While navigating slippery and gravelly roads is rarely a problem for cars and other automobiles, maneuvering around unexpected terrain can be life-threatening for motorcycles. A lack of metal encasement to protect motorcyclists from impact makes a collision, or even a fender bender, potentially fatal. Even the smallest roadside hazards can mean the difference between passing through safely and sustaining serious injury, making it imperative for motorcyclists to be alert of their surroundings at all times.
Sometimes, a condition that would not normally be thought of as obstruction can be dangerous for an inexperienced motorcycle rider. For example, light rain or bunched-up leaves can turn the road into a slick surface that would make sliding very likely for the small, lightweight nature of a motorcycle as compared to an automobile. Operating a motorcycle safely around adverse road conditions requires a large amount of awareness. A momentary lapse in attention when an unanticipated obstruction is encountered can mean serious injury.
Common Road Hazards for Motorcyclists
There are certain hazardous factors that are different for motorcycles and automobiles. The presence of debris, uneven surface levels, elements of nature, and rough roads can spell trouble for a motorcyclist who is not aware of the best way to proceed. Common road hazards include:
- Rough and bumpy roads
- Debris from construction work or fallen parts of a car
- Debris from nature (branches, rocks, acorns, etc)
- Gravel on pavement
- Animals on the road
- Slick surfaces from rain, oil, leaves, or fresh paint
- Puddles of water
- Snow and ice
- Railroad tracks and crossings
- Edge breaks (when traffic lanes are different heights)
- Expansion joints
The risk when encountering a road hazard is significantly less when a motorcyclist knows about the potential hazards they face and can plan accordingly how to avoid them. Some precautionary measures may include constantly surveying the area, planning safe escape routes in the event of an emergency, and being constantly vigilant of surrounding traffic.
Contact a Boston Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Although many motorcycle accidents occur because of bad weather and road defects, a substantial number are caused by the negligence of other drivers. If you or someone you know was the victim of a motorcycle accident caused by the reckless actions of another person, contact Crowe & Harris, LLP at (617) 404-3417 to speak with a proficient member of our legal team.