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While motorcycle accidents can happen anywhere, there are certain locations where they are more prevalent.  Riders and drivers of other vehicles should use extra care when riding or driving in the following areas:

Urban Areas

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that approximately 60% of fatal motorcycle crashes occur in urban areas. Urban areas are more likely to have:

• More traffic
• Stop-and-go traffic
• More pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users
• Worn roads that can cause potholes

Intersections

One of the most common locations where motorcycle accidents happen is at an intersection. Approximately half of all motorcycle accidents occur at traffic intersections, according to the NHTSA. Many motorists fail to keep a proper lookout for motorcycles, which are smaller than other types of vehicles. They may turn into an approaching motorcyclist while making a left turn at an intersection.

Rear-end accidents at stop signs or stoplights can also occur at intersections. Even at low speeds, these crashes can be catastrophic for motorcyclists because riders can be ejected from the vehicle and into oncoming traffic.

Freeways

Freeways have higher speed limits, which can correspond with a higher number of motorcycle crashes. Common causes of motorcycle freeway crashes include:

• Motorists merging into traffic without checking for motorcyclists
• Poor road conditions
• Debris such as tire tread, trash, or cargo spills can cause a motorcycle crash
• Higher traffic rates
• Wet roads from weather

Two-Lane Roads

Two-lane roads can be more dangerous for motorcyclists because they place riders in close proximity to other motorists who may not be watching out for them. If other motorists are not driving carefully or watching before they switch lanes or turn, they may cause a crash with a motorcyclist. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to injuries in sideswipe collisions, which can cause a biker to be thrown off their motorcycle or careen into another vehicle.

Motorcyclists can suffer serious injuries in crashes that are caused by careless driving behaviors such as:

• Speeding
• Failing to yield
• Distracted driving
• Impaired driving
• Reckless or aggressive driving

Motorcycles lack the protection that passenger vehicles have, such as seat belts, a steel exterior, or airbags, so riders are more vulnerable to serious injuries.

Dangerous Roads

Certain roads can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, such as roads with sharp turns or roads that have low visibility in case of fog.

How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident that was not your fault, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help by:

• Investigating the cause of the accident
• Identifying all potentially liable parties
• Interviewing witnesses
• Gathering evidence from the accident scene
• Calculating the full extent of your damages
• Negotiating with insurance companies
• Advising you of your legal rights

You can get started with a free case review.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Help with Your Claim

Motorcycle accident claims can be complicated. Some insurance carriers and even law enforcement can have biases against motorcyclists, which can impact how they evaluate the case. The motorcycle accident lawyers from Aitken * Aitken * Cohn can help you pursue compensation for the losses you suffered. Contact us today for a free case consultation.