What Causes Most Motorcycle Crashes in the State?
Thousands of people are injured or killed in motorcycle accidents in Tennessee each year. The fact is that motorcyclists are some of the most vulnerable drivers on the road. With nothing to protect them from severe injury, even a minor collision can have major repercussions. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you need to speak with an attorney with experience handling motorcycle accident cases.
At Aubrey Givens & Associates, PLLC, we have represented numerous motorcycle accident victims in Nashville and the surrounding areas. We fight hard to ensure our clients receive the compensation they deserve. Our lawyers will not rest until you receive justice in your case. If you were injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash, contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
1. Speeding
According to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, there were 32 fatal motorcycle accidents where speeding was a factor in 2021. That same year, there were 146 motorcycle injury crashes where speeding contributed to the accident. It is estimated that around 1 out of every 4 motorcycle accidents where speeding was a contributing factor results in a serious injury.
2. Driving While Impaired
Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is another common cause of motorcycle accidents. As reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle operators who were involved in fatal accidents were more likely to be impaired compared to drivers of other vehicles. Research shows that 27% of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were impaired by alcohol.
3. Failure to Yield
Motorcycle deaths are up this year in Tennessee, as noted by WKRN News 2. Their reporting indicates that as of September 2023, there had already been 160 motorcycle accident fatalities in the state. This is compared to 130 people in all of 2022. One of the leading reasons for these accidents comes down to a failure to yield the right of way. Far too often, other drivers either aren’t looking for or don’t see motorcyclists resulting in catastrophic collisions.
4. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is a reality for all drivers. With a drastic increase in the number of things that take our attention away from the road, it is unsurprising that we have seen an increase in the number of accidents related to this problem. Unfortunately, motorcyclists who are hit by a distracted driver can suffer severe injury or even death despite being hit at a low speed. Without the protection of a vehicle, a minor fender bender can have a devastating impact on a motorcyclist rear-ended by a distracted driver.
5. Following Too Closely
Following too closely is another common reason motorcyclists are injured or killed in traffic accidents. When a motorist tailgates a motorcycle, it can lead to severe harm. It takes longer for a passenger car to stop compared to a motorcycle. Following a vehicle too closely can cause a sudden stop to turn into a fatal rear-end collision.
Contact Our Office to Schedule a Free Consultation
Were you injured in a motorcycle accident in Tennessee? Contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Our lawyers will help you determine the best course of legal action based on the circumstances of your case.
