Most Common Cause Of Motorcycle Accidents Uk
Motorcycles are becoming increasingly popular in the UK, with more than one million motorcycles on the road. Unfortunately, due to their small size and high speed, motorcycles are more vulnerable to accidents than any other vehicle. According to the latest statistics, there were 19,297 motorcycle accidents in the UK in 2019 alone, resulting in 336 deaths and 4,426 serious injuries.
Speeding
Speeding is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in the UK. Motorcyclists are often tempted to exceed the speed limit due to the thrill of riding a motorcycle. However, this can result in a loss of control, especially on corners or in wet weather conditions. According to the Department for Transport, speeding was a factor in 33% of all fatal motorcycle accidents in 2019.
Motorcycle Maintenance
Motorcycle maintenance is crucial for the safety of the rider. It is important to regularly check the brakes, tires, and other essential components of the motorcycle. Failure to maintain the motorcycle can result in accidents due to mechanical failure. According to the latest statistics, motorcycle defects were a factor in 2% of all motorcycle accidents in the UK in 2019.
Other Road Users
Other road users, such as cars and trucks, pose a significant risk to motorcyclists. Drivers may not see motorcyclists due to their small size, resulting in collisions. Drivers may also misjudge the speed of a motorcycle, leading to accidents. According to the Department for Transport, 29% of all motorcycle accidents in the UK in 2019 were caused by another road user failing to look properly.
Weather Conditions
Weather conditions, such as rain, snow, and ice, can make roads slippery and reduce visibility. Motorcyclists need to adjust their driving to suit the weather conditions. Failure to do so can result in accidents due to a loss of control. According to the Department for Transport, 4% of all motorcycle accidents in the UK in 2019 were caused by weather conditions.
Inexperienced Riders
Inexperienced riders are more likely to have accidents than experienced riders. Novice riders may not have the necessary skills to handle a motorcycle in different situations, such as braking or cornering. According to the latest statistics, 35% of all motorcycle accidents in the UK in 2019 involved riders with less than one year of experience.
Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences for the rider and their family. It is important for motorcyclists to be aware of the common causes of accidents and take steps to avoid them. This includes riding at a safe speed, maintaining the motorcycle, being aware of other road users, adjusting driving to suit weather conditions, and gaining experience before riding in challenging situations. By following these tips, motorcyclists can reduce the risk of accidents and enjoy the thrill of riding a motorcycle safely.