Motorcycle riders face a unique set of legal standards on the road.  Laws regarding motorcycles and motorcycle accidents differ from state to state, which is why it is very important to consult with a legal professional about the specifications your state has. Nevertheless, liability in motorcycle accidents is determined in the same fashion of most accident claims: determining negligence.

There are some risks that inherently accompany riding a motorcycle:

• Two-thirds of motorcycle accidents involve another that violated the motorcyclist’s right of way. 
• Motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to die in a crash than someone riding as a passenger in a car, and are 5 times as likely to suffer injury in a collision with a car. 
• Motorcycle drivers are significantly more likely to be obscured by other vehicles or road and weather conditions than automobile drivers.  This is especially an issue at intersections, where an estimated 70% of motorcycle-versus-vehicle accidents occur. 

Road hazards can also be extremely hazardous for a motorcyclist.  Occurrences like potholes, oil slicks, puddles, debris, and other objects all pose significantly more danger to a motorcycle rider than an automobile driver. 

A significant contribution to the overall functionality of the motorcycle is the ability and experience of a rider.  A motorcycle requires more skill and coordination than operating a car entails, and many accidents are caused in whole or largely due to a rider’s lack of basic riding skills, or failure to understand the workings and operating characteristics of the motorcycle.

Misalignment of the front and rear tires at higher speeds can cause the front end of the motorcycle to become unstable and “wobble”.  If an accident is caused by this issue, the manufacturer of the motorcycle might become financially responsible for any resulting injuries due to product liability law. It should always be investigated in the case of an accident that there was no defect in the manufacturing or the design of the motorcycle.