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Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Columbia, MO

When insurance companies evaluate motorcycle accidents, they often look for reasons to blame the rider. However, the common causes of motorcycle accidents in Columbia, MO typically involve driver negligence. The motorcycle accident attorneys at AW Smith Law strive to identify all contributing factors in a motorcycle accident to determine liability and get you the compensation you deserve.

Speeding

Speeding can substantially increase the risk of collisions, including those involving motorcycles. Not only do high rates of speed contribute to many motorcycle accidents in Columbia, but they can also increase the severity of a wreck’s resulting injuries.

Tailgating

Tailgating, or traveling too close to a vehicle, can cause a collision when the leading car hits its brakes. Motorcycles can stop faster than the average passenger vehicle due to their smaller size. Columbia drivers following too closely behind motorcycles may have more difficulty stopping at short notice, potentially causing devastating accidents resulting in catastrophic injuries.

Distracted Driving

Distraction behind the wheel is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Columbia. In some instances, distracted drivers may fail to notice motorcycles on the road. As a result, they may attempt to change lanes or pull out into traffic on top of a motorcycle, causing a wreck.

Failure to Share the Road

Motorcycles have the same right to use the road as larger passenger vehicles. Unfortunately, some drivers may fail to share the road safely by not yielding to motorcycles or trying to pressure them out of the way. Some drivers may also drift into a motorcycle’s lane. These actions can prove deadly in the event of an accident, especially if the Columbia motorcycle rider cannot respond in time to a car’s movements.

Unsafe Lane Changes

Even drivers who have their attention on the road may attempt to change lanes abruptly, raising the odds of a motorcycle accident. Motorcycles often fit into the blind spot of passenger vehicles, and drivers changing lanes quickly or without looking may end up striking a motorcycle directly.

Dangerous Weather

Motorcycles also face increased accident risk in dangerous weather conditions. Poor visibility, slick roads, and other weather-related hazards can make it more difficult for motorcycles and passenger cars alike to maneuver safely. In dangerous Columbia weather, drivers may need to take extra precautions to avoid the risk of an accident, including looking out for motorcycles.

Discuss Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents with a Columbia Attorney

Whether you suffered injuries due to one of these common causes of motorcycle accidents in Columbia, MO, or because of another type of negligence on the road, contact an attorney from AW Smith Law. A lawyer could help you negotiate with insurance companies and recover the compensation you deserve.

At AW Smith Law, we strive to help motorcycle accident victims identify the cause of their wreck and seek fair compensation for their injuries. Reach out to us today for a free consultation.