Stephen Hasner | Motorcycle Accidents | April 1, 2023
According to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, motorcycles represent a mere 2% of the total number of registered vehicles in the state. However, in 2019, they accounted for nearly 11% of traffic fatalities and 21% of driver fatalities. These findings also indicate that Atlanta has a higher rate of crashes than rural areas.
With numbers like these, it makes sense for those living or commuting in Atlanta to take preventive measures to protect themselves.
To help keep you and your loved ones safe, take a look at these seven common motorcycle crashes in Atlanta and how you can avoid them:
1. Left-Turning Vehicles
Accidents involving left-turning vehicles occur when a driver turns left in front of the motorcyclist and strikes it. This is extremely dangerous for the person operating the motorcycle because they do not provide the same protective infrastructure as a car or truck.
The best way to avoid these types of accidents is to remain vigilant, try to anticipate other drivers’ next moves, and exercise patience when operating your motorcycle. Remember, car drivers are not looking for motorcyclists, so you need to do your best to stay alert.
2. Head-On Collisions
Many motorcycle accidents are head-on collisions. Unfortunately, in the case of a head-on collision with a car or truck, there is a high chance that the person operating the motorcycle could be severely injured or killed.
You can avoid a head-on collision by keeping your speed down and focusing on the road in front of you. Be wary of traffic lights, and keep right as much as possible.
3. Lane Splitting
Lane splitting happens when a motorcycle drives between two lanes occupied by other vehicles. These vehicles are usually stopped or moving very slowly. This maneuver puts the motorcycle in close proximity to other cars, which is a common cause of accidents.
The easiest way to avoid a lane-splitting accident is to not attempt the maneuver. In addition to being dangerous, lane splitting is also illegal in Georgia and could get you fined.
4. Lane Switching
Drivers often do not see motorcycles, including when changing lanes. If a driver tries to merge into a lane occupied by a motorcycle driver and doesn’t see them, it could cause a lane-switching accident.
If you can’t see the car’s mirrors or the face of the driver, they probably can’t see you. If you find yourself in a blind spot, you’ll need to accelerate or decelerate to return to a safe place.
5. Corner Turning
Taking a corner too sharply or hitting dirt and sand can cause a corner-turning accident. In these accidents, you may lose traction and fall.
Avoid corner-turning accidents by maintaining an appropriate speed. This will give you more time to notice objects in front of you and to slow down accordingly.
6. Intoxicated Driving
Intoxicated drivers pose a major problem for everyone on the road. Even if you are not intoxicated, other drivers may not be allowing the same courtesy.
You can reduce your chance of being involved in an intoxicated driving accident by avoiding areas and dates where people are more likely to be drinking and driving — and, of course, by ensuring you do not ride while intoxicated yourself.
7. Speeding
Speeding slows your reaction time and is a frequent cause of motorcycle accidents.
Make sure to always abide by the speed limit, no matter what vehicle you drive. If you see other cars speeding, do your best to avoid them.
Prevention is Key
A motorcycle accident can leave a victim with life-altering injuries and medical debt. Understanding what causes motorcycle accidents is the first step to preventing these types of accidents in Atlanta and across the country.
Should you find yourself the victim of an accident, a motorcycle accident attorney can help you explore your legal options.
Contact the Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Hasner Law, P.C. For Help
For more information, please contact the Atlanta motorcycle accident law firm of Hasner Law P.C. at our nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve in Fulton County, Chatham County, and its surrounding areas:
Hasner Law PC – Atlanta Law Office
2839 Paces Ferry Rd SE #1050
Atlanta, GA 30339
(678) 888-4878
Hasner Law PC – Savannah Law Office
221 W York St
Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 234-2334
