Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents—and Who May Be Liable

Motorcyclists face a disproportionate risk on the road. While they account for a small fraction of total vehicle traffic, they make up a significant percentage of serious injuries and fatalities. Many motorcycle accidents aren’t the fault of the rider—but are caused by other drivers, poor road design, or mechanical failures.

At Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky, we believe that understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents is key—not just for prevention, but for identifying who may be legally responsible when an accident occurs.

Here’s a breakdown of the most frequent causes and the parties who may be held accountable.

Left-Turn Collisions: A Leading Cause of Motorcycle Crashes

These occur when a car or truck turns left across the path of an oncoming motorcycle. Drivers often misjudge the rider’s speed or fail to notice the smaller vehicle altogether.

Liability:

• At-fault driver: Typically liable for failing to yield.
• Rider’s speed or lane position may be questioned to reduce the driver’s fault, but experienced attorneys know how to push back on these arguments.

Blind Spot Accidents: When Riders Disappear from View

Motorcycles are smaller and more agile, making them more likely to enter a vehicle’s blind spot. Drivers who fail to check before changing lanes or merging may sideswipe a motorcyclist.

Liability:

• The merging driver is almost always at fault.
• Commercial trucking companies may share liability if poor mirrors, training, or policy violations played a role.

“Dooring” Incidents: A Danger in Urban Settings

A parked car occupant opens a door into the path of an oncoming motorcycle without checking traffic. Riders are often thrown or swerved into other vehicles.

Liability:

• The person who opened the door can be held responsible, often under local traffic ordinances.
• Rideshare companies or commercial operators may be liable if it involves one of their vehicles.

Road Hazards: Debris, Potholes, and Poor Maintenance

Uneven pavement, loose gravel, construction debris, and potholes that a car can easily absorb may cause a motorcycle to lose control or crash.

Liability:

• Municipalities or state transportation departments may be liable for failure to maintain safe roadways or adequately mark hazards.
• Construction companies can be held responsible for failing to secure debris or create safe detours.

These cases are complex and often involve notice requirements or shortened deadlines to file a claim against a public entity.

Defective Motorcycle or Part Failure

Faulty brakes, tires, steering systems, or even helmet defects can cause or worsen a crash. Riders may not even realize a defect was the root cause until investigated.

Liability:

• Motorcycle manufacturers may be responsible under product liability laws.
• Parts manufacturers or repair shops could also be liable if improper installation or known defects are involved.

The Importance of Identifying All Liable Parties

In many motorcycle accidents, more than one party may be legally responsible. For example, a driver may have caused the crash, but a defective guardrail worsened the injuries. Or a trucking company may have failed to train a driver who struck a rider.

Uncovering these details requires thorough investigation, accident reconstruction, and access to experts. That’s where experienced attorneys come in.

How Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky Can Help

Our attorneys have decades of experience uncovering the real causes of devastating motorcycle accidents. We work closely with accident investigators, engineers, and medical experts to build the strongest case possible. Whether the fault lies with a negligent driver, a government agency, or a global manufacturer, we are relentless in pursuing justice and maximum compensation.

If you have been injured, or a family member has been injured or killed, in a motorcycle accident, Saltz Mongeluzzi Bendesky is committed to obtaining the results you need and deserve. Contact us today for a free confidential case evaluation.