Whether you enjoy riding a motorcycle for leisure or use it for commuting to work, it’s important to be safe on the road. In 2022 alone, there were 213 fatal motorcycle accidents and 2,918 crashes that resulted in injuries on Pennsylvania roadways, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. At Thomas, Conrad & Conrad Law Offices, our motorcycle accident lawyers in the Lehigh Valley know that accidents can happen any time of day, but certain hours are more dangerous for motorcyclists.
Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen in the Evening
In 2021, a total of 5,932 motorcyclists were killed and an estimated 82,686 were injured in crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Most fatal motorcycle accidents occur between the hours of 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. on weekends. On weekdays, fatal accidents most commonly occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.
The fewest motorcycle fatalities happen during the period of 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. on weekdays.
In addition, motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes at night were three times more likely to be alcohol-impaired than those killed during the day. Unfortunately, motorcycle accident lawyers in Pennsylvania are all too familiar with how these fatal crashes can devastate families.
Factors That Contribute to Motorcycle Crashes at Certain Times
Reduced Visibility
One of the reasons so many motorcycle crashes occur at dusk or at night is because of low visibility. As the sun sets, it can cause a glare, and once it is completely dark, motorcyclists are simply more difficult to see. That’s why it’s always a good idea to wear reflective gear and put reflective strips on your motorcycle.
Heavy Traffic
Although fatal motorcycle accidents are more common on weekends, rush hour during the week can be a dangerous time for motorcyclists as well. Most people drive home from work between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., which results in more traffic, especially on highways. Increased traffic means an increased risk of motor vehicle accidents.
Not only that, when traffic is heavy motorists sometimes become more distracted, frustrated, or aggressive, leading them to engage in dangerous or reckless behaviors on the road. If you commute to and from work on a motorcycle, avoid peak traffic hours if you can.
Impaired Driving and Riding
Driving a car or riding a motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs increases the likelihood of being involved in a crash. Drunk driver accidents are one of the reasons motorcycle fatalities are prevalent on weekend evenings. It’s important to remember that when you drive drunk or high, you’re not only putting yourself at risk but endangering others on the road. It’s best to err on the side of caution and refrain from drinking or using drugs if you’re hitting the road.
If You’ve Been Hurt, a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Pennsylvania Can Help
Regardless of when a crash happens, injuries from motorcycle accidents can turn your life upside down. If you’ve been hurt or have lost a loved one in a fatal motorcycle accident, a personal injury lawyer can evaluate your case, determine whether you have a viable claim, and advise you of your options for recovering compensation.
Schedule a Consultation with a Lehigh Valley Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
At Thomas, Conrad & Conrad Law Offices, our personal injury lawyers have a track record of success in recovering the full and fair amount of compensation our clients deserve. For more than 40 years, we’ve served personal injury victims in the Lehigh Valley and throughout eastern Pennsylvania. To schedule your consultation with a motorcycle accident attorney, contact us online or call us at 610-867-2900. We make it easy to find the quality legal representation you need at several convenient locations.