Speeding is one of the most common reasons for motorcycle accidents in California, but they’re not the only type of accident. Low sider and high sider accidents happen when the bike comes out from under the rider. These accidents result when tires lose traction with the pavement.
What is a low sider?
A low sider can occur if a bike loses traction while turning a corner. For example, the rider might lean too far to one side during the turn. The wheels lose contact with the road, and the bike slides from underneath the rider. The rider remains in motion and is thrown from the bike, leading to abrasion or collision injuries. In more severe scenarios, riders may not completely detach from the bike, leading to the vehicle dragging them instead.
What is a high sider?
High sider motorcycle accidents occur when a rider overcompensates when counter-steering to avoid a low sider. Counter steering can cause the rear wheel to get out of line with the front wheel. When the rear wheel returns to its proper position, the momentum causes the bike and the rider to flip.
In this type of crash, the rider could get thrown in front of the bike. Injuries such as concussions and fractures are typical following a high sider, making them potentially more dangerous than the low sider the rider is trying to avoid.
Precautions for high siders and low siders
It takes great skill to prevent a high sider or a low sider, and when these accidents occur on public roads, multiple people can get hurt. Wearing high-quality safety gear and maintaining good tires can reduce the impact of these accidents.