If you are a motorcyclist or have a family member that is, you may wonder what are the top reasons motorcycles are involved in accidents. A total of two-thirds of motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle which is most commonly a passenger vehicle. The most common cause of these accidents is when a passenger vehicle makes a left-hand turn in front of a motorcyclist. Accidents between an oncoming motorcycle and passenger vehicle that failed to observe the motorcycle are dangerous because they oftentimes result is a head on or nearly head-on crash between the motorcycle and passenger vehicle.
Drivers of passenger vehicles commonly fail to observe motorcycles in traffic and some other types of roadway situations. Many left-turn accidents occur at intersections but can also occur in a variety of driving situations. The costs to motorcyclists of such a crash can be cataclysmic. Motorcyclists are less protected on the roadways and, as a result, can suffer serious and debilitating injuries that may last a lifetime.
Victims of motorcycle accidents may need medical care and ongoing medical treatment; they may be unable to work and may face future disability and challenges that reduce their earning potential; and they may also face emotional pain and trauma associated with a motorcycle accident. The legal process provides protections for motorcycle accident victims who have been injured by the lack of motorcycle awareness some drivers display.
Victims of motorcycle accidents may be able to recover compensation for the complete list of physical, financial and emotional damages they have suffered. As a result, victims should always be familiar with the legal protections available to them when harmed by a careless driver.
Source: Ridergroups.com, “The Top 3 Reasons Why Motorcycles Crash,” Kevin Morris, April 18, 2012
