Riding motorbikes is fun for enthusiasts and a mode of commute for many. That said, just like other vehicles there is always a risk of accidents when riding bikes. Unlike cars, motorcycles do not have many safety features. A motorcycle rider is not harnessed with a seat belt and is fully exposed. That is the reason why several motorbike accidents result in serious injuries or worst-case scenario death. Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents will help you avoid dangerous situations. Let’s go through them in detail.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents and Tips to Avoid Them
Following are some common causes of motorcycle accidents and tips to avoid them.
Cornering Too Fast
Motorcycle accidents often take place on corners. Taking a turn with your bike at a high speed is the primary cause behind many motorcycle accidents. Pressing the brakes suddenly can make the motorbike lose traction and increase the chances of a motorcycle accident.
The best way to avoid accidents when cornering is to pay attention to the road signs and ride at manageable speeds.
Getting Distracted
Another popular cause that leads to motorcycle accidents is distracted driving. Texting, applying makeup or listening to loud music via headphones are all big distractions for riders. In the case of delivery riders, constantly looking at the phone to figure out the delivery address or trying to text or call the customer while riding is particularly dangerous.
The best way to avoid distracted driving or riding is to not try multi-tasking. When you ride your motorcycle, hold the handlebars with both hands and focus on the road.
Driving Under the Influence
It is illegal to drive under the influence, driving a car or motorcycle in such a situation can be deadly. Consuming drugs or alcohol generally tends to slow down normal reactions which then leads to severe accidents. Sometimes, it is not the rider’s fault but the driver in the car in front of them is under the influence.
To avoid any sort of unfortunate event, as a motorcycle rider, you must always be mindful that such situations can take place on the road. Notice if a driver acts irrational or drives carelessly and keep a safe distance from them for your own safety.
Naturally, just like motorcycles, driving under the influence is also among the most dangerous things to avoid while driving a car.
Poor Road Conditions
Another cause of motorcycle accidents is speeding on a road that is poorly made or has blockages. Over speeding on a road with sand, water, gravel, hay or ice among other things can potentially cause a bike to slip.
To avoid this, always try to determine the road condition in advance and ride your motorcycle at manageable speeds. Hitting the bike suddenly and losing control of the motorbike can result in serious consequences.
Negligent Lane Changing
Negligent lane changing is also among the popular causes of motorcycle accidents. Always check the side mirrors before changing lanes. Don’t try to get in between two cars to change lanes either, this can result in severe wreckage. Also, keep in mind a car may change lanes on busy city roads without notice. This manoeuvre by the car driver can be fatal for someone on a motorcycle.
To avoid chances of motorcycle accidents always think of ways about changing lanes safely. Motorcyclists must not make sudden lane changes. They should plan for lane changes in advance and check the side mirrors. Use indicators to let other motorists sharing the road know that you are going to make a lane change.
Car Door Opens Suddenly
Motorcyclists often get injured when trying to weave in and out of traffic. Going around cars, manoeuvring the motorcycle in parking areas or riding really close to parked cars outside designated lanes is an invitation to an altercation. Case in point: a parked car may open its door suddenly and the rider will slam into it and get injured.
To avoid this situation, avoid weaving in and out of traffic or outside designated lines of the parking areas.
Rear End Collision
If a motorcyclist comes to a slow stop or brakes suddenly, the car or vehicle at the back is going to slam in it. Therefore, before making a stop, be very sure of your motorcycle’s distances with the vehicles at the back.
Those were the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. In an attempt to enhance road safety measures, the RTA and Dubai police have taken traffic safety initiatives for motorcycle riders.
If you are new to the world of motorcycling, read this guide on getting a motorcycle licence in Dubai. On the other hand, avid riders looking to buy a ride, can take a look at these used motorcycles for sale in the UAE.
Stay tuned to UAE’s top auto blog for more on car DIY solutions, car repair tips and much more.
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