While motorcycle accidents in the UK fortunately seem to be decreasing, they are still a very common occurrence. In 2023, there were 5,481 serious injuries caused by motorcycle accidents and 315 fatalities.
Motorcyclists are still more likely to be in a road accident than car occupants. In fact, the risk is believed to be 25 to 40 times greater.
What can motorcyclists do to protect themselves? This article takes a look at some of the common causes of accidents and how to prevent them.
What are some of the biggest causes of motorcycle accidents?
92% of motorcycle casualties are male. The majority involve riders on sports bikes and super sports bikes.
Stats show that 66% of motorcycle fatalities occur on rural roads. Intersections are the most common places for these fatalities to occur – caused either by motorcyclists pulling out in front of drivers, or drivers pulling out in front of motorcyclists.
Travelling too fast is thought to be a contributing factor in many motorcycle accidents. Speeding at night or in poor weather conditions can put you at particularly high risk.
What can you do if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident?
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, it is recommended that you seek medical attention as soon as you can. Even if you think you’ve just got a sprain, it can be worth getting yourself checked in case it turns out to be something more serious.
Head injuries are the most fatal injuries a motorcyclist can experience during an accident. Wearing a helmet offers a lot of protection, but is not always enough. Many riders experience concussion following an accident. It is recommended that you get a medical check-up immediately if your head hurts or you’re feeling disorientated after a motorcycle accident – just to check no serious damage has been caused.
Been involved in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault? Motorbike accident compensation could be worth pursuing in this situation. You can file a lawsuit against a driver with the help of a motorcycle accident lawyer.
How can you protect yourself against motorcycle accidents?
Given that most motorcycle accidents occur at high speeds, slowing down is generally the safest thing you can do to protect yourself on a motorcycle. Stick to the speed limit and consider taking unfamiliar roads a little slower.
You should be particularly careful when riding at night or in bad weather conditions. It’s often best to avoid riding in heavy rain, high winds or icy conditions if you can help it. Plan your journeys ahead and check weather reports to see whether it’s worth taking the bike. Make sure that you have a good quality visor and also regularly check the condition of your tyres.
A simple but important rule to avoid accidents is to be observant. Always look twice before pulling out of an intersection. Meanwhile, take caution at junctions and roundabouts – always be on alert for drivers who might pull out in front of you, especially those who seem to be creeping forward without stopping.