Beware: Motorcycle Accidents Spike in Spring

The engine growls beneath you, the sky stretches wide and endless, and the highway beckons. Missouri’s spring riding season has arrived, but behind the thrill of the ride, danger often rides pillion.

In 2023, the state saw 172 motorcycle rider fatalities and many more injury crashes. Most of these occurred during the spring and summer when riders took to the roads after bringing their bikes out from winter storage.

With May being recognized as National Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month, now’s the time to understand why crashes spike this time of year and how to prevent them.

Why Spring Is One of the Deadliest Seasons for Missouri Motorcyclists

Winter’s over, the bikes are back, and the roads are busier than ever. But with more motorcyclists hitting the pavement, the chances of a crash also increase.

So, what’s behind the seasonal surge in motorcycle accidents?

More Riders Means More Traffic. More Traffic Means More Traffic Collisions.

Warmer weather means more bikes on the road. Riders flock to scenic highways near the Mississippi and cruise the backroads around St. Louis, finally breaking free from winter. But with so many returning to the road all at once, the chances of an accident climb, especially for new riders and those who are out of practice.

Spring Weather and Sunlight Can Distract

Nice weather pulls everyone outdoors, but it can also pull drivers’ attention off the road. That early morning or late evening sun? It’s blinding. Add blooming trees, busier streets, and scenic views, and drivers become distracted enough to miss motorcyclists in their path, even when looking straight ahead.

Potholes and Loose Gravel

Come spring, the roads are full of winter reminders, like potholes, loose gravel, and fallen branches scattered from past storms. In a car, it’s a bump in the road. On a motorcycle, it can mean a serious crash.

Drivers Need Time To Readjust

When motorcycles disappear for the winter, drivers get used to not looking for them. So, come spring, it becomes easy for drivers to forget to regularly check blind spots and mirrors. But one wrong move, like a sudden lane change, can turn into a catastrophic crash, and the rider pays the price.

Riders Still Relearning

Even the most experienced riders get a little rusty over the winter. Your reflexes, cornering comfort, and coordination might not be as sharp as you remember. Rough spring roads and those early rides can also catch you off guard.

Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month: Sharing the Road Responsibly

Every May, Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month spotlights rider safety, a crucial reminder that drivers and motorcyclists share equal responsibility in preventing crashes.

The campaign encourages riders to sharpen their skills, stay visible, and ride defensively. At the same time, it urges drivers to always stay alert, check blind spots, and give motorcycles the space they need.

When a car and motorcycle collide, the rider bears the brunt of the impact. Motorcyclists are 22 times more likely to die and 4 times more likely to be injured than those in passenger vehicles. They depend on drivers to stay aware and cautious and help keep the roads safe.

Safety Tips for Riders and Drivers

Crash prevention starts long before the road does. Whether riding or driving, a little preparation can go a long way and might save a life.

For Riders:

• Do a pre-ride check. Check your tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels before every ride. Even a worn tire or a dim headlight can cost you control or visibility when it matters most.
• Wear the right gear. Bright colors and reflective gear help you stand out during both day and night rides. Always wear proper protective gear and a helmet every time you ride, even if it’s not legally required.
• Look ahead for road issues. Watch the road ahead for gravel, potholes, and loose debris.  Spotting them early gives you time to react safely.
• Ride defensively. Always ride like drivers can’t see you. Avoid blind spots, don’t weave through traffic, and leave enough space to brake or swerve if needed.

Of course, crash prevention isn’t just on the rider; drivers play a critical role, too.

For Drivers:

• Check twice, especially at intersections. Because motorcycles are smaller, it’s harder to judge their speed and distance. That left turn you think you can make might be riskier than it looks.
• Give bikes more room. Maintain at least one full car length when following a motorcycle. Unlike drivers, riders don’t have the same level of protection, so even a minor bump can lead to major injuries.
• Signal early and drive predictably. Signal early before changing lanes or making a turn. Sudden movements don’t give nearby motorcyclists enough time to react safely.
• Stay focused behind the wheel. Put your phone away, program your GPS before driving, and stay aware of the vehicles around you, especially in your mirrors and blind spots.

Injured in a Spring Motorcycle Accident? We’re Here to Help

Even the most cautious rider can’t control the actions of others. Protective gear and safe riding habits go a long way, but they can’t always prevent serious injuries when another driver is careless.

If you’re facing medical bills, lost income, and a long recovery after a motorcycle crash, you deserve experienced legal support.

At Cofman Townsley, our St. Louis motorcycle accident lawyers know how life-changing these accidents can be. From painful injuries to overwhelming financial stress, we remove the legal burden from your shoulders.

We’ll deal with the insurance companies, gather the evidence, and negotiate for the compensation you deserve.

If your spring ride ended in a crash, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact us for a free consultation.