The sheer size difference between a motorcycle and an automobile are the first danger to a motorcyclist during an accident, while the second is the fact that the motorcyclist is extremely vulnerable due to lack of any protection other than possibly a helmet and protective clothing. The driver of an automobile has the advantage of a heavy steel cage surrounding them as well as safety equipment such as airbags and seat belts. Motorcycle accidents are among the most disastrous collisions on the road yet because of certain biases against motorcyclists they may not get the compensation they fully deserve after being struck by a negligent or distracted driver.
The Dangers of Driving a Motorcycle
Motorcycle riders involved in crashes with automobiles are nearly forty times more likely to die and at least eight times more likely to be seriously injured than the passengers and driver of the passenger car. Distracted drivers are a huge factor in motorcycle accidents and, actually, all accidents. Our increasingly busy lives have led to drivers who get behind the wheel and engage in a variety of behaviors other than actual driving. They may be watching what’s happening on the side of the road, reading billboards, checking their makeup, reading a map, trying to find a radio station they like, talking on their cell phone or worse, texting, or scolding the children in the back seat. Whatever they’re doing, it’s not paying attention to those around them and this inattention can lead to tragedy.
Taking the Extra Time to Ensure the Motorcyclist is Seen
While the smaller motorcycle may be more difficult to spot, drivers have a responsibility to spend an extra few seconds ensuring they are not about to crash into a vulnerable motorcyclist who is doing nothing wrong, and following all rules of the road. Many motorcycle accidents occur in intersections when a car makes a left-hand turn, seriously misjudging the speed and distance of an oncoming motorcyclist. The rider of the motorcycle has absolutely no choice but to slam into the side of the car which will obviously lead to extremely serious injuries or death. Drivers often change lanes on a freeway or city street without taking the time to look for motorcyclists or back out of driveways or parking spaces looking only for other cars.
Motorcycle accidents can also be caused by road hazards which have little impact on the automobiles on the road. While a deer can damage a car it is unlikely to kill the driver. On the other hand when a motorcyclist slams into a deer the consequences can be deadly. Minor differences in road height, potholes or debris in the road can be relatively harmless to the driver of an automobile yet can lead to extremely serious accidents for the motorcyclist. Weather conditions are also a factor in motorcycle accidents; a motorcyclist sliding across an icy or slick road can lead to an impact with another vehicle or a fixed object such as a tree.
Getting Legal Help Following Your Motorcycle Accident
Those who have been involved in a serious motorcycle accident should immediately contact a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who is highly skilled in motorcycle accidents in particular. Because motorcycle accidents are typically much more complex than auto accidents, it’s essential that an experienced attorney advocate on your behalf to obtain equitable compensation for your injuries and damages.