Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen?

Jul 12, 2024
McDonald Injury Law

Small and not always easily visible, motorcycles are more vulnerable to road accidents than other vehicles. However, not all road areas are equally risky. Where do most motorcycle accidents happen?

If we look into where motorcycle accidents occur most, we can recognize common locations for motorcycle crashes. To stay safe, pay extra attention when approaching motorcycle accident hotspots.

Top Areas for Motorcycle Accidents

High speeds, challenging road conditions, and traffic congestion create risky areas for motorcycle accidents. Almost every county has locations where deadly accidents happen again and again. These are among the most frequent sites of motorcycle collisions. 

Intersections

Intersections appear on every list of places with high motorcycle crash rates. What makes these spots so risky for motorcyclists? Intersections combine a high traffic volume and a stream of vehicles traveling in multiple directions. 

Any motorist should slow down before an intersection, pay close attention to other vehicles, and give the right of way when necessary. Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable because many drivers watch out only for other cars and don’t notice a small motorbike.

For instance, if a car turning left moves in the way of an oncoming motorbike, a head-on collision often happens. Rear-end crashes occur when a motorcyclist stops at a red light, and a larger vehicle coming from behind doesn’t brake in time. 

Non-Interstate Roads With Challenging Conditions

Those who ask, “Where do most motorcycle accidents happen?” may be surprised to discover how many motorbike collisions occur on non-interstate roads.

Interstate highways are certainly risky because of their high speed limits. However, many bikers ride for fun. Popular motorcycle routes often feature lots of bends and hairpin turns. This type of challenging ride can turn deadly if you don’t pay attention to road hazards.

Urban traffic

Urban areas are also among the locations where motorcycle accidents occur often. Busy cities have a dense traffic flow and plenty of distractions, including bicyclists, pedestrians, and construction sites. When many vehicles move through the same area, some will likely have blind spots that cause drivers to overlook a motorcycle.

Two-Lane Highways

If a distracted or inebriated motorist moves into the opposite lane, it can lead to a catastrophic head-on collision and possibly a chain accident that involves several vehicles. Such collisions are often fatal for motorcyclists, who have much less physical protection than drivers.

What To Do If You Suffer a Motorcycle Accident

Even extremely careful riders can suffer motorcycle collisions. If this happens to you, call 911 or the police and report the accident immediately. If possible, wait for the police on the scene so you can answer the reporting officer’s questions.

In the meantime, photograph the scene from all angles, exchange contact and insurance details with the other motorist, and ask any witnesses for their names and contact info. 

Go for a full medical check-up and save all your records. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions to a T. Let your insurance company know you suffered an accident. If you sustained serious injuries, start working with a lawyer ASAP to expedite your claim. 

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Call Geoff McDonald & Associates

Next to “Where do most motorcycle accidents happen?” a common question is, “How can I protect my rights after a motorcycle accident?”

At Geoff McDonald & Associates, we defend the interests of people injured in motorcycle crashes. If you suffered a motorbike accident, contact us for a free case evaluation. Our legal team will help you establish liability and guide you through all the steps of an insurance claim.

Call (804) 203-0581 or contact us online to schedule a no-cost consultation.