With nearly 34,000 miles of open highway and almost 185,000 registered motorcycles, Missouri remains one of the most popular destinations for motorcyclists – and also one of the most dangerous. Despite an increase in safe driving initiatives , motorcyclists continue to represent a large portion of reported motorcycle accidents and fatalities across the state.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Missouri?
There are a wide range of factors that contribute to motorcycle accident rates across Missouri. It’s a common misconception that motorcyclists are typically the party at fault, when in fact other drivers cause the most accidents. No matter who is at fault, these are some of the most common causes for reported accidents across Missouri.
Speeding
Traveling at high speeds is among the most common causes of all traffic accidents, but it’s especially dangerous for those on motorcycles. Speeding not only reduces your reaction time; it also greatly increases your chances of losing control of the bike. Other drivers’ speed is also a factor that impacts the severity of injuries caused by an accident.
Distracted Driving
It’s no secret that distractions such as cell phones, eating or drinking, and adjusting the radio are becoming an increasing problem among drivers across the country. All it takes is a split second for an accident to occur, especially when combined with other factors like speeding. Both motorcycle riders and drivers alike are impacted by distracted driving in Missouri, so be sure to keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions whenever possible.
Inexperience/Lack of Training
The only way to become a skilled and confident motorcycle rider is through experience, and unfortunately, the lack of a rider’s experience can sometimes lead to an accident. Motorcyclists may avoid some common mistakes by taking safety courses, wearing necessary safety gear, and practicing motorcycle handling skills in a safe area at lower speeds.
Failure to Follow Traffic Laws
Improper lane changes, impaired riding or driving, and failure to yield all cause motorcycle accidents in Missouri, and it’s not just the motorcyclists who are at fault. When drivers aren’t accustomed to looking out for motorcycles on the road, they often get too relaxed on the road and fail to follow all state traffic laws. While that may not be a problem for other cars on the road, it can lead to disastrous consequences for those on motorcycles.
What to Do if You’re Involved in a Missouri Motorcycle Accident
Although there are several safety measures that motorcycle riders can take to keep themselves safe, some accidents are unavoidable. If you’re the victim of a motorcycle accident in Missouri, the first things you should do include:
- Seeking medical attention
- Exchanging contact information with everyone involved
- Documenting evidence
- Contacting a motorcycle accident attorney
It’s essential that you understand your rights after being the victim of a motorcycle accident, and a skilled Missouri motorcycle accident lawyer can explain all of your options and help you on your path to healing. At Dreyer & Tinney, we have a deep knowledge of state and federal motorcycle accident laws that we use to help our clients seek the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and case evaluation with a member of our Joplin-based law team.