Factors Contributing to Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Car and Truck Drivers

As a motorcycle enthusiast, knowing the factors contributing to accidents can educate you about the realities and dangers riders face on the road. Hopefully, this awareness can make you more vigilant and safer on the open road.

While there are many ways a motorcycle owner can cause an accident themselves, let's explore the other side of the fence - motorcycle misadventures caused by car and truck drivers.

What Percentage of Motorcycle Riders Get in Accidents?

In the United States, there are roughly eight million registered motorcycles. This number grows every year as more people get their motorcycle licenses. Regrettably, over one percent of registered motorcycles will be involved in an accident yearly. While one percent sounds minuscule, one must look at the actual numbers to understand the true problem.

This percentage means roughly 90,000 motorcycle accidents occur annually on America's roads. Some believe this is much higher as not all motorcycle accidents are reported. Tragically, there are also over 5,000 fatal accidents annually, and survivors are often severely injured.

What Percentage of Motorcycle Accidents Are the Riders Fault?

Many road users blame motorcyclists for wreckless maneuvers, and when an accident occurs, some might be inclined to blame the motorcycle rider first before knowing the facts.

But once again, while the numbers reveal that motorcyclists cause accidents, it also shows that other road users, like car and truck drivers, cause most motorcycle collisions.

According to estimations, less than 20 percent of motorcyclists are deemed partially or entirely responsible for all accidents. The percentage of motorcycle accidents caused by cars and trucks shifts, but they remain the leading responsible party.

Common Factors That Cause Motorcycle Accidents

• Unsafe Lane Changes: Motorists and truck drivers often fail to look at their mirrors or signal when they change lanes. This causes many accidents.
• Motorists Forget About Motorcyclists: There are many more cars and trucks on the road than motorcycles. This mental conditioning to focus on other cars makes road users forget to watch for motorcyclists.
• Motorcycles Are Harder to See: Motorcycles have the smallest profile among all road users. This can, and often do, make it hard for motorists and truck drivers to see them in time. Most accidents caused by this factor occur when traffic is moving faster than usual, traffic is congested, or a vehicle user fails to see a motorcycle when they turn a corner.
• Sudden Stops: Another common factor that causes motorcycle accidents on our roads is when vehicles like cars and large trucks suddenly come to a stop, and a motorcyclist crashes into the back. Many motorcyclists drive too close to vehicles in front of them, preventing them from braking in time when a car or truck is forced to make a sudden stop.
• Drunk Driving: Unfortunately, it remains a sobering reality that U.S. roads are still affected by drivers under the influence of alcohol or other illegal substances. Their reflexes and thinking processes are severely compromised, preventing such road users from stopping in time to avoid a motorcyclist.
• Tip of the Iceberg: When motorcycling is approached responsibly, it can be an extremely safe riding experience. But sometimes, the best preparation, driving, and vigilance cannot save motorcycle riders from the mistakes of others. We've covered only the most common factors, but there are more ways that car and truck drivers can endanger motorcyclists.

Get SteelHorse Law on Your Side

Have you or a cherished one recently experienced a motorcycle accident involving a car? Our team are specialists in the field of motorcycle accidents and compensation. With years of experience, we have in-depth knowledge of all the legal intricacies to navigate your case to a successful conclusion. Trust SteelHorse Law to get the justice you deserve, and let us fight on your behalf. At the same time, you focus on what matters—recovery.

Contact our offices today to learn more about our compensation services and other ways we help motorcycle riders and their families get through this difficult time.