Motorcycle accidents are an all-too-common occurrence here in Pennsylvania. While motorcyclists can take certain precautions to avoid an accident, they ultimately can’t control the behaviors of other drivers. A large percentage of motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers who aren’t paying attention and don’t notice the motorcyclist when turning or changing lanes.

As such, it can be helpful to know the most dangerous places to ride a motorcycle in Pennsylvania so you can avoid these roads or take extra precautions when riding on them. These are some of the most dangerous places to ride a motorcycle in Pennsylvania:

• Route 910
• Ohio River Boulevard
• Route 8 in Pittsburgh
• Penn Ave, especially where it connects to Fifth Avenue
• Liberty Ave.
• Route 8 and Hardies in Gibsonia
• East Carson St.
• Washington Blvd.

This list is compiled from data involving motorcycle accidents. Pennsylvania ranks as the 29th most dangerous state to ride a motorcycle in the U.S. Other states, like Mississippi and Texas, ranked the highest.

What Contributes to Dangerous Motorcycle Destinations?

These dangerous Pennsylvania locations have a few things in common, including heavy traffic and frequent intersections. Busier areas are also more likely to have distracted drivers. Some of these roads are also frequently used for commercial transportation, which leads to reduced visibility and slower-moving traffic.

Safety Tips for Navigating These Dangerous Areas

If any of these locations are on your normal travel route, it’s important to implement certain safety standards ahead of time. Evaluate the conditions that make the specific route unsafe. If it’s a matter of vehicles speeding, reducing your own speed can also reduce some of the risks. If there is a lot of traffic, it may be useful to plan routes when traffic is lighter.

There are also basic things that all motorcyclists can do to improve safety, regardless of where they’re riding. Pennsylvania law requires that all motorcyclists under the age of 21 years wear a helmet. In addition to always wearing a helmet, it’s also important to ensure that it’s fitting properly. Riders who are over the age of 21 years may still choose to wear a helmet to protect themselves if they’re in a motorcycle accident.

Drinking and riding can also reduce reaction times. Certain times of the day and year also tend to lead to higher rates of motorcycle accidents. Nighttime riding makes it harder for other drivers to notice motorcyclists. Rainy weather can also lead to an increase in motorcycle accidents.

What To Do If You’re In a Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident

If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, whether it’s on one of these roads or any of Pennsylvania’s other roads, it’s important to seek immediate medical care. After this, the next best thing you can do is evaluate your legal options. Motorcycle accidents are often severe, leading to expensive medical bills and lost wages. A personal injury lawsuit may help you and your family collect the funds that you need to recover.

Contact a Pittsburgh Personal Injury Lawyer to Discuss Your Motorcycle Accident Case in Pennsylvania

Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing. Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The Law Office of Mark A. Smith represents clients injured because of a motorcycle accident in Erie, Greensburg, Homestead, Pittsburgh, and throughout Pennsylvania. Call 412-567-9598 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case.

The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.