Risk Factors for Motorcycle Accidents in San Francisco
The most recent Census data reports that more than 870,000 people reside in the city. With a population this size, it leaves many wondering, “How bad is San Francisco traffic for motorcyclists?” Poor traffic conditions, including overall road quality, frequent congestion from a non-supportive infrastructure and negligent drivers increases the chance of accidents for cyclists.
Some of the most common causes for accidents include:
- Left-hand turns. Drivers will look to make sure there is no oncoming traffic, but do not wait long enough to see motorcycles coming. As a result, when they turn, the bike traveling through the intersection is struck.
- Lane changes. Another common driving maneuver that puts cyclists at risk is changing lanes. It is often the result of the driver failing to check his or her blind spot. When they do not look carefully enough, it causes them to crash into the motorcyclist while switching lanes.
- Speeding. The faster a car is traveling the less control they have over the vehicle. This makes it more difficult for them to stop or break in time to avoid a collision, such as a hard to spot motorcycle.
- Negligent driving. This refers to drivers who are distracted or under the influence. Operating a vehicle after drinking too much or while texting is illegal and puts everyone on the road at risk. It can be difficult to hold negligent drivers responsible, which is why it is necessary for victims to work with an experienced San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer to help hold drivers accountable.
How Often Do Motorcycles Crash?
Unfortunately, accidents occur far too often. Despite only making up 3% of registered vehicles, motorcycle collisions account for 14% of all traffic fatalities. In fact, the National Safety Council found that across the United States fatalities among motorcycle riders and passengers increased 11% from 2019 to 2020.
California sees a higher rate of accidents compared to other states. In 2020, the state experienced the second highest number of motorcycle deaths with 539 fatalities.
Even if riders opt for a non-motorized option, San Francisco bicycle accident statistics highlight that riding a bike still poses a risk for injury. According to TransBASE, the city’s tracking system, more than 430 people were injured riding bicycles in 2022. The majority of collisions occurred in an intersection when drivers are changing lanes or turning.
What Are the Most Common Motorcycle Injuries?
Due to the nature of riding, motorcyclists are more vulnerable to injuries in the event of a crash compared to traditional vehicles. While wearing a helmet and protective gear can help, riders are still largely unprotected if they are struck by a car. The injuries our San Francisco accident attorneys most commonly see include:
- Head injuries, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord trauma
- Internal bleeding
- Broken or dislocated bones
- Lacerations
- Severe road rash
These injuries require immediate medical attention and potentially years of recovery time. Some motorcyclists even face temporary or permanent disability, which impacts their earning potential.
What Should You Do If You’re in a Motorcycle Accident?
In the event you are injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to understand your rights, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit, and what type of compensation you may be entitled to. To do this, you will want to contact a San Francisco motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. At Avrek Law, our attorneys have more than 50 years of combined experience resolving cases in favor of clients who were wrongfully injured. Our team will help you understand the legal options and ensure that you receive the full compensation that you are entitled to. Avrek Law has recovered more than $1 billion in compensation for injury victims in over 45,000 cases. Contact us for your free consultation to learn more!
