Motorcycle accidents can happen at virtually any speed, but many riders are surprised to learn that a large percentage of crashes occur at moderate speeds rather than extreme ones. In Salt Lake City, UT, heavy traffic, intersections, and urban congestion often play a larger role in motorcycle collisions than high-speed highway racing.
Understanding when and how these crashes occur can help riders and drivers recognize risks and make safer decisions on the road.
Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen at Moderate Speeds
While high-speed crashes tend to result in more severe injuries, many motorcycle accidents actually occur at speeds below 40 miles per hour. Urban environments like Salt Lake City create conditions where riders frequently stop, start, and navigate intersections.
At these speeds, drivers may underestimate how quickly a motorcycle is approaching or fail to notice it altogether. Even a 30 mph collision can cause catastrophic injuries because riders lack the protection of a vehicle frame.
Intersections Are a Major Risk Area
Intersections are one of the most common locations for motorcycle accidents. These crashes often occur when a vehicle turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
In busy areas of Salt Lake City, including downtown corridors and major cross streets, the combination of traffic signals, pedestrian activity, and turning vehicles increases the likelihood of moderate-speed collisions. Although these crashes may not occur at highway speeds, they can still result in serious harm.
Higher Speeds Increase Injury Severity
Although many crashes happen at lower speeds, accidents at higher speeds are more likely to result in fatal outcomes. On Utah highways and interstates, motorcycles may travel at 65 mph or more.
When a crash happens at these speeds, riders are at greater risk of:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Severe fractures
The force of impact increases dramatically as speed rises, and the lack of external protection makes even one mistake potentially devastating.
Why Moderate-Speed Crashes Are Still Dangerous
It is easy to assume that lower speeds equal lower risk. However, motorcycles behave differently from passenger vehicles in a crash. A sudden stop or side impact can eject the rider, leading to secondary injuries when they hit the pavement or another object.
Additionally, moderate-speed crashes often happen in congested areas where multiple vehicles are present. This increases the chance of secondary collisions.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Salt Lake City
Speed alone does not cause most motorcycle accidents. Instead, a combination of factors typically contributes to a crash.
Some of the most common causes include:
- Drivers failing to yield the right of way
- Distracted driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Following too closely
- Poor visibility
Urban traffic patterns in Salt Lake City, particularly during rush hour or winter weather conditions, can amplify these risks.
How Riders Can Reduce Their Risk
Although riders cannot control the behavior of other drivers, they can take steps to reduce their exposure to danger. Defensive riding and increased visibility are especially important in city environments.
Practical safety steps include:
- Wearing high-visibility clothing
- Positioning the motorcycle to remain visible in traffic
- Reducing speed when approaching intersections
- Avoiding blind spots
Developing these habits can help riders anticipate potential hazards before they escalate into a collision.
The Impact of Speed on Legal Claims
Speed can also become a key issue after a motorcycle accident. Insurance companies may attempt to argue that a rider was traveling too fast, even when another driver caused the crash.
Determining the true speed of the vehicles involved often requires reviewing police reports, witness statements, and sometimes accident reconstruction evidence. Accurate documentation can play an important role in understanding what actually happened.
Contact the Salt Lake City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries, whether they happen at 25 mph or 70 mph. If you or a loved one was injured in a crash in Salt Lake City, McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers has over 40 years of experience and has recovered over $500 million in compensation for injured clients.
If you’ve been injured, contact your nearest McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve in Austin, TX, and Salt Lake City, UT.
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Austin, TX Office
502 W 14th St, Austin, TX 78701
(512) 474-0222
McMinn Personal Injury Lawyers – Salt Lake City, UT Office
650 S 500 W Suite 290, Salt Lake City, UT 84104
(385) 462-7630
