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Riding through Central New York’s winding roads and scenic countryside is an experience that draws motorcyclists from all over the region.
However, with the enjoyment of riding comes serious risks. Between 2015 and 2019, New York State recorded an annual average of 4,043 motorcycle riders injured in crashes. Of these, an average of 146 resulted in death.
While motorcycle crashes can happen for various reasons, many are caused by other motorists’ negligence. When drivers are distracted or negligent, especially when making left-hand turns or changing lanes, they put motorcycle riders in grave danger. Motorcyclists are 22 times more likely to die in a crash than car occupants, making these incidents especially devastating.
Recognizing the most common types and causes of crashes for motorcyclists and taking preventative measures helps riders stay safe.
Left-Turn Collisions
A split-second decision made by someone else at an intersection can be life-threatening for a motorcyclist, especially when a driver turns left into a motorcyclist’s path. These crashes often occur when a driver misjudges the approaching motorcycle’s speed or simply fails to see it altogether.
In 2021, 43% of fatal motorcycle crashes involving another vehicle occurred when the vehicle was turning left. Many drivers instinctively scan for larger vehicles, unintentionally overlooking motorcycles, a dangerous oversight that can have deadly consequences.
How To Avoid It:
- Approach intersections cautiously and be ready to react if a car looks like it might turn into your path.
- Position yourself where you’re most visible to drivers.
- Reduce speed and cover the brakes when approaching a car waiting to turn left.
- Make eye contact with the driver, if possible, to make sure they see you.
Lane-Splitting Accidents
When a motorcyclist rides between lanes to navigate slow-moving or stopped traffic, it’s called lane-splitting. While allowed in some states, New York prohibits the practice.
Lane-splitting can be dangerous because drivers may change lanes, open doors, or drift over the line without checking their surroundings, putting motorcyclists at serious risk of an accident.
How To Avoid It:
- Avoid lane-splitting and maintain the full use of your lane at all times, even in heavy traffic or congested streets.
- Choose a safe lane position that allows you to be visible to other drivers, such as near the center of the lane.
- If riding with a partner, use New York’s two-abreast rule (riding side by side in the same lane) to increase your visibility to other drivers and minimize blind spot risks.
- Always signal clearly before turning or changing directions.
Lane-Switching Accidents
Motorcycles are much narrower than cars and trucks, making riders more likely to disappear into a driver’s blind spot. If drivers aren’t paying attention while merging, they may unintentionally drift into a motorcycle’s path, increasing the risk of a collision.
How To Avoid It:
- Stay out of blind spots whenever possible.
- Watch for signs that a driver may change lanes, such as a turn signal, head movement, or a slight drift in their lane.
- Use your horn or rev your engine if a vehicle starts merging into your space.
- Increase your visibility by wearing bright or reflective gear, especially in low-light conditions.
Rear-End Collisions
Motorcycles are vulnerable to rear-end crashes at traffic lights or congested traffic, often due to distracted or impatient drivers. Because motorcycles have a smaller profile than cars, drivers may misjudge their own speed and distance from a stopped motorcycle, increasing the risk of a collision.
How To Avoid It:
- Flash your brake lights a few times before coming to a stop to catch the attention of drivers behind you.
- Stay in gear at a stoplight and be ready to move if you see a car approaching too fast.
- Position yourself for an escape route by stopping toward the edge of the lane rather than in the center.
- Maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead to avoid sudden stops.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on crashes are among the deadliest for motorcyclists. These typically happen when a car crosses into the opposite lane, usually due to distracted driving, impairment, or misjudging a curve.
How To Avoid It:
- Ride defensively and anticipate that other drivers might make mistakes.
- Stay toward the right side of your lane to create more space between you and oncoming traffic.
- Reduce speed when approaching blind curves, where an oncoming driver might drift into your lane.
- Be ready to take evasive action if a vehicle appears to be veering into your path.
Road Hazard Accidents
Unlike cars, motorcycles lack the stability of four wheels, making them more vulnerable to road hazards. Potholes, gravel, wet pavement, and debris can quickly cause a rider to lose control, especially in low-visibility conditions or at night.
How To Avoid It:
- Scan the road ahead and be aware of changes in surface conditions.
- Adjust your speed when riding on unfamiliar roads.
- Avoid sudden swerves by making smooth, controlled adjustments to your path.
- Use proper braking techniques by applying both brakes evenly to maintain balance and traction.
Take Action If You’ve Been in a Motorcycle Accident
Even the safest riders can end up injured in a crash due to another driver’s negligence. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, a knowledgeable Syracuse motorcycle accident lawyer can help you seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, medications, and other expenses.
Contact our law firm today to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
