A Chesapeake man died May 31 after his motorcycle left the road and he was ejected from his seat. According to North Carolina Highway Patrol, the man was riding his 2002 Harley Davidson north on Caratoke Highway around 6 a.m. when the accident occurred. The cause of the accident is under investigation. He was pronounced dead on the scene.
Even the most experienced motorcyclists are susceptible to accidents and subsequent injuries that tend to result. Some of the most common scenarios of motorcycle crashes include the following:
- Head-on collisions. More than half of motorcycle accident deaths are caused by head-on collisions. Most head-on collisions with motorcycles occur when a car strikes the front of the bike.
- Cars making left turns. Left-hand turns are common causes for accidents, but motorcycles are especially difficult for other drivers to spot due to their smaller size. A turning car can strike a motorcycle when the motorcycle is going straight through the intersection, is passing the car or trying to overtake the car.
- Motorcycle lane splitting. Motorcycle riders sometimes move through slow or stopped traffic by lane splitting, or moving in between car lanes. This puts motorcyclists at greater risk for an accident due to the limited maneuverability and close proximity of cars. Additionally, motor vehicle drivers are not anticipating a motorcycle will be passing.
- High performance motorcycles. These sport or super-sport motorcycles are involved in a disproportionate number of crashes. The bikes are extremely fast and their riders tend to be younger and less experienced.
Other common causes for motorcycle accidents include speeding, intoxication, road hazards, and collisions with fixed objects.
Motorcycle accidents may be prevented when riders are aware of the common causes of accidents and take steps to reduce or avoid their risk. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, consult a compassionate personal injury lawyer at Lanier Law Group, P.A.