Statistics show that the most common type of motorcycle crash involving another vehicle occurs when:

Left-turn crash pattern: NHTSA data consistently shows that approximately 36-42% of motorcycle-vehicle fatal crashes involve an oncoming vehicle turning left in front of the motorcycle.

Why it happens: Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see than cars; drivers of turning vehicles often look for large vehicles but fail to detect motorcycles; motorcycles are difficult to judge for speed — drivers may misjudge the time/space available to turn.

Protection strategy: Cover the brakes when approaching ANY intersection; watch for vehicles likely to turn (waiting in turn lanes, facing you, with turn signals on); be prepared to stop or swerve; ride in a position that maximises your visibility (cover from lane position).

Intersection awareness: Reduce speed approaching intersections; cover brakes (hover fingers on front brake lever without applying); don't assume you're seen — make eye contact if possible.