Motorcycle accidents can have devastating and often deadly consequences. When a motorcycle rider collides with a structure or another vehicle, they don’t have the physical protection afforded by a car or other motor vehicle. Therefore, it is essential for motorcyclists to be aware of the factors that place them at risk of being involved in a motor vehicle accident. So, what causes most U.S. motorcycle accidents?
U.S. Motorcycle Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2017, data showed that the most harmful event for most motorcycles involved in fatal crashes were collisions with motor vehicles in transport. The agency’s 2019 statistics showed that motorcycle riders continue to be overrepresented in fatal traffic crashes. Further, motorcyclists were approximately 29 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and were four times more likely to be injured.
Cause of U.S. Motorcycle Accidents
The majority of U.S. motorcycle accidents are not caused by motorcycles—they are caused by other vehicles. The reasons vary. Often collisions can happen when:
- A motor vehicle driver fails to check their mirrors or blind spot before changing lanes;
- Distracted driving, such as when a driver is using their cell phone or taking their eyes off the road, may also be a contributing factor; or
- A driver fails to observe traffic conditions or rules.
Left-hand turn motorcycle accidents are one of the most common causes of these types of collisions. As the name implies, these crashes occur when a driver fails to notice a cyclist when making a left-hand turn. Motorists are also at risk of hitting a motorcyclist when they are driving at excessive rates of speed.
The best way for a motorist to avoid crashing into a motorcyclist is by being aware of the road conditions and paying complete attention while driving. However, motorcyclists cannot rely on every motorist to follow these rules. Practicing defensive driving may help motorcyclists avoid accidents. However, even the most careful rider could still be involved in a collision. When there is a crash of this nature, the rider may suffer devastating and even catastrophic injuries or be killed.
Motorcycle Accident Statute of Limitations
Left-hand-turn and distracted driving accidents and other types of motorcycle collisions can result in medical bills, lost wages and time at work, and emotional trauma. If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to another driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to recover payment for your damages. However, the law limits the time an accident victim has to protect their right to recover for their losses. Therefore, it’s important to take action as soon as possible to assess your case.
Motorcycle Accident Damages
A motorcycle accident victim’s damages can be extensive. Often the individual will need significant medical and rehabilitative care. The injured rider may also have lost wages and time at work. Someone who has suffered a catastrophic injury may have sustained a traumatic brain injury, amputation, full or partial paralysis, or loss of bodily functions. Those who have lost a loved one to a motorcycle accident will have significant monetary and emotional damages. In all of these situations, it will be important for those impacted to have what they need to recover their damages.
If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, it’s essential that you consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your case. You and your lawyer can evaluate your claims and determine your potential damages.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Have you or a loved one been injured in a motorcycle accident? Our motorcycle accident attorneys can help. Dailey Law Firm, P.C., represents injured victims of motorcycle accidents, including motorcycle and vehicle accidents caused by drunk drivers, motorcycle accidents involving hit and run drivers, collisions with under-insured or uninsured drivers, crashes resulting from defective products, and more. Your initial consultation is free of charge. If you have a motorcycle injury case, we’ll work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you won’t be charged any legal fees unless we obtain a settlement for you.