Motorcycle riders are one of the most vulnerable on the road. This is due to the fact that when a driver is on a motorcycle, they have no protection from the outside. A small crash can be devastating for a motorcyclist. A motorcycle rider needs to remain defensive and diligent while riding. Here are five ways to prevent motorcycle accidents that riders need to be aware of.
1. Distracted Driving
Distracted driving is one of the riskiest practices of people behind the wheel, especially for motorcycle riders. Drivers can get distracted by even the seemingly smallest thing, such as texting, using a cell phone, listening to loud music, or talking with a passenger.
Distracted driving can cause crashes and injuries, especially when a motorcycle is involved. A motorcycle may come into the blind spot of the driver while they are distracted, and an accident may occur.
2. Left-Hand Turns
One of the most common scenarios for motorcycle accidents is vehicles that are turning left. The driver will fail to yield to traffic, or they will not see the rider approaching because of their thin profile. Without seeing the rider, the driver will go ahead and make their left turn and crash into the oncoming motorcycle. This is usually a single-vehicle wreck because the motorcycle crashed while trying to avoid impact or a T-bone collision with another vehicle.
3. Lane Changes
When motorcyclists are driving along the road, they are typically right beside other motor vehicles. Sometimes, motorcycles end up in drivers’ blind spots. Without checking these blind spots, they may change lanes and end up hitting the motorcycle.
This especially happens when a driver is distracted, driving negligently, or refuses to use turn signals. Motorcycle riders can protect themselves by attempting to make sure they are out of drivers’ blind spots. Remember that if you can’t see a driver’s face in his mirror, he can’t see you either.
4. Rear-End Collisions
While some rear-end accidents involving cars are not as severe, when it comes to a motorcycle, any rear-end collision can be deadly. Motorcyclists do not have any protection, so when they are hit from behind, this can cause life-threatening injuries. Rear-end collisions with motorcycles often happen when drivers fail to see road signs or signals.
5. Impairment
Almost half of all motorcycle accidents involve driving under the influence. Getting on a motorcycle after drinking is just as dangerous as getting behind the wheel of a car. In other instances, a motorcyclist may have been hit by drivers under the influence. Drunk drivers may fail to see riders, may make reckless turns, and drive on the wrong side of the road.
At Hope Law Firm, we are well experienced with all the ins and outs of a motorcycle injury. We will be able to help anyone that has been in a motorcycle accident to make sure that they get the justice they deserve and thorough compensation.
Contact Hope Law Firm at (515) 298-5056 for a no-fee, no obligation consultation.