Motorcycles are the most dangerous vehicles to drive on the road, and Nevada is one of the top states for motorcycle accidents. When you’re riding a bike, you’re playing with risk across every turn and corner.
The most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Nevada include reckless driving behavior, dual use of motorcycle and passenger car, dangerous road conditions, and riding while fatigued or distracted. Stay with us as we look at these causes in greater detail.
Reckless Driving
Reckless driving is a common cause for driving assets in Nevada:
- Riding too fast: The most common cause of accidents on Nevada roads is speed. Speed limits are there for a reason and should be respected at all times, especially when riding in heavy traffic or on busy city streets where you have to maneuver around other cars.
- Riding with passengers: If you’re going to share your bike with another rider, both must wear helmets that meet the standards set by the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
- Riding while intoxicated: In Nevada, it is illegal for any driver or passenger operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol above 0.08 percent BAC levels. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol can lead to serious consequences if you cause an accident while operating a vehicle.
Dangerous Road Conditions
Dangerous road conditions are another common cause of motorcycle accidents in Nevada and across the nation. Dangerous weather conditions, including rain and wind, can cause vision problems for drivers—and those driving motorcycles may be more at risk than others because they have less room for error.
Additionally, road construction can create dangerous situations by forcing vehicles to merge onto a highway from an entrance ramp or exit ramp without warning.
Finally, poorly designed roads also put motorcyclists at risk. If you’re riding down an interstate highway at 70 miles per hour (mph) while navigating sharp curves or narrow lanes with limited visibility along the shoulder area of the road—well, let’s just say it doesn’t take much imagination here!
Riding While Fatigued
Riding while fatigued is one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Fatigue can occur by a variety of factors, including lack of sleep, lack of rest breaks, and not enough caffeine. If you find yourself becoming sleepy while driving your motorcycle, it’s time to pull over and take a nap.
You can also become distracted on the road if you don’t pay attention to what’s happening around you. Distractions may include talking to your passengers or texting while riding. It’s wise to avoid both activities while operating a motorbike because they could lead to poor decision-making on your part, which could cause an accident.
Riding at a Low Speed on Highway
In Nevada, it’s common to see riders riding at low speeds on open highways and other areas where there is little or no traffic. Riding alone can be dangerous in these situations because if you’re involved in an accident, you’ll have little help from others who may be able to assist you until emergency services arrive. Riding with a group of riders also increases your risk of being involved in an accident due to the number of motorcycles occupying the same space at once.
The best way to avoid danger while riding is by avoiding riding during inclement weather conditions such as rainstorms and foggy nights. If you must ride when visibility is poor or it’s raining hard outside, consider using rain gear and windshield wipers on your motorcycle helmet so that you can see without being distracted by raindrops blocking your vision or water running into your eyes from above (if applicable).
Motorcycle riding is a fun, exciting and enjoyable pastime. However, it can also bring safety challenges that other modes of transportation don’t have to deal with.
You should contact the knowledgeable accident lawyers at the Bourassa Law Group as soon as possible after a Nevada motorcycle accident. They can help you establish the other party’s responsibility for the damages. Call us at (800)870-8910 for a free consultation!
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