, bikers must always utilize caution and take on the responsibility of watching out for other drivers. Cars commonly change lanes, oncoming traffic attempts to pass slow moving vehicles, and oftentimes drivers fail to see motorcyclists.

3. Cars making left turns in the path of a motorcycle

Left turns are a common cause of all motor vehicle accidents, but they are especially dangerous for motorcyclists. These collisions typically occur when the motorcycle is going straight through an intersection or attempting to pass the car.

Because many truck and car drivers struggle to see motorcyclists, always approach an intersection, even if you have the right of way, with a sense of caution.

4. Motorcycle lane splitting

Lane splitting is when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of stopped or slowly moving cars, often riding close to surrounding cars with limited room to maneuver.

The fact that lane splitting is among one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents speaks to its danger and why it is prohibited in the state of Michigan.

5. Speeding

A motorcyclist has virtually no protection when struck by a car traveling at a high speed. The faster the car (and the motorcycle) are going, the greater the chance that the motorcyclist will be severely injured. In addition, a motorcyclist who is speeding has less control and less ability to stop quickly to avoid a car or road obstacle. 

The best prevention is to be aware of others and to limit your own speed to the specified speed limits.

6. Alcohol or drugs

Approximately one-third of Michigan’s fatal motorcycle accidents involved a driver or motorcyclist who was under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In addition to putting themselves and others at risk, drunk drivers (and motorcyclists) may incur significant legal consequences. These include jail time, hefty fines and loss of driving privileges. A drunk driver who causes an accident where another person dies may also be charged with manslaughter.

7. Collisions between motorcycles and fixed objects

If a motorcyclist veers off the road and hits a fixed object such as a tree, the injuries are likely to be severe. And, if the motorcyclist is thrown from the bike as a result of the crash, the consequences could be fatal. 

Keeping both arms on the handles of your bike, operating your motorcycle with adequate light for visibility, and watching for objects or even deer can help prevent loss of control.

8. Motorcycle deer accidents

Hitting a deer can cause serious damage to a motorcycle and its rider. In addition, deer often dart onto roadways quickly, leaving little time for drivers or motorcyclists to avoid them. 

While often unavoidable, knowing the times that deer are most mobile such as dawn and dusk are important to decreasing the risk of a motorcycle accident.

9. Road hazards

Because motorcycles are relatively small and less stable than automobiles, even a minor hazard can cause a biker to lose control. Potholes, small animals, slick roads, uneven surfaces, wet leaves or grass, puddles and fallen objects or debris can result in a serious accident. 

Being familiar with the roadways for your rides is a good way to help ensure safety.

10. Weather conditions

Rain and snow can cause wet pavement or icy roads. A biker who hits a patch of ice is more likely to take a spill or swerve off the road or into oncoming traffic. And, without the protection an automobile affords, motorcyclists are liable to be severely hurt or killed if a crash occurs. 

Saving your motorcycling for the three seasons of the year that are most enjoyable is a great way to prevent winter-related motorcycle injuries.

11. High-performance motorcycles

While the majority of motorcycles on the road are not high-performance, these bikes are involved in a disproportionate number of accidents. Some of these motorcycles are capable of traveling at very high speeds, up to 150 mph or more. Needless to say, a motorcyclist riding at that speed will likely be unable to avoid an oncoming vehicle or fixed object. It is also easier to lose control of a bike that is traveling over 100 mph.

12. Defective equipment

While only a small percentage of accidents are attributed to equipment failure, a motorcyclist can sustain serious or fatal injuries as a result of a defective part. The most common examples are: 

• Defective tires
• Brake failures
• Jammed throttles
• Faulty wiring
• Malfunctioning turn signals
• Faulty brake lights
• Engine defects

If the defective equipment causes an accident where a motorcyclist is severely hurt or killed, the product manufacturer may be liable. In other situations, a repair shop or technician may be at fault. Sometimes more than one party may be responsible, which is why it’s important to consult an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer.

GET THE BERNSTEIN BIKER ADVANTAGE®

Many of our lawyers and staff members ride motorcycles. We understand first-hand the joy and the challenges that bikers experience. And, we take these cases personally because we know how devastating a motorcycle accident can be.

Motorcycle law is complicated, but finding the right motorcycle accident attorney is simple. Fill out the brief form below or contact us today for a free, remote no-obligation consultation from the safety of your home.