Anyone who enjoys riding motorcycles is likely not surprised to learn that motorcycle accidents are on the rise. However, you may be surprised to learn some of the results of a recent study into motorcycle accidents. Read on to learn more and if you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation.
The Way the Study Worked
This study was different than most, which just compile data from accident reports. Instead, this study looked at 100 bikers on a variety of road types throughout many states. Each participating rider had five cameras strapped to them. GPS data was then collected to note any crashes or near-crashes. Video feeds allowed the researchers to see 360 degrees around the riders so they could see everything involved in an accident.
What the Study Found
Throughout the course of the study, there were 30 motorcycle accidents and 122 near-accidents. By analyzing the data, they found that intersections are the most dangerous places. This is not a surprise to any driver, but what may be surprising is that accidents at intersections with no traffic signals were 41 times as likely as at an intersection with a traffic signal.
The study also found that grades are dangerous. A motorcycle driver who was going downgrade was at 4x the risk of a person on level ground, and a motorcycle that was going uphill was twice as likely to get into an accident. Bikers were not surprised by this, or by the fact that gravel and dirt roads are nine times as dangerous as paved roads.
One in Five Accidents Were Caused by Other Vehicle Drivers
We have seen many statistics that show that accidents involving motorcycles and car drivers are the fault of the car driver about 50% of the time. This study did not show that. Instead, it found that of the 99 crashes and near-crashes that involved any other vehicle, whether a car, truck, or other motorcycle, only 19 of them were caused by the other vehicle crossing into the path of the motorcycle.
What Can You Do with this Information?
Information like this is only helpful if we can then use it to modify behavior and reduce the chance of being involved in an accident. The study makes it clear that a few different behaviors can help reduce the number of accidents: Driving slower, leaving enough space between your bike and other drivers, staying focused, scanning further ahead, and ensuring you have an escape plan.
If you have already been injured in a motorcycle or car accident, we urge you to contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation. We can go over the specifics with you to determine who was at fault. Once we know, we can take appropriate action to ensure you get compensation for the damages you suffered.
