Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Any motorcycle driver knows the freedom and enjoyment that comes with taking their bike for a ride. However, it is important that they also understand the risks that come along with motorcycles. Florida is repeatedly found (with over 600 deaths in 2015) to be the most dangerous state in the US for motorcycles, with Miami-Dade routinely topping out as the most dangerous county (67 deaths in 2015). There are a variety of causes for motorcycle accidents, some of which we have listed below.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Fort Lauderdale, or have lost a loved one, contact Friedland & Associates today to discuss your situation. We will explore your options for filing a personal injury claim, or a wrongful death suit after the death of a loved one in a motorcycle crash. Schedule an initial consultation now, and get started on the path toward financial compensation for your suffering.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Left Turns
Far too often, a driver will be taking a left turn at an intersection and either misjudge the speed of an oncoming motorcycle, or simply fail to recognize them on the road at all (known as inattentional blindness). The oncoming motorcycle does not have time to come to a safe stop, and instead collides with the vehicle.
Blind Spots
All cars have blind spots, and they can be major contributing factors to many accidents, especially lane changes. Unfortunately, motorcycles take up even less visual space, and get lost in blind spots easier. In addition, a minor nudge by a passenger vehicle can be fatal for a motorcycle rider.
Drugs and Alcohol
Drivers of either motorcycles or other vehicles may be on the road while under the influence of mind-altering substances, which increases their likelihood of causing an accident significantly. This, combined with the fact that motorcycles are harder to see in general, is a combination of factors that contribute to many accidents.
Speeding Drivers
Speed is a major factor in many car accidents, whether or not there was a motorcycle involved. However, because of the lack of protection a motorcycle driver and passenger have, the risk of death or serious injury increase dramatically as the speed of the accident increases. At a higher speed, drivers have less time to react, and it takes longer to come to a safe stop, which is a dangerous combination.
Loss of Control
Two wheels will always be less stable than four, which means a motorcycle is more susceptible to losing control because of unsafe road conditions. This could be something like hitting a patch of sand on a turn, or riding across grooved pavement that forces the front wheel in an unexpected direction.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting is illegal in Florida, although many riders argue it is a safer practice while sitting in traffic because it avoids being rear-ended. However, it does increase the risk of being hit by a car changing lanes, or even someone opening a door in traffic without thinking to look behind for oncoming motorcycles.
Have You Been Injured In a Motorcycle Accident?
If you have suffered injuries and need to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Fort Lauderdale, do not hesitate to contact the team at Friedland & Associates today. We will work with you to recover the financial damages you are rightfully owed following your accident and injuries, and will negotiate aggressively on your behalf. If your accident was the fault of another party, then you may be entitled to personal injury payments.
