Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Luzerne County

As spring and summer arrive in Luzerne County, motorcycle riders across the region look forward to getting back on the road. Even when riders wear proper safety gear, complete motorcycle safety courses, and stay alert, serious crashes still happen. Unfortunately, many motorcycle accidents occur because other drivers fail to pay attention or share the road responsibly.

When a negligent driver causes a motorcycle crash and a rider is injured, Pennsylvania law allows the motorcyclist to pursue compensation. Below are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Luzerne County that lead to personal injury claims.

Left-Hand Turn Accidents

One of the most frequent causes of motorcycle accidents happens when a driver makes a left-hand turn in front of an oncoming motorcyclist. This typically occurs when:

• The motorcycle is traveling straight through an intersection, and

• The driver misjudges the biker's speed or simply fails to see the motorcycle.

These collisions can also occur when both vehicles are traveling in the same direction. A driver may slow down to turn left, and a motorcyclist may attempt to pass—resulting in a dangerous crash.

Under Pennsylvania's comparative negligence laws, riders must use extreme caution at intersections and avoid overtaking turning vehicles. If a motorcyclist contributes to the crash, their compensation may be reduced.

Lane-Change Accidents

Because motorcycles are smaller than cars, they are much easier to lose in blind spots. Many drivers fail to check mirrors or signal properly before changing lanes.

Common causes of lane-change accidents include:

• Drivers not checking mirrors or blind spots

• Motorcycles remaining in a driver's blind spot

• Distracted or aggressive driving

Motorcyclists should always try to avoid riding in blind spots. A good rule of thumb: if you can't see the driver's face in their mirror, they can't see you. Move out of blind spots promptly to reduce the risk of a sideswipe collision.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on crashes involving motorcycles are among the most devastating and fatal accidents on Luzerne County roads. These accidents can occur due to:

• Distracted driving

• Swerving into oncoming traffic

• Drifting over the center line

• Falling asleep at the wheel

When a motorcyclist is struck head-on, they can be thrown from the bike or crushed by another vehicle, often causing catastrophic or fatal injuries. Riders must constantly scan ahead and identify potential hazards early in an effort to avoid these crashes whenever possible.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving remains a widespread problem throughout Luzerne County. Whether a driver is texting, using GPS, eating, or engaging with passengers, even a momentary distraction can be deadly.

Motorcycles are already harder for drivers to see. When a driver looks down at their phone instead of the road, the likelihood of striking a motorcyclist increases dramatically. Distracted driving is one of the most common—and preventable—causes of motorcycle injuries in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Contact Sklarosky Law Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Luzerne County, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

📞 Call Sklarosky Law at (570) 283-1200
📨 Or use our online contact form to tell us about your potential case.

Motorcycle accident claims can be complex. Do not wait—let us help you protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.