Although motorcycles are a great mode of transportation, motorcycle accidents can happen at any time to even the most skilled drivers.
The freedom and exhilaration that comes from riding motorcycles make them quite popular to own. Once a person owns a motorcycle, the responsibility of driving safely falls onto them. New owners need to understand how they can be safe on the road. Recognizing when most motorcycle collisions happen is a big step toward practicing safe motorcycle driving habits. This could save your life or the life of a loved one.
The Most Dangerous Time
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the hours of 3-9 pm are deadliest to motorcyclists. In 2017, 25% of all motorcycle accidents involving an injury happened in that 6-hour time frame. NHTSA also collected data showing that in 2017, 42% of all motorcycle fatalities happened during this time.
3-9 pm is the most dangerous time to be riding a motorcycle, with Saturdays and Sundays being the most hazardous. In 2015, the NHSTA found that 2,400 accidents happened during one weekend, and 2,556 accidents happened during the week prior. You should be especially careful while driving your motorcycle during the 3-9 pm time frame on the weekend.
Causes
There are many reasons behind motorcycle collisions. Most of the time, they can be chalked up to unsafe and inattentive driving. Speeding, impaired or drowsy driving, abrupt lane changes, and unsafe left turns are all major causes of these accidents. Attentive driving is vital for all individuals sharing the road. Please be aware of the other vehicles in the area, the traffic laws, and your current mental/physical ability to drive.
Rush Hour Traffic
One of the main reasons that these accidents happen during the 3-9 pm time frame is rush hour traffic. Many people get off work and are simultaneously heading home making it one of the busiest times of day. Having so many people attempting to share the road can cause traffic jams, road rage, and distracted driving. Drivers are more likely to make poor decisions that can potentially become hazardous to motorcyclists.
Visibility
Visibility can be severely impaired during these six dangerous hours of driving. Having so many cars on the road all at once can make it difficult to see far ahead. In addition, the rush hour time frame usually coincides with the setting sun. This can blind motorists, affecting their visibility, thus resulting in poor decision making. One recommendation for motorcyclists is to wear a bright colored jacket while operating the motorcycle. This can help other motorists notice you, even if the sun is impairing their vision.
What to Do If You Are Involved in an Accident
Even the most safe and skilled drivers may find themselves in an accident. Make sure to exchange information with the other driver, call the police, take pictures of any damages, and alert your insurance company. You may also want to work with an attorney for a variety of reasons after your accident.
Flickinger • Boulton • Robson • Weeks is Here for You
Motorcycle accidents can unfortunately occur at any time of day. If you find yourself in this situation, reach out to our experienced attorneys to review the best course of action. We can help you obtain your rightful compensation for any damages.
We have offices in Utah County and South Jordan. Contact us to schedule your free case evaluation today.