Contents
Common causes of motorcycle accidents
Vehicles pulling out of junctions
"Sorry mate, I didn't see you" (SMIDSY) collisions - where drivers fail to notice motorcyclists when emerging from side roads or turning across traffic.
Rear-end collisions
Vehicles failing to notice motorcycles have stopped or are slowing, often due to blind spots or inattention.
Poor road conditions (potholes, gravel)
Road defects pose particular danger to motorcyclists who can lose control, especially on bends or when braking.
Lane changes without looking
Vehicles moving into a motorcyclist's path without checking blind spots, particularly on motorways and dual carriageways.
Opening car doors (dooring)
Parked vehicle occupants opening doors without checking for approaching motorcyclists.
Weather conditions
Rain, ice, or oil on Glasgow roads can cause motorcycles to skid, particularly when combined with poor road maintenance.
What injuries are most common?
Fractures, especially to limbs
Broken arms, legs, wrists, and ankles are common when motorcyclists are thrown from their bikes or land awkwardly. Recovery can take months and may require surgery.
Head and brain injuries
Even with helmets, head injuries can occur. Concussion, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and skull fractures can have life-changing consequences.
Soft tissue injuries
Whiplash, ligament damage, and muscle tears. While less visible, these can be painful and restrict movement for extended periods.
Road rash and skin injuries
Friction burns from sliding along tarmac. Can range from superficial grazing to deep tissue damage requiring skin grafts.
Spinal injuries
Back and neck injuries, including vertebral fractures and disc damage. In severe cases, can result in paralysis.
Psychological trauma
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety about riding again, and depression following serious accidents.
How is liability assessed in motorcycle accidents?
Insurers consider multiple factors when determining who was at fault:
- Road layout: Junction configuration, visibility, road markings, signage.
- Driver actions: Speed, signalling, right of way, attention and observation.
- Road defects: Potholes, surface conditions, lack of maintenance - may involve council liability.
- Witness accounts: Independent observers can provide crucial evidence.
- Vehicle positioning: Where vehicles ended up, skid marks, point of impact.
- Highway Code compliance: Whether all parties followed road rules.
- Helmet and protective gear: While not affecting liability, may impact injury severity assessment.
Motorcyclists often face prejudice - insurers may try to argue contributory negligence (e.g. "going too fast"). Strong evidence is essential to counter these assumptions.
What steps should I take immediately after?
1. Seek medical attention
Call 999 if serious. Visit A&E even if injuries seem minor - adrenaline can mask pain. Internal injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Report to police
Always report motorcycle accidents, especially if injuries occurred. Obtain incident reference number.
3. Take photographs of road surface and vehicles
Document potholes, gravel, oil patches, weather conditions, vehicle positions, and all damage. Use a coin or ruler for scale with road defects.
4. Preserve helmet/clothing as evidence
Do not clean or repair. Damage patterns can help reconstruct the accident and prove impact severity.
5. Gather witness details
Names, phone numbers, and addresses of anyone who saw the accident.
6. Note vehicle and driver details
Registration, make/model, insurance details, driver name and address.
7. Check for CCTV and dashcam footage
Identify nearby businesses or council cameras. Request footage quickly as it may be overwritten.
What compensation can motorcycle accident victims claim?
Injury compensation (general damages)
For pain, suffering, and loss of amenity. Motorcycle injuries often result in higher awards due to severity.
Lost earnings
Current and future income loss if unable to work or return to previous role.
Medical costs
Private treatment, physiotherapy, prescriptions, adaptive equipment.
Motorcycle damage/replacement
Repair costs or market value if written off. Includes modifications and accessories.
Protective gear replacement
Damaged helmet, leathers, boots, gloves. Should never be reused after an accident.
Care and assistance
If injuries require help with daily activities, professional or family care costs can be claimed.