Motorcycle Accidents And Other Drivers

Posted September 10, 2023 in Personal Injury

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle accidents are often catastrophic due to the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road. While many factors can contribute to these accidents, the negligence of other drivers is a leading cause. Reach out to a lawyer for help with your motorcycle accident claim.

1. Failure to Yield Right of Way:
   One common cause of motorcycle accidents is when a driver fails to yield the right of way to a motorcyclist. This may occur at intersections, while changing lanes, or when making left turns. Drivers who don’t properly check for motorcyclists or misjudge their speed can collide with them, resulting in serious accidents.
2. Unsafe Lane Changes:
   Negligent lane changes, such as failing to signal or check blind spots, can lead to motorcycle accidents. Drivers who abruptly merge into a motorcycle’s lane can cause a collision, often because they did not take the time to assess their surroundings properly.
3. Distracted Driving:
   Distracted driving is a significant contributor to motorcycle accidents. When drivers engage in activities like texting, using smartphones, or adjusting their radios while driving, their attention is diverted from the road. This makes it more likely that they will not notice motorcyclists until it’s too late to avoid a collision.
4. Following Too Closely (Tailgating):
   A lawyer, like a motorcycle accident lawyer from a law office such as Wandres Law, PC, knows that tailgating is a dangerous behavior that can result in rear-end collisions with motorcycles. When drivers follow motorcycles too closely, they leave insufficient stopping distance. If the motorcyclist suddenly brakes or swerves, the driver behind may not have enough time to react, leading to a collision.
5. Speeding:
   Excessive speeding reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of accidents. When drivers exceed the speed limit or drive too fast for road conditions, they may not be able to avoid a collision with a motorcyclist who unexpectedly enters their path.
6. Running Red Lights and Stop Signs:
   Drivers who disregard traffic signals and signs pose a significant risk to motorcyclists. Motorcycles are less visible than larger vehicles, making it easier for drivers to overlook them when violating traffic rules. These violations often lead to dangerous intersection accidents.
7. Impaired Driving (DUI):
   Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s judgment, coordination, and reaction times. Impaired drivers may not notice motorcyclists or may engage in reckless behaviors that endanger motorcyclists’ lives.
8. Failure to Check Blind Spots:
   Another common mistake is failing to check blind spots before changing lanes or making turns. Motorcycles can easily be hidden in a vehicle’s blind spot due to their smaller size. When drivers neglect to check these areas, they may inadvertently collide with a motorcyclist.

Motorcycle accidents caused by another driver’s negligence are a significant concern on the road. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable due to their lack of protection compared to occupants of larger vehicles. To reduce the risk of motorcycle accidents, drivers must remain attentive, avoid distractions, follow traffic rules, and be aware of motorcyclists sharing the road. Additionally, motorcyclists should take defensive riding measures and assume that other drivers may not always see them or follow safe driving practices. By raising awareness and promoting safe driving habits, we can work towards reducing the incidence of motorcycle accidents caused by negligence. Reach out to a law firm for help with your motorcycle accident claim today.