Motorcycle accidents are generally more dangerous and more likely to result in fatalities than other types of motor vehicle accidents, due mostly to the comparative lack of physical protections afforded to motorcycle drivers. But what are the most common causes of these accidents?
Below is a quick overview:
- Cars attempting to make left-hand turns: This is the most dangerous situation for motorcyclists, and unfortunately these types of accidents account for 42 percent of all motorcycle-car accidents. It occurs when the car strikes the motorcycle while the motorcycle is either passing the car, attempting to pass the car or going straight through an intersection. Usually this happens because the driver of the car simply doesn’t see the motorcyclist coming, but this is not an excuse that can help the driver avoid liability.
- Lane splitting: This is a behavior for which the motorcyclist is responsible. Lane splitting is when the motorcyclist drives between two lanes of vehicles, usually that are stopped or moving slowly in a traffic jam. This is illegal in almost every state in the nation, including Florida, and will result in the motorcyclist bearing liability for the accident.
- Road hazards: Hazards in the road are more dangerous to motorcyclists than other types of vehicles, due to the smaller size and less stable nature of the bikes. Examples of such hazards include dead animals, potholes, debris in the road, uneven lane heights and other irregularities.
- Driver behavior: In about half of all single-motorcycle accidents, the driver was either speeding or under the influence of alcohol. This is consistent with amounts in single-vehicle cases involving standard cars. The effects are more severe with motorcycles, though, because there are fewer protections for the rider.
For the guidance and advice you need after a serious motorcycle accident, speak with an experienced Florida personal injury lawyer at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez, Murphy & Walsh.