5 Common Reasons for Motorcycle Accidents in the Summer

 Posted on May 28, 2024 in Motorcycle Accidents

Summer is a popular season for motorcyclists, with warm weather and clear skies providing ideal conditions for riding. However, the increased number of motorcyclists on the road during the summer months also leads to more accidents. There are multiple reasons why motorcycle accidents can occur in the summer, and even if motorcyclists take precautions and do their best to stay safe, they can be injured in collisions. If you are a motorcyclist who has been injured in an accident, an experienced attorney can help you take steps to recover financial compensation.

Increased Traffic

During the summer, the roads are often busier due to vacation travel, road trips, and an overall increase in leisure activities. This heightened traffic can lead to more accidents, especially when drivers may become impatient or distracted. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in heavy traffic, where their smaller size makes them less visible to other drivers. When people in vehicles fail to notice motorcycles or refuse to share the road safely, motorcyclists can suffer serious harm.

Road Construction

Summer is the peak season for road work, which can cause numerous hazards for motorcyclists. Construction zones often feature uneven surfaces, loose gravel, and sudden lane changes, all of which can be challenging to navigate on a motorcycle. Other drivers may also make mistakes, causing them to swerve into other lanes, stop suddenly, or engage in other risky maneuvers. These issues can increase the risk of accidents in which drivers collide with motorcycles, especially if drivers are not paying close attention to their surroundings.

Distracted Driving

Due to the warm weather, holiday mindsets, or a general lack of the care needed to drive safely, drivers may be prone to distractions such as talking to passengers, using their phones, or adjusting in-car entertainment systems. Distracted driving is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents throughout the year, and as distractions increase during the summer, more motorcyclists are likely to be injured by distracted drivers. When a person is not fully focused on the road, they may fail to notice motorcyclists, or they may not be able to react in time to avoid a collision.

Drunk Driving

Summer festivities, including barbecues, beach parties, and other social gatherings, often involve alcohol or other intoxicating substances. Unfortunately, this can lead to an increase in drunk driving incidents if drivers get behind the wheel when they are in a state where they cannot operate a vehicle safely. Motorcyclists are at a higher risk of being injured in accidents caused by impaired drivers, who may have slower reaction times and impaired judgment.

Weather Conditions

While summer weather is generally favorable for riding, sudden storms or extreme heat can create dangerous conditions. Rain can make roads slick, reducing traction for motorcycles, while excessive heat can cause fatigue and dehydration. While motorcyclists may take steps to address these issues and take extra care to maintain their safety, other drivers may fail to do so. When drivers fail to account for weather conditions that could potentially be dangerous, they will be more likely to collide with motorcycles.

Contact Our Santa Clara County Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences, but with the help of a knowledgeable attorney, injured riders can navigate the legal process and focus on their recovery. At Law Office of John J. Garvey, III, our San Jose motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate a motorcycle accident to determine the causes and gather evidence of negligence by drivers. We can ensure that motorcyclists take the correct steps when filing insurance claims or taking legal action against negligent parties who were responsible for their injuries. Contact us at 408-293-7777 to schedule a free consultation. 

Sources:

https://ride.vision/blog/10-top-motorcycle-accident-causes/

https://www.nhtsa.gov/road-safety/motorcycles