Motorcycle accidents can occur in San Luis Obispo County for many different reasons, some of which happen more frequently than others. When drivers fail to see motorcycles in their path, make unsafe turns, drive distracted, speed, or make dangerous lane changes, they can put motorcyclists at risk of injury.

Because motorcycles provide less physical protection to riders than passenger vehicles provide to drivers and passengers, serious injuries can result from even low-speed crashes. By understanding some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents, riders and drivers can recognize dangerous situations and prevent crashes before they occur.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in California

1. Drivers Who Fail to See Motorcycles
Motorcycles have a much smaller profile than cars and trucks, which means they can be more difficult to see. A driver may look both ways before turning or changing lanes without noticing an approaching motorcycle. Motorists should always check mirrors and blind spots before turning or changing lanes.

2. Unsafe Left Turns
A vehicle making a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle may cause a catastrophic collision. The driver may misjudge the speed of an approaching motorcycle or may not see the rider at all.

3. Distracted Driving
Activities like texting or reading GPS directions, adjusting the navigation system or music, eating, or simply daydreaming can distract a driver from noticing a motorcyclist until it’s too late.

4. Speeding
Speeding motorists reduce the time they and others have to react to changing road conditions. Additionally, higher speeds can result in more severe injuries during a crash.

5. Unsafe Lane Changes
When drivers change lanes without checking their blind spots, they may cut off a motorcyclist. The driver may inadvertently sideswipe the motorcycle or force the rider into oncoming traffic. All California drivers should take care to look for motorcycles before changing lanes.

6. Following Too Closely
Motorcycles can stop more quickly than cars. Following too closely significantly reduces a driver’s ability to avoid rear-ending a motorcycle.

7. Impaired Driving
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs judgment, reaction time, and awareness. Drunk drivers can pose a threat to everyone on the road, but especially motorcyclists, who may be harder for impaired drivers to see.

8. Dangerous Intersections
Turning vehicles, changing traffic lights, and drivers failing to yield can lead to accidents at intersections. Motorcyclists should exercise extra caution when approaching intersections.

9. Road Hazards
Road hazards like potholes, gravel, debris, oil, uneven pavement, or poorly marked lanes may pose a greater threat to motorcycles than to cars. Something that slows down or bumps a car may cause a motorcycle to wreck.

10. Lane-Splitting Accidents
Lane-splitting, or splitting traffic, is legal in California. However, motorcycles can be put at risk when motorists don’t see them changing lanes or suddenly opening a car door. Motorists should always check their blind spots before changing lanes and look out for motorcycles before opening their doors.

Who Is Liable for Motorcycle Accidents in California?

Who is liable for causing a motorcycle accident? Often, liability depends on the circumstances that led to the crash. A driver may be negligent and thus liable if speeding, driving distracted, making an unsafe turn, or engaging in another careless act causes a motorcycle wreck.

However, more than one party can be liable in some accidents.

Police reports, witness statements, photographs of the scene, traffic camera or surveillance video, vehicle damage, and medical records can provide important evidence in determining what happened in an accident and who may be liable.

Were You Injured in a Motorcycle Accident in San Luis Obispo County?

Motorcycle accident injuries can lead to high medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other serious consequences. If another person caused your accident through negligence, you may be able to recover compensation from that person.

An attorney in San Luis Obispo who handles motorcycle accidents can investigate your crash and preserve key evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and help you understand what compensation you may be entitled to under California law. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal rights.