What Are The Most Commons Types of Motorcycle Accidents
December 14, 2023
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Riding a motorcycle does offer an unmatched sense of freedom and mobility, but it also comes with significant risks, especially when it comes to road accidents. But what’s the most common type of motorcycle accident in the UK? Let’s take a look at some common causes of motorbike collisions, and how to avoid them and remain safe on the road.
First up is single-vehicle accidents: these accidents involve only the motorcycle, and tend to occur either due to the rider losing control, road conditions, or obstacles on the road. In some cases, it might be due to a mechanical failure, which is why regular bike servicing is essential.
Collisions between cars and motorcycles are unfortunately very common in the UK, and these can happen over something as simple as a driver’s blind spot, a car driver's failure to see the motorcycle, or a motorcycle riding too close to a car. Again, weather conditions that obscure either driver’s vision can also cause these types of accidents.
Motorcycles can also sometimes be hit by cars that change lanes without noticing them, and again, this type of accident can take place if the car driver fails to check their blind spots, or fails to signal properly before changing lanes. With these types of collisions, riders making a motorcycle accident claim will usually be able to prove liability on the part of the other driver.
Left-turn accidents are another common type of motorbike accident, and usually occur when a car makes a left turn at an intersection without noticing an oncoming motorcycle. As motorbikes are smaller, this often makes them less visible to car drivers - especially in poor weather conditions - and this can unfortunately lead to collisions.
In heavy traffic conditions - or when a driver is distracted - motorcyclists can end up being rear-ended by vehicles, and while not as impactful for car drivers, these types of accidents can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, even when they occur at low speeds.
Intersections are common spots for accidents in general, but do often include the involvement of motorcycles. Whether it’s caused by drivers not yielding the right of way, running red lights, or when a motorcyclist misjudges the speed of an approaching vehicle, these collisions can prove incredibly dangerous for both parties.
Sideswipe accidents can be characterised by when two vehicles (in this instance, a car and a motorcycle) travel side by side, and the car veers into the motorcycle’s lane, causing a collision. In many instances, vehicle drivers are liable for these accidents due to a lack of awareness of the motorcycle's presence.
Motorcyclists hitting fixed objects is a common type of single-vehicle accident; whether it be a parked car, a bin, or a traffic light, this type of collision tends to happen due to the motorcyclist misjudging a turn, being distracted, or losing control of their motorcycle.
Just like with regular road collisions, adverse weather conditions like rain, ice, or fog, can increase the risk of accidents for motorcyclists, and this is why it’s often recommended for motorbike riders and cyclists to keep off the road during dangerous rain or snow. From slippery roads, reduced visibility, and the inability to brake effectively, it’s the perfect - and unfortunate - recipe for accidents.
Finally, rider error and inexperience are two significant factors in many motorcycle accidents: overestimating one's riding skills or underestimating the motorcycle's power can lead to crashes, with beginner riders being particularly at risk for dangerous collisions.
So, how can you mitigate the risks of the above-mentioned accidents? To be a safe and responsible motorcyclist, always consider the following safety tips:
