Chronology of a Motorcycle Accident (Reversed Timeline)
1. Death
The worst-case scenario every rider wants to avoid.
Influencing factors: The speed of medical assistance and the severity of the injuries.
2. Rider Impact
The rider collides with an object or surface.
Influencing factors: The quality of protective gear and the final speed at the moment of impact.
3. Motorcycle Collision
The motorcycle makes contact with a vehicle, an object, or the road.
Influencing factors: Speed just before the collision.
4. Rider’s Actions
Braking, swerving, or a combination of both.
Influencing factors: The rider’s experience and practiced techniques.
5. Reaction and Decision
The time between realizing the danger and taking action.
Influencing factors: Reaction speed and accumulated riding experience.
6. Moment of Awareness
The rider realizes they are in a dangerous situation.
Influencing factors: Ability to identify danger signs early.
7. Beginning of the Situation
The danger has already emerged, but the rider hasn’t yet realized it.
Influencing factors: Changes in vehicle movement or road conditions, often hidden by visual blockers.
8. Approaching the Situation
The rider enters a hazardous area where the risk potential increases.
Influencing factors: Recognizing danger “waves” and adjusting speed or position accordingly.
9. Everything is Fine
The rider is cruising without any apparent danger.
What Influences an Accident?
- Threat Potential (“P”)
Threats increase in a wave-like pattern, especially in critical areas like intersections, exits, or clusters of vehicles. Riders must understand this principle and adjust their riding style accordingly. - The Moment of Change
Most dangers arise from changes—vehicle movement, road conditions, or unexpected events. If these changes are hidden by blockers, the rider may fail to notice them. - Reaction to the “Sudden” Moment
Novice riders often realize they’re in a dangerous situation too late. Without experience or preparation, their actions are ineffective, and they have minimal time to correct the situation.
Novice Rider:
Novice vs. Veteran Riders
- Fails to recognize potential threats.
- Realizes danger too late.
- Has limited time and unpracticed skills to respond.
- Relies on luck and protective gear.
Veteran Rider:
- Identifies waves of threat potential early.
- Reduces speed and prepares for changes, even hidden ones.
- Has experience with emergency braking and swerving.
- Relies on skill rather than luck.
How Can Novice Riders Prepare?
- Develop Situational Awareness:
Watch accident videos and analyze the causes and early signs of danger. - Learn Key Concepts:
Understand the wave-like nature of threats and recognize critical danger zones like intersections, exits, and blockers. - Lower Your Expectations:
Don’t assume other drivers will follow the rules. - Practice Essential Skills:
- Train emergency braking at realistic speeds (e.g., 100–150 km/h).
- Learn to combine braking with swerving.
Conclusion
Understanding the stages of an accident and the factors that influence each stage can help a novice rider transition to a veteran level. Predicting threats, adjusting speed, and mastering riding techniques will reduce reliance on luck and gear while significantly improving safety.
