European Study Yields Surprising Results about Motorcycle Accidents
Researchers discovered some surprising facts about the common causes of motorcycle accidents.

February 27, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- A recent European study has shed light on the common causes of motorcycle accidents. The Motorcycle Accidents in Depth Study (MAIDS) was based on 921 motorcycle accidents, which included 103 fatalities, across France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. While some of the findings were expected, others were unanticipated.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

The study indicates that the motorcyclists most often collide with passenger vehicles. Unsurprisingly, 70 percent of passenger vehicle drivers involved in accidents with motorcycles failed to perceive the motorcyclist. And while 73.1 percent of riders attempted some form of collision avoidance, 32 percent nonetheless experienced some form of loss of control during the maneuver.

While this may seem disheartening to riders, there are steps that can be taken to maximize safety; other findings from the study indicate:
- Over half of the accidents occurred at intersections
- Although 90 percent of those involved in crashes were wearing helmets, nine percent of helmeted riders lost their helmets in crashes due to improper fit, fastening or damage
- Younger riders -- those between 18 and 25 years of age -- crashed at a higher percentage and riders aged 41 to 55 crashed less frequently
- Riders wearing dark clothes were more likely to crash than others
- Modified conventional street motorcycles were over-represented in crashes in the study but engine size did not appear to be a factor
- Unlicensed bikers were more likely to crash than properly licensed bikers
- Weather was deemed to be a factor in only 7.5 percent of accidents

Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Even the most seasoned and careful drivers may be involved in accidents. If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. For more information, contact a North Carolina personal injury attorney today.

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