Ten Most Likely Causes of Tennessee Motorcycle Accidents

By Thomas Greer | January 26, 2015

Motorcycle riding can be a lot of fun, but everyone knows that the risk of having an accident is greater on a bike than in a passenger or larger vehicle. So, what are the main causes of Tennessee motorcycle accidents? Here are ten of the most likely:

  1. Other Drivers. Because the motorcycle is so much smaller than passenger cars and trucks, visibility is always a problem. Other drivers simply do not see motorcycles as easily as other vehicles. The most common mishap occurs when a car turns in front of a motorcycle.
  2. Age of motorcyclist. Over 50% of motorcyclists killed in 2010 were over the age of 40. In contrast, the number of deaths of age 30 and younger riders fell from 35% in 2000 to 27% in 2009.
  3. Sex of motorcyclist. Approximately 96% of all riders are male, therefore, men are much more likely to be the victims of motorcycle accidents.
  4. Level of experience of motorcyclist. Over 50% of accidents happen to riders with less than five months of experience. Around 90% of accident victims are self or family taught. As of August 2011, Tennessee law mandates a lower insurance rate to riders who complete a motorcycle-training course.
  5. Use of alcohol while riding. In 2009, 7% of all motorcycle fatalities involved a blood alcohol content from 0.01 to 0.07 percent, with 30% over 0.08.
  6. Licensing problems. Motorcycle accidents often happen to those either without a license or with a suspended license. About 22% of all riders involved in fatal accidents had no valid license, compared to 12% of passenger car driver fatalities.
  7. Speed.In 2009, 35% of motorcycle deaths occurred as a result of exceeding the speed limit, with supersport bikes leading the pack in fatalities.
  8. Lack of skill in avoiding an accident. The average rider has just about two seconds to react to a situation. Over-braking and under-braking are common mistakes, along with deficient skill in swerving.
  9. Poor maintenance or defective equipment. Bad tires, inoperative turn signals, bad brakes and/or brake lights, and fuel line and wiring problems can lead to accidents.
  10. Weatherand road conditions. While not a main cause of motorcycle accidents, bad weather may contribute to about 10% of crashes. However, it is important to be very careful when driving in inclement weather. Also, beware poorly maintained roads and debris from road construction projects, which can cause mishaps.

If you have been injured in a Tennessee motorcycle accident that was caused by someone else, you should contact a Memphis motorcycle crash lawyer to explore your options. At Bailey & Greer, we offer the caring and experience you need to be successful. Call us today at 901-680-9777 for a free consultation.

Posted in Library, Motorcycle Accidents