Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Delaware
Motorcyclists in Delaware enjoy scenic roads, especially along the coast and rural highways. But despite their freedom on two wheels, riders face serious risks on the road.
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to the lack of physical protection. Understanding the most common causes of Delaware motorcycle accident crashes can help riders stay alert and help victims understand their rights after a crash. Don’t wait to get the help you need; secure the experienced legal representation we provide at Edelstein Martin & Nelson and take the first step toward justice today.
Driver Inattention and Distracted Driving
One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in Delaware is distracted driving. Many drivers fail to notice motorcycles because they are smaller and less visible than other vehicles. When a driver is texting, adjusting the radio, or checking GPS, even a brief moment of inattention can lead to disaster.
Common forms of driver distraction include:
- Texting or talking on the phone
- Eating, grooming, or adjusting controls
- Engaging with passengers or pets
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable in these situations, often getting sideswiped or rear-ended because the driver simply wasn’t paying attention.
Left-Turn Collisions
Left-turn accidents are another frequent type of Delaware motorcycle accident crash. These collisions typically happen when a car turns left at an intersection and fails to yield to an oncoming motorcycle. In many cases, the driver may misjudge the motorcyclist’s speed or simply not see them at all.
This type of accident can be devastating, especially when it occurs at higher speeds or in intersections without clear signals. Riders often have little time to react, and the impact is typically direct and forceful.
Speeding and Aggressive Driving
Speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react to unexpected road conditions or obstacles, something that becomes even more dangerous when motorcyclists are nearby. Tailgating, weaving between lanes, and failing to yield are also forms of aggressive driving that frequently cause crashes involving motorcycles.
Because motorcycles can stop more quickly and maneuver differently than cars, impatient or aggressive drivers who follow too closely or make sudden lane changes increase the risk of collision.
Road Hazards and Poor Conditions
Unlike larger vehicles, motorcycles are significantly affected by uneven road surfaces, gravel, potholes, and other hazards. Poorly maintained roads in urban or rural areas of Delaware can cause a rider to lose control, especially during poor weather.
Additional roadway risks include:
- Slick surfaces after rain or snow
- Debris such as branches or tire fragments
- Oil spills or loose gravel in curves
Unfortunately, in these cases, the blame may fall on a government entity responsible for road maintenance, complicating the legal process.
Call Edelstein Martin & Nelson Today
If you’ve been injured in a Delaware motorcycle accident crash, you need legal support from someone who understands the complexities of these cases. The experienced team at Edelstein Martin & Nelson is here to fight for your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve. Call (302) 295-5050 today for a free consultation with a knowledgeable Delaware motorcycle accident lawyer.