It’s no secret that riding a motorcycle can be dangerous, especially in busy areas like Virginia Beach. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are all too common and can result in serious injuries or death. Understanding the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in Virginia Beach can help motorcyclists stay safe on the roads. This blog post will explore the top six causes of motorcycle accidents in Virginia Beach. We’ve included safety tips and strategies to reduce your risk of being involved in an accident.
Speeding
Driving over the posted speed limit is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Virginia Beach. Speeding not only increases the risk of a crash but also reduces the time a driver has to react to dangerous situations, which can easily result in loss of control or collisions with motorcycles and other vehicles. Motorcyclists should always be mindful of the speed of the drivers around them and steer clear of anyone who is clearly speeding.
Left Turns
One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is left turns. When a motorcyclist travels in the same direction as a vehicle that turns left, the driver may not notice the motorcycle and crash into them, causing an accident. Motorcyclists should maintain a cautious distance from vehicles that are preparing to turn to avoid being in this dangerous situation.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a major contributor to motorcycle accidents in Virginia Beach and across the US. Driving drunk or drugged is illegal and also impairs judgment and reaction times, making it difficult for vehicle drivers to be aware of their surroundings and respond to dangerous situations quickly. If someone sharing the road with a motorcyclist is driving erratically, the biker should take care to maintain a safe distance from that person’s vehicle.
Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a significant contributor to motorcycle accidents. Distractions come in many forms, including texting while driving, talking on the phone, and even eating while behind the wheel. All of these activities can take the driver’s attention away from the road, increasing the risk of an accident. To keep themselves safe, motorcyclists should be mindful of traffic around them and maneuver away from vehicles whose drivers seem distracted.
Dooring Accidents
While these accidents don’t often occur on the highway, dooring accidents are common on city streets and local state routes. When a driver parks their car alongside the road, they may be focused on what they plan to do next and not be aware that they’re opening their car door into the path of a motorcycle coming up behind them. This kind of crash can be devastating for the biker. When driving in areas where street-side parking is available, bikers should maintain a safe distance between themselves and the side of the street.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Roads in Virginia Beach may have potholes, debris, uneven surfaces, poor drainage, and illegible road markings, all of which can make a ride on a motorcycle hazardous. Motorcyclists should always be aware of their surroundings and check for any potential road hazards before taking off.
Virginia Motorcycle Accident Statistics
According to Virginia’s Department of Motor Vehicles, 1,682 motorcycle riders were injured in motorcycle crashes in Virginia in 2021. Of these injuries, the majority of those injured in motorcycle accidents were between the ages of 21 and 25. Unfortunately, 102 people were killed in motorcycle accidents in 2021, an 18 percent increase over 2020. In addition, motorcycle fatalities in Virginia have increased by 42 percent over the last five years.
Speak With a Virginia Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you suffered injuries in a Virginia Beach motorcycle accident caused by another driver, you need an experienced personal injury lawyer. At Deering Hedrick, we have handled numerous motorcycle accident cases in Virginia Beach and can help you pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 757-383-6848 to learn more about how we can help you.
