Alejandro Figueroa | September 16, 2021 | Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles can be a source of fun and adventure, but they also come with increased risks for riders. Motorcycles leave their riders fully exposed to the surrounding environment. 

Whether you ride a sportbike, a cruiser, or a touring motorcycle, safety is critical. A helmet is the most important piece of safety gear when riding a motorcycle. 

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), motorcycle helmets are 67% effective for preventing brain injuries. They are also 37% effective in preventing fatal motorcycle injuries. 

Below, we will briefly discuss seven of the most common kinds of motorcycle collisions. We’ll also provide tips on how to avoid them and stay safe.

1. Left Turn Accidents

When a car makes a lefthand turn in front of a motorcycle, they may cut off the motorcyclist. 

Typically, this situation arises when the motorcyclist is:

  • Traveling through an intersection
  • Passing another vehicle
  • Overtaking another car

To avoid this type of accident, you should leave plenty of space between you and other cars. Watch other drivers’ head motions and the movement of vehicles’ wheels to anticipate their movements.

2. Lane Switching

Many times, drivers fail to notice a motorcyclist in their blind spot. If another vehicle begins to merge into your path, it can cause an accident.

To prevent this, you should avoid riding in other vehicles’ blind spots. When that is unavoidable, look for the following signs that a driver is turning or changing lanes:

  • Turn signals
  • Wheel motion
  • The driver checking their mirrors

Make sure to ride defensively when you are close to other vehicles.

3. Head-On Collisions

Head-on crashes are one of the deadliest types of motorcycle collisions.

To avoid head-on collisions, follow these tips:

  • Keep your eyes on the road ahead
  • Keep your motorcycle to the right
  • Ride slowly and defensively
  • Ride off the road, if necessary

Merging onto the shoulder or into the grass beside the road can help you to avoid head-on collisions.

4. Lane Splitting Accidents

Lane splitting happens when motorcyclists ride between other slowed or stopped vehicles in traffic. This dangerous maneuver significantly increases the chances of an accident.

To prevent this type of collision, you should avoid lane splitting. In addition to being dangerous, lane splitting is illegal in the state of Florida.

5. Intoxication Accidents

Many motorcycle accidents result from alcohol intoxication. Motorcycle riding is often a social activity. Because of this, motorcyclists may go to restaurants or bars before riding. Avoiding intoxication is critical when riding a motorcycle. 

If you have had too many drinks while biking, contact a taxi or rideshare service to get off the road safely. 

6. Corner Turning Crashes

Controlling a motorcycle can be difficult, especially when turning on sharp corners. If the road is wet or slick, motorcyclists may lose traction and crash.

To avoid this type of mishap, make sure to maintain an appropriate speed. Approach turns slowly and do not accelerate until you are certain that you can safely handle the maneuver.

7. High-Speed Accidents

Riding at high speeds can be exhilarating. However, it is also very dangerous. 

Because motorcycles do not offer the safety features present in other types of vehicles, high-speed accidents can result in catastrophic injuries or death. Make sure to maintain a safe speed to prevent these dangerous crashes.

Following the speed limit will also help you to avoid the legal consequences of driving too fast, including tickets and fines.

These seven common types of motorcycle accidents are preventable with safe driving techniques.

Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Law Firm in Tampa, FL

If you’ve been injured in an accident in Tampa, FL, and need legal help, contact our Tampa motorcycle accident lawyers at Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.

Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers
Bank of America Plaza
101 E Kennedy Blvd #2400
Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 222-8656

We also provide legal assistance throughout the Tampa Bay Area including Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, and Bradenton.