Motorcycle riding offers a sense of freedom and adventure when traveling. Many riders have bucket list type trips from riding through the Florida Keys to even traversing Mexico as my friend did. Twice. I interviewed “Gringo Bill” on a podcast years ago, listen in here on Staying Adventurous Episode 11.
Yes, travel by motorcycle creates for an epic adventure and on my podcast episode a story to share for a lifetime, but it also demands heightened awareness and caution. Among the various hazards riders face on the road, collisions with parked cars present a unique and often underestimated risk. Unlike accidents involving moving vehicles, collisions with parked cars can catch motorcyclists off guard, leading to severe injuries and damage. If you were involved in a motorcycle crash, please consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Kansas City for legal guidance and support.
Let’s delve into the causes, consequences, and preventive measures concerning collisions with parked cars while on a motorcycle.
Motorcycle Collisions with Parked Cars
Collisions with parked cars occur when a motorcycle rider either strikes a stationary vehicle or attempts to avoid one, resulting in a crash. These accidents can happen due to various factors, including:
- Visibility Issues: Parked cars, especially those parallel-parked along streets, can obstruct a rider’s line of sight, making it challenging to anticipate potential hazards.
- Opening Doors: One of the most common scenarios involves a parked car’s occupant opening the door without checking for oncoming traffic, leading to a collision with passing motorcycles.
- Limited Maneuvering Space: Narrow streets or crowded parking lots leave little room for maneuvering, increasing the likelihood of inadvertent collisions with parked vehicles.
- Distracted Driving: Both motorcyclists and drivers of parked cars may be distracted by electronic devices or other factors, impairing their ability to react to potential dangers.
Being aware of your surrounding and staying focused on these hidden risks can help save yourself and your trip too. Here are some preventative tips to keep in mind.
Preventive Measures for Motorcyclists
While collisions with parked cars may seem inevitable in congested urban environments, there are steps motorcyclists can take to reduce the risk:
- Stay Vigilant: Maintain a heightened awareness of your surroundings, especially when riding in areas with parked cars. Scan the road ahead for potential hazards and be prepared to react accordingly.
- Keep a Safe Distance: Maintain a safe distance from parked cars to allow ample time to react if a door suddenly opens or a vehicle pulls out unexpectedly.
- Anticipate Driver Behavior: Watch for signs that indicate a parked car’s occupant may be preparing to exit, such as brake lights or movement inside the vehicle. Be prepared to brake or maneuver to avoid a collision.
- Ride Defensively: Assume that drivers may not see you and be prepared to take evasive action if necessary. Position yourself in the lane to maximize visibility and minimize the risk of being caught in a driver’s blind spot.
Consequences of Collisions with Parked Cars
Collisions with parked cars can result in severe injuries and property damage for motorcyclists.
- Head and Brain Injuries: Impact with a parked car or the pavement can cause traumatic brain injuries (TBI), even if the rider is wearing a helmet.
- Limb Fractures and Injuries: Extremities may be crushed or trapped between the motorcycle and the parked car, resulting in fractures, dislocations, or amputations.
- Road Rash and Abrasions: Sliding along the pavement during a collision can lead to painful skin abrasions and road rash, requiring medical treatment and extensive recovery.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma from the impact can cause internal bleeding, organ damage, or other serious internal injuries.
- Psychological Impact: Collisions with parked cars can also result in psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or anxiety related to riding in traffic.
Collisions with parked cars pose a significant risk to motorcyclists, often resulting in serious injuries and damage. By understanding the causes of these accidents, recognizing their potential consequences, and implementing preventive measures, riders can reduce the likelihood of being involved in such incidents. Stay vigilant, keep a safe distance from parked cars, anticipate driver behavior, and ride defensively to navigate the hazards of riding in areas with parked vehicles. Remember, proactive measures and caution can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
