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Different Types of Motorcycle Crashes (Part A)

Labor Day is just around the corner, which means many motorcyclists from the northern states are thinking about the end of the motorcycle season. These motorcyclists will be taking advantage of the time that is left and trying to get as much riding time in as they can. While many of these motorcyclists may not be thinking about motorcycle crashes, the risks are still there.

Labor Day always brings out additional traffic including cars, vans, RVs and trailers, which can all increase the risk of a motorcycle crash. With a greater number of vehicles sharing the road during Labor Day, motorcyclists will need to ride carefully.

Motorcyclists should be aware of the different types of motorcycle crashes that can happen. Preparation can make all the difference, especially as you take to the road this Labor Day.

Types of Motorcycle Crashes

Since riders will be facing increased odds of a motorcycle accident around Labor Day, it's important to ride smart, which means being aware of the different types of motorcycle crashes that commonly occur.

For example, some motorcycle crashes occur when a motorcycle slides away from a rider, which is also known as a low side accident. This usually results when a motorcyclist leans too far on their bike (or if the surface of the road suddenly changes) causing the motorcycle's tires to lose their grip.

Some motorcyclists' first reaction is to stand up, but that may increase the risk of serious injuries, including broken bones. The best thing to do is get your body to relax. Observe what is going on around you and the direction your bike is going.

If your bike is sliding in front of you, it likely won't hit you. You may hit the pavement but you don't have to worry about the bike hitting you. However, if the bike slips behind you, there is a chance it may hit you. In this case, you may need to try and push it away from your body.

Another common type of motorcycle crash is when the rear tire of a bike slides and then suddenly grips the road, which is referred to as a high side. Preparation for this type of motorcycle crash is more difficult. The speed a motorcyclist is riding and how far they are leaning are factors that will determine the force at which a rider may be thrown from the bike.

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