Motorcycles are a popular pastime and a way of transportation in New Mexico. The long, desert roads, dry weather, and stunning scenery make the Land of Enchantment a top destination for bikers. All riders should be aware of the risks of motorcycle riding and the most common types of accidents. Knowing what motorcycle riders might expect on the road allows you to be vigilant and safe. Here, the New Mexico motorcycle accident attorneys at Lerner and Rowe review the most common types of Albuquerque motorcycle accident.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents in Albuquerque
According to 2020 data from the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT), on average, there was a motorcycle-involved crash every 10 hours. Additionally, 82.4% of motorcycle accidents resulted in injury or death. The most common types of motorcycle accidents in Albuquerque were a result of riders engaged in dangerous behavior, so it is no surprise the state has a high number of motorcycle accidents and fatalities.
Left-Hand Turn Accidents
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that in 2020, left-hand turns caused 42% of fatal motorcycle accidents. These collisions typically happen when a car turning left at an intersection hits a motorcyclist coming from the opposite direction.
If the turning driver doesn’t see you or is attempting to run a red light, you may have time to respond and prevent an accident if you slow down and check the area as you approach an intersection. Wearing reflective clothing and accessories and keeping your lights on will increase visibility and help prevent left-hand turn motorcycle accidents.
Head-On Collisions
A head-on collision is another common type of Albuquerque motorcycle accident that frequently results in fatalities or serious injuries. Drivers can cross the center line and collide head-on by speeding, losing control in a curve, and passing on two-lane roadways. A car may occasionally lose control and veer towards oncoming traffic as a result of an equipment problem, such as bad steering or brakes.
Switching Lanes and Blind Spots
Drivers of semi-trucks or other vehicles who fail to spot motorcycles when changing lanes also cause Albuquerque motorcycle accidents. Always be on guard and steer clear of blind spots when riding.
Lane Splitting
Motorcycles often lane split, which means they travel in between lanes of stopped or moving traffic. It is dangerous for a motorcycle to be so close to other cars in a small gap between lanes. In slow or stopped traffic, drivers typically do not anticipate a motorcycle to pass on either side between lanes.
Common Types of Albuquerque Motorcycle Accident Injuries
In a collision with another vehicle or object, motorcycle riders are undoubtedly the most vulnerable. They run the chance of suffering catastrophic injury even when wearing a helmet and other safety equipment. Here are some of common major injuries sustained by those hurt in a motorcycle accident:
- Head injuries – riders benefit greatly from wearing a helmet; however, not all traumatic brain injuries may be avoided. A biker is likely to experience a brain contusion, which can result in permanent brain damage, if their head collides with the ground or is violently thrown back and forth.
- Spinal cord and neck injuries – being thrown off a motorcycle and onto concrete can harm the spinal cord and result in full or partial paralysis.
- Broken bones – motorcycles often fall on the rider, breaking bones in the arms and legs. These fractures may be complicated and require months to heal.
Contact Lerner and Rowe After an Albuquerque Motorcycle Accident
No matter what type of motorcycle accident you or a loved one experienced, the personal injury lawyers at Lerner and Rowe are ready and willing to help you get your life back on track. If you or a loved one have been injured in a Albuquerque motorcycle accident, reach out to us 24/7 today by calling 505-544-4444, using our LiveChat, or completing our form.
You may be entitled to compensation after your accident, including compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and pain and suffering.