Why Do Motorcycle Riders Move Around in Their Lane So Much?

Many drivers see motorcyclists as reckless and dangerous groups on the road. While it is true that motorcycle riders are more likely to get into crashes and suffer serious injuries than passengers in cars, this does not mean that they are inherently careless—it usually means they are more likely to be more careful, instead!

The negligence of other drivers causes a significant portion of motorcycle accidents. Understanding motorcyclists’ road behavior can help make everyone safer on the road.

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact the attorneys at Dudley DeBosier to review your case and help you seek compensation.

Why Riders Move Around in Their Lane

Motorcycle riders often have to be more cautious than other motorists since they are less visible and more vulnerable to being hit by other vehicles. One of the best ways for motorcycle riders to stay safe is to move around in their lane.

By constantly changing positions within the lane, motorcycle riders increase their visibility and make it more difficult for other drivers to “tune them out.” This technique can be especially useful when riding in traffic because it allows the rider to see and be seen by other vehicles more easily.

While it may not be the most comfortable way to ride, frequently moving around within the lane is one of the best ways for motorcycle riders to stay safe on the road. It is also their right. Although motorcycles are smaller vehicles, riders have a right to use the entire lane in which they are traveling.

Understanding Riders’ Behavior

Motorcycle riders must often take evasive action to avoid being hit by another vehicle. These maneuvers include swerving and lane-splitting. While these actions may appear dangerous, they swiftly move the motorcyclist out of the way of other cars, preventing a collision.

Riders may also need to swerve to avoid hazards on the road like potholes or slick patches that a larger vehicle’s driver may not notice or be concerned about. As a result, all road users need to be aware of motorcycle riders and give them plenty of space so they can safely move around and out of the way of road hazards.

Types of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes can either be multi-vehicle crashes (involving the motorcycle and one or more other vehicles) and a single vehicle crash, although other people or parties can still be at fault for single vehicle crashes, depending on how they occurred.

Collision with vehicle

One common type of motorcycle accident is a collision with another vehicle. This can occur when a driver fails to see a motorcycle and makes a turn into its path or when a driver rear-ends a stopped motorcycle. A collision can also happen when another vehicle doesn’t allow the rider the entire lane width and merges too closely with them.

Collisions from a loss of control

Another common type of motorcycle accident is a single-vehicle crash. This can occur when riders lose control of their motorcycle, especially after encountering road hazards like potholes, debris in the road, or loose gravel or sand on the road. If debris fell into the road from another vehicle, the driver of that vehicle may be liable. Likewise, it’s possible the agency responsible for maintaining the road could be liable if the poor condition of the road caused the rider to lose control.

Motorcycle crashes can stem from mechanical problems, such as a flat tire or faulty brakes. Manufacturers may be liable if the crash was caused by a defective part rather than neglected maintenance.

Crashes can also happen if an unexpected event startles a driver, such as a pedestrian stepping out in front of the motorcycle’s path or an animal running onto the road.

If it is unclear who is liable for a crash, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney could help determine the liable party.

Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents

While motorcyclists do everything they can to avoid road debris, potholes, and irresponsible drivers, crashes and falls still occur. In 2020, 5,579 riders died in motorcycle crashes in the U.S., with 1,568 crashes and 81 deaths in Louisiana alone.

Injuries motorcycle riders can suffer include:

Road rash

Road rash is a type of injury that typically occurs when a person falls off a motorcycle or the bike slides across the pavement. The asphalt and concrete scrape the superficial layer of skin away, exposing the underlying tissue. Road rash can range in severity from mild to severe, depending on the depth of the abrasion and the amount of debris embedded in the wound.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

Traumatic brain injury is a type of brain damage that occurs due to a blow to the head. TBI can range from mild (this is commonly known as a concussion) to moderate or severe. TBI symptoms can vary depending on the severity. Mild TBI may cause temporary dysfunction of brain functions. More serious TBI can result in bruising, tearing of brain tissues, brain hemorrhaging, and long-term damage to the brain.

Motorcycle accident victims can suffer a variety of other injuries in crashes, including broken bones, internal hemorrhaging, and even paralysis.

Seek Help from a Knowledgeable Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you or someone you love is a motorcyclist who’s suffered injuries in an accident with a negligent driver in Louisiana, contact the Baton Rouge motorcycle injury lawyers at Dudley DeBosier. We will help you hold the responsible party accountable for your pain and suffering and pursue fair compensation for your injuries.

Call our law firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation to learn your legal options.

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