What are the most common causes of fatal motorcycle accidents?

If you are getting ready to get on a motorcycle and take a ride in California, it is important to know what the most common causes of motorcycle accidents are so you can be prepared. The Insurance Information Institute explains what the accidents of 2015 show for motorcyclists.

First, speeding was a factor in 33 percent of all fatal motorcycle crashes. This was the most common cause of an accident and should be strictly avoided, but there were also other factors that contributed heavily to fatalities. Alcohol use was number two, with 27 percent of fatal motorcycle crashes involving riders whose blood alcohol concentration was over the legal limit. If you are riding at night, you need to be extra cautious since 42 percent of motorcycle riders killed at night are reportedly intoxicated.

The type of motorcycle you are riding can also play a role in your chances of being involved in a fatal accident. A certain type of bike called a “super sports” motorcycle is modified for street use but built for racing and can climb to speeds of 190 mph. The biggest factors in fatal accidents involving these motorcycles is driver error and speed. Drivers of these motorcycles were almost four times more likely to be killed in an accident than other motorcyclists and are also generally the youngest age group of drivers.

Another factor related to fatal motorcycle accidents was licensing. Motorcyclists lacked proper licensing in 27 percent of fatal motorcycle crashes. This is another point to consider before you ride any two-wheeled vehicles. This information is intended to educate and should not be taken as legal advice.