What Hazards Might a Motorcyclist Encounter?

Driving a motorcycle brings a sense of freedom and adventure. However, motorcyclists can encounter many dangers while on the road, all of which could increase the odds of a collision. What hazards might a motorcyclist encounter? 

Rough roads, wet surfaces, wildlife, and railroad crossings represent examples of hazards encountered by motorcyclists. A Summerville motorcycle accident lawyer from our team at the Thumbs Up Guys can explain all hazards in more detail. 

You can contact us by calling or completing our online contact form.

Rough Roads Are a Hazard for Motorcyclists 

Rough roads represent one of the biggest hazards for motorcyclists. Issues with roads often arise from resurfacing efforts, disrepair, and current road work. Even minor inconsistencies in the road surface can make it harder to control a motorcycle, increasing the odds of an accident. 

Wet Surfaces Make it Harder to Drive Safe

Slippery roads pose a challenge to motorcyclists, especially because motorcyclists are relatively light compared to other vehicles and more likely to slide. Most motorcyclists stay off the roads when it rains, but those who venture out can end up in significant collisions. 

In fact, 2% of all fatal motorcycle accidents in 2021 occurred in rainy conditions, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). 

Railway Crossings and Motorcycle Safety

Many people don’t consider railroad crossings when asking, “What hazards might a motorcyclist encounter?” However, these crossings can represent a major hazard. These tracks often become very wet and motorcycle tires can even get stuck in the tracks. 

Some riders get thrown over their handlebars if they try to cross tracks too quickly or at the wrong angle. 

Motorcycle Hazards Caused by Wildlife

Animals on the road pose a huge risk to motorcyclists’ health and safety. Hitting even a small animal while operating a motorcycle can cause a major accident, and swinging to try to avoid an animal may make the situation worse. 

Motorcyclists should stay aware when driving through areas known for animals around the road. Driving slower and monitoring conditions may help bikers avoid this hazard. 

Gravel Can Cause Motorcycle Accidents

Gravel on roads makes it more challenging for motorcyclists to control their vehicles, especially on winding roads or when a motorcyclist engages in cornering. Driving more slowly can help you avoid accidents caused by small rocks on the road. 

Edge Breaks and Motorcycling Hazards

We use the term “edge break” to refer to situations where some lanes on the road are higher or lower than others. Trying to change lanes on these roads can cause motorcyclists to lose control, often resulting in an accident. 

The professionals recommend approaching edge breaks slowly to reduce the odds of an accident. 

Bridge Joints and Expansion Joints Can Cause Accidents

Sometimes, road designers include joints in the road or bridges to allow for the expansion of concrete due to temperature and other external pressures. These joints sometimes leave gaps in the road that pose an issue for motorcyclists. 

A motorcycle’s wheel may get caught in one of the gaps caused by the joint, resulting in an accident. You can try to avoid joints or approach them at a lower speed to reduce the chances of a collision. 

What Should You Do if a Motorcycle Hazard Causes an Accident?

What should you do after a motorcycle accident? You should take a few steps if you end up in a motorcycle accident due to a hazard encountered on the road. In general, the professionals recommend that you:

• Notify the police about the accident 
• Seek medical care for any injuries you sustained 
• Take pictures of your injuries, the damage to your motorcycle, and the hazard that caused the crash
• Get contact information from any eyewitnesses 
• Report your accident to your insurance company 

You should also contact a personal injury lawyer for fast help building a claim and reviewing your legal options. If another party’s negligence caused the crash, you may have a chance to secure fair compensation for your losses. 

Our team at Miller, Dawson, Sigal & Ward knows how to prove fault after a motorcycle accident and can guide you through the process of resolving your claim. 

What Compensation Can You Get After a Motorcycle Accident?

The hazards a motorcyclist might encounter on the road could cause a collision. In this situation, you may qualify for funds to cover all the financial costs of the crash. Depending on your situation, a lawyer may bring you funds for your:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost pay
• Motorcycle repairs 
• Pain and emotional suffering

Our team can review the losses you sustained and assist after a collision. 

Discuss Hazards a Motorcyclist Might Encounter Today

What hazards might a motorcyclist encounter in South Carolina? Railroad tracks, gravel, wet roads, wildlife, and rough roads all represent dangers faced by bikers. A motorcycle accident lawyer from the Thumbs Up Guys can help if one of these hazards causes you to crash.

We’re ready to review your situation when you call or complete our online contact form.