Road Hazards for Motorcyclists to Look Out For

Because motorcycles are lower to the ground, typically have only two wheels, and are more challenging to maneuver, they are more susceptible to road hazards than other motorists. What may pose a minor threat to a car driver can be deadly for a vulnerable motorcyclist.

Some of the road hazards that can lead to a motorcycle accident claim include the following: 

Loose Gravel 

Most motorists are not concerned about gravel on the roadway. However, gravel can be a difficult road hazard for motorcyclists to navigate. Winding roads are particularly hazardous due to loose gravel and can cause motorcyclists to lose control of their bikes, spin out, and suffer serious injuries.  

Road Debris 

Various types of items can wind up on roads that don’t belong there, such as: 

• Trash and litter from other vehicles  
• Tree branches 
• Leaves 
• Cargo that has fallen out of the back of other vehicles  
• Broken car parts 

These unexpected items can cause the motorcyclist to brake suddenly or swerve into the path of oncoming motorists.   

Rough Roads 

Whether due to weather, disrepair, heavy truck traffic, resurfacing efforts, or a lack of maintenance, roads can become rough and challenging for motorcyclists to navigate. 

Slippery Surfaces 

Roadways can become wet or slippery for various reasons, including: 

• Rain 
• Ice  
• Snow  
• Other forms of inclement weather 
• Oil spills 
• Spills of other liquids on the roadway 
• Leaves 
• Mud

Wet surfaces can make roads slick, leading to motorcycles becoming unstable or hydroplaning when traversing them. These slick roadways can cause motorcyclists to crash or be hit by other vehicles.  

Potholes 

Roads with drainage issues can sometimes lead to potholes. These potholes can be dangerous to bikers, causing their bikes to flip and eject the biker. 

Edge Breaks 

Edge breaks are spots where a road has weathered or worn irregularly, resulting in uneven breaks in the road. These are common on the shoulders of the road, which often lack enough strength to hold the road up or where precipitation has caused more wear on the shoulders. Bikes can lose traction here and spin out of control. 

Road Joints 

Road joints are a regular component of pavement construction. However, if the pavement slab is not continuous, the road can expand, contract, and warp, causing uneven roads that are dangerous to motorcyclists.  

Contact an Experienced Road Hazard Lawyer for a Free Consultation  

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by a road hazard, you might be confused about your legal rights and whether you even have a right to file a motorcycle accident claim.

An experienced injury attorney from Dulin McQuinn Young can investigate the accident to determine who is liable for your motorcycle accident caused by a road hazard. Depending on the circumstances, various parties could be responsible for road hazard accidents, including trucking companies, other motorists, road repair companies, and government agencies.

We can discuss your case further when you call us at (303) 246-1111 or contact us online.