Motorcycle accidents are a common problem in Philadelphia. It is not uncommon for riders to want to take to the road to explore the city’s (and region’s) roadways. Yet, going for a ride can be dangerous and a Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer from Kwartler Manus can be of assistance if you suffer an injury.
The 2023 Pennsylvania Crash Facts and Statistics report showed that, in 2023, 238 people died on motorcycles, and another 3186 people suffered significant injuries. There are a few factors that make Philadelphia motorcycle accidents common, but there are also numerous factors that are unique to the region. Consider the following.
1. Weather
Weather conditions in Philadelphia can be challenging much of the year. From the slick rain of spring to the intense storms in summer and fall and ice in the winter months, road conditions are often dangerous. Motorcycle riders operating in less-than-ideal conditions face significant risks.
2. Distracted Drivers
The other drivers on the road with motorcyclists could be one of the biggest factors contributing to injury and loss. Text messaging, even though it is illegal behind the wheel, remains a common reason why drivers are not paying attention to roadways. Other distractions include emotional conversations behind the wheel or pets not secured.
3. Construction
Philadelphia seems to always have a major road construction project happening. The construction itself does not increase risk to the motorcyclist, but rather the lack of knowing where to go. Commonly, these projects create uncertainty for other drivers, and that often means those drivers are making last-minute lane changes or speeding through dangerously tight areas. This often comes at the expense of the motorcycle rider they did not see.
Also notable is road construction creates debris, which can create instability on roadways. Loss of gravel or uneven surfaces are commonly associated with crashes. Failure to maintain safe roadways could be the fault of the construction company or the city in some cases.
4. Aggressive Drivers
When other drivers share the road with a motorcycle, many do not treat that rider with the same expectations or respect as another passenger vehicle operator. Some common indications of this include:
- Following too closely behind a motorcycle (even striking them)
- Changing lanes very close to a motorcycle rider
- Brake checking the motorcyclist
- Cutting the motorcycle rider off
- Blocking the rider from merging or having the right of way
Any type of aggressive operation of a vehicle is highly dangerous. When a car uses these aggressive maneuvers on a motorcycle, the risk of serious injury and losses is much higher.
5. Driver Mistakes
Whether it is a distraction or a lack of knowledge, another common reason motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia happen so commonly is due to the passenger vehicle’s driver making grave mistakes. Some of the most common include:
- Left-hand crashes: It is very common for motorcycle accidents to happen when drivers are making a left-hand turn. Many of the roadways in Philadelphia have clearly marked lanes and lighting, but if, for any reason, the driver fails to see the motorcycle, a turn at the wrong time can be deadly.
- Unsafe lane changes: Drivers on some of the city’s streets are aggressive and fast-moving, which often leads to lane changes that are less than safe. If drivers do not check carefully before changing lanes, they could hit motorcyclists.
- Rear endings: Failing to see the motorcycle in front of them or gauge the proximity of stopping behind a rider is another common mistake drivers make that puts motorcyclists at risk. When a motorcycle rider is hit from behind, the risk of fatalities or significant injury is high.
6. Road Conditions
Cold weather throughout the state creates a high risk for potholes and uneven areas of pavement. In Philadelphia, where the temperature fluctuates from freezing to just above freezing often, there is a high risk of ice forming in small cracks, increasing the risk of larger cracks and potholes. These are very dangerous to motorcycle riders.
7. Speeding
Drivers and riders speeding along the roadways is a common problem in Philadelphia. As densely packed as the streets and highways are, this creates a significant risk factor for injuries when accidents happen.
Speeding is particularly dangerous to motorcycle riders because:
- Motorcyclists are much more challenging to see
- Motorcycle riders have no protection from the impact with the vehicle
- Riders are more likely to be thrown from their bike when struck by a speeding car
While speeding is dangerous to all motor vehicle operators, it is particularly worrisome to those on a motorcycle.
What to Do If You Are Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident
No matter what causes an accident, your first step should always be to call 911 and follow medical orders. Then, contact our motorcycle accident attorney at Kwartler Manus. Let our attorneys provide you with guidance on determining what happened and who is responsible for the injuries and losses you have. Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Philadelphia will fight for fair compensation for any losses you have. Contact us for a free consultation.