When Do Most Motorcycle and Moped Crashes Occur?

When do most motorcycle and moped crashes occur? If you ride, knowing the answer could help you avoid serious danger and protect yourself on the road. Most crashes occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m., with weekends having the highest spike. This timeframe lines up with heavy traffic, fading daylight, and an increase in distracted or impaired drivers.

Whether you’re navigating city congestion or riding through rural New Mexico, being aware of when roads are most dangerous can make all the difference. At Parnall Law, we support motorcycle accident victims and fight for the justice they deserve.

Overview of Motorcycle and Moped Accidents in New Mexico

New Mexico’s open highways and scenic routes attract motorcyclists, but those roads often pose serious risks. Distracted drivers, poor road conditions, and limited protection make motorcycle travel especially dangerous. According to the latest data from the University of New Mexico, 979 motor vehicle crashes involved motorcycles, representing 2.2% of all incidents. Even more concerning, motorcycles were involved in 13% of all fatal crashes, with 52 fatalities reported. These figures show how vulnerable riders are, especially in high-traffic areas like Bernalillo County or on highways such as I-25 and I-40.

Speeding, impaired driving, and failure to yield continue to be the leading causes of crashes on New Mexico roads. The report also shows that many crashes occur in the late afternoon and early evening, matching national crash timing trends.

Where Do Crashes Commonly Occur?

Motorcycle and moped crashes aren’t limited to highways. They frequently happen in a variety of everyday traffic environments, including:

Intersections

Intersections are one of the most dangerous places for motorcyclists. Many drivers fail to notice motorcycles when making left-hand turns or rolling through stop signs. Limited visibility and misjudged distances often lead to collisions, especially when drivers are in a hurry or distracted. Riders are frequently hit by cars crossing their path or turning into their lane without warning.

Urban Streets

City streets see high volumes of stop-and-go traffic, pedestrians, cyclists, and constant distractions. Drivers may be checking their phones, rushing through lights, or navigating unfamiliar routes. For motorcyclists, this environment creates a higher risk of sideswipes, rear-end collisions, and sudden lane changes, especially when visibility is reduced during early evening hours.

Rural Roads

While rural rides might seem peaceful, they can be deceptively dangerous. These roads are often poorly maintained, with potholes, loose gravel, or faded lane markings. Lighting is minimal, and emergency response times may be slower in remote areas. Wildlife crossings and sharp turns also make it harder for riders to anticipate hazards.

Highways

Highways pose unique risks due to high speeds, heavy traffic, and fast lane changes. Motorcycles can easily get lost in blind spots, and sudden braking or merging can lead to catastrophic accidents. In New Mexico, stretches of highways like I-25 and I-40 are particularly hazardous for riders, especially during rush hour or bad weather.

In New Mexico, heavily trafficked areas like Albuquerque’s Central Avenue or Paseo del Norte are particularly high-risk zones, as are rural stretches of highway where wildlife crossings and blind curves increase accident potential.

Tips to Avoid Motorcycle and Moped Accidents

As a law firm that has supported countless motorcycle crash victims, we emphasize proactive safety measures. The Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) outlines essential strategies every rider should adopt:

• Wear Protective Gear: Invest in DOT-approved helmets, armored jackets, gloves, boots, and high-visibility vests. Your gear is your first line of defense.
• Stay Visible: Use reflective clothing and keep your headlights on, even during daylight.
• Ride Defensively: Always keep your head on a swivel. Scan traffic, anticipate mistakes, and position yourself with an escape route in mind.
• Avoid Riding Impaired: Never ride under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or other substances.
• Conduct Pre-Ride Checks: Check that your lights, brakes, tire pressure, and fluid levels are functioning properly.
• Understand Your Bike: Know how your motorcycle reacts under different conditions. Practice handling tight curves, braking in emergencies, and riding in adverse weather.
• Limit Risky Maneuvers: Avoid weaving between lanes or speeding through traffic.
• Ride According to Conditions: Slow down in rain, at night, or in construction zones.
• Learn to Handle Emergencies: Know what to do in case of tire blowouts, a stuck throttle, or poor road surfaces.
• Be Mindful of Passengers and Loads: Ensure passengers know the safety basics and that any cargo is securely fastened.

Steps to Take If You Are Involved in a Motorcycle Accident

Even the safest riders can become victims due to the negligence of others. If you’re involved in a crash, follow these critical steps to protect your health and rights:

• Get to Safety: If possible, move yourself and your motorcycle out of traffic.
• Call Emergency Services: Always report the accident and seek medical evaluation, even if injuries seem minor.
• Document the Scene: Take photos of the crash, road conditions, and your injuries. Note the weather, lighting, and signage.
• Exchange Information: Get contact and insurance details from all parties involved. Be sure to collect the names and contact information of any witnesses.
• Avoid Admitting Fault: Don’t speculate about what happened. Stick to the facts when providing your account.
• Seek Medical Attention: Follow up on injuries with a healthcare provider. Some conditions develop hours or days later.
• Notify Your Insurance: Inform your provider, but avoid detailed statements until you’ve spoken to an attorney.
• Consult a Motorcycle Accident Attorney: An experienced lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue fair compensation for medical bills, lost income, and more.

Injured in a Motorcycle Crash? Call Parnall Law

Many motorcycle and moped crashes happen during high-risk hours when drivers are less alert and roads are more dangerous. These accidents can change your life in an instant, leaving you injured and unsure of what comes next. If you’ve been involved in a crash and need trusted legal guidance, call Parnall Law at (505) 268-6500 for a free consultation. We’ll fight for the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and moving forward with confidence.