Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, and it’s often negligence exhibited by both the motorcyclist and other parties that lead to these accidents. By making yourself aware of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes, you can hopefully identify the situations where a wreck can occur.

1. Left-hand turns: Drivers need to take the extra time to check their blind spot before making a left turn. All too often, drivers hit motorcyclists when crossing an intersection or going around another car.
2. Motorcycle lane splitting: Lane splitting is legal in California, but passing through the small space between cars can be dangerous. When drivers are unsuspecting, they may start changing lanes without realizing their close proximity to a motorcycle. Additionally, parked drivers may often open their doors, hitting a motorcyclist who may be riding close to their car.
3. Speeding: A motor vehicle driver who is speeding is unable to respond to unexpected events in time to avoid a collision. By minding your speed, you can ensure ample reaction times on the road.
4. Driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol: Drugs and alcohol slow reaction times, reduce visibility and incite risky behaviors. Not only is it risky, but those who choose to take to the road under the influence can be given serious jail time and fees. It should also be noted that prescription medicines can severely impact one’s coordination and reaction times, so you should check with a doctor before driving after taking a prescription medication.
5. Collisions with fixed objects: Motorcyclists are also in danger if they collide with fixed and discernible objects. While drivers can also be seriously injured or killed if they crash into objects, motorcyclists have much less protection around them, making their accidents more severe. Collision with fixed objects accounts for 25% of motorcyclist deaths.
6. Road hazards: As a motorcyclist, road hazards such as potholes, wet pavements, uneven roads and dead animals can knock your bike off balance because your bike is too small to absorb the shock created by running over obstacles.

A Guide to Lane Splitting 
Lane splitting, also referred to as stripe riding, is a popular maneuver performed by bikers when they ride between two lanes of cars going the same direction. Instead of being stuck in California’s seemingly endless stop-and-go traffic, lane splitting allows motorcyclists to get to their destination much faster.

Since rear-ending accidents are so common in bumper-to-bumper traffic, many argue that lane-splitting is safer than the traditional method of riding within a lane. However, motorcyclists should keep in mind that riding between cars gives them, at most, three feet to maneuver their motorcycle. Because of this, they should stay very vigilant if they choose to lane split.

How Much Is My Motorcycle Accident Injury Claim Worth?
When you’re involved in a car accident, it not only puts your health at risk, but your bike is also likely to be in disrepair. In the days after the crash, you will be thinking about all the ways the accident has set you back financially. You may even be worried if your insurance policy is enough to cover all your medical bills. At Okhovat Law Firm, we can provide you with a full case evaluation during your consultation to determine how much your injury claim is worth. It gives us a better idea of how we might be able to help you and ease your mind while you focus on recovery.