Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience. Feeling the wind and sun as you move through an ever-changing landscape, breathing fresh air as you feel the immediate connection between you and your bike…it’s no wonder why so many people are passionate about this mode of transportation.
What is also undeniable is the fact that many of the things that make riding a motorcycle so very appealing are also the things that increase your risk of harm in the event of an accident. The metal and glass that separate you from the environment when driving a car, truck, or SUV, also provide a high degree of protection in the event of an accident.
Understanding the causes of motorcycle accidents can help you reduce your risk of being injured while on the road. For those who are hurt in a motorcycle wreck, understanding your rights under the law is important to securing a fair and favorable outcome.
How does personal responsibility factor into motorcycle accident statistics?
Riding a motorcycle is inherently more dangerous than being enclosed in a more traditional type of vehicle. When an accident occurs, motorcycles offer virtually no barrier between your body and the road or other vehicles involved in the accident.
The choices you make prior to or during your ride can have a huge impact on your safety, as well as the safety of those with whom you share the road. A prime example is a decision to operate a motorcycle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If you choose to ride while intoxicated, not only can you lose the right to legal recourse in the event of an accident, but you can also be held liable for the injuries of others.
Another way that personal responsibility factors into a liability for a motorcycle accident is the choice to operate the motorcycle in a reckless manner. Reaching speeds well over the legal limit, making abrupt or aggressive driving maneuvers, or attempting to influence the actions of other drivers by making aggressive moves can all lead to a serious accident.
What are some ways that other drivers can cause motorcycle accidents?
In many cases, the individual operating a motorcycle is not the cause of an accident. He or she will likely bear the brunt of injuries, however, due to the sheer nature of traveling by motorcycle.
Driving while intoxicated can lead to serious or even deadly motorcycle accidents, as can be distracted driving. Far too many people choose to pay more attention to their phones than the road. Because motorcyclists can be more difficult to spot, the risk of collision rises when one driver is not paying proper attention to road conditions and traffic.
Inexperienced drivers also pose a high risk. Part of safely operating a car, truck, or SUV is learning how to use all mirrors and windows to routinely scan the road for other occupants, as well as road conditions. New drivers often learn this skill over time, especially when it comes to compensating for a vehicle’s “blind spots.”
Aggressive driving also poses a risk to motorcycle riders. Braking and changing lanes is a bit more complicated on a bike than it is in a car or truck, and motorcycle riders can’t always quickly get out of the way of an aggressive driver.
How do road conditions and vehicle safety factor into motorcycle accidents?
Anyone who has experience riding motorcycles knows how important it is to constantly monitor road conditions. Whether on a highway or back roads, things like potholes, uneven pavement, or accumulations of sand or mud on a road can cause serious harm. Roadways that lack adequate signs and signals can also be dangerous.
Just like with cars and trucks, vehicle defects are also to blame for many motorcycle accidents. When a manufacturer defect creates an unsafe set of circumstances, operators often have no idea the problem exists until a serious accident occurs. Even a seemingly minor part can cause a major accident.
What should I do if I am involved in a motorcycle accident?
Once you’ve received the necessary emergency medical treatment, your next step should be to turn your attention to your legal rights. Even if you feel certain that you are not entitled to compensation for an accident, having an attorney review the matter is wise. Don’t put this off, and don’t take any steps to repair your motorcycle at this stage. Your bike is a piece of evidence in your case and making alterations can complicate the process.
Attorneys skilled in this area of personal injury law has the skills and experience to evaluate the facts in your case and determine your ability to seek compensation for injuries or property damage. When you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle wreck, your legal rights should be the very next priority after you’ve addressed your medical rights.
If you decide to move forward with a personal injury case, your legal team works on your behalf to build a case that will ensure you receive the most favorable outcome possible. You’ll know where to turn if questions arise and have a professional to help navigate the paperwork and legal filings required to move the case forward. Most personal injury matters are settled outside of court through negotiations, but if your case does eventually go before a court of law, you’ll be represented by a professional who will present the facts as clearly and powerfully as possible.
Never hesitate to reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney to discuss your case. Even in the event that your circumstances are not appropriate for a personal injury claim, you’ll walk away with the knowledge that you did everything you could to secure your rights. That peace of mind has value in and of itself.
