There’s something liberating about riding a motorcycle — the open road stretching out in front of you and the feeling of complete freedom. It’s a sense of connection with the environment you just don’t get in a car.
But with the thrill of riding comes the inherent risks of the road, which can result in more serious and debilitating injuries for motorcycle riders without the protections cars and trucks provide. The medical costs to treat these injuries can overwhelm anyone.
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a motorcycle crash that someone else caused or significantly contributed to, you shouldn’t have to shoulder the medical bills and other expenses related to the accident. In this article , we’ll explore the common causes of motorcycle accidents and how an Omaha motorcycle accident lawyer from Berry Law can help you recover the compensation you need and deserve.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are more susceptible to crashes than other vehicles on the road.. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), per miles traveled, motorcycle riders are 24 times more likely to die in a traffic accident compared to cars.
One of the major causes is negligence on the part of other drivers.
Here’s how car and truck operators can cause motorcycle accidents:
- Left-Turn Accidents: Motorcycles are often struck when another vehicle is turning left in front of oncoming motorcycles. Drivers can easily misjudge the speed or distance of the motorcycle.
- Failure to Yield: When drivers fail to yield to the right of way of motorcycles, especially at intersections, serious collisions can result.
- Aggressive Driving: Drivers who exhibit aggressive behaviors, such as tailgating or cutting off motorcycles, significantly increase the risk of a motorcycle crash.
- Misjudged Speed: Drivers can easily underestimate the speed of an approaching motorcycle, which can result in collisions if they pull out in front of motorcycle riders.
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who focus more on their smartphones or navigation systems than the road are less likely to notice motorcycles traveling around or in front of them.
- Driving Under the Influence: Impaired drivers are an obvious hazard, as drugs and alcohol can significantly impair judgment and reaction time and pose risks to others on the road, especially motorcyclists.
- Lane Changes Without Checking Blind Spots: Drivers often change lanes without checking their blind spots. But even when they do check them, it’s easier for drivers to overlook motorcycles. Without checking blind spots carefully, a motorist can easily collide with a motorcycle in their path.
- Opening Car Doors: Dooring causes many accidents, especially in urban areas. When occupants of parked or stopped cars open their car doors into traffic without checking to see that it is safe, they cause devastating accidents for oncoming motorcycle riders.
Why is it Important to Understand Why Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
The goal of understanding the cause of motorcycle collisions is to save lives and prevent injuries. By identifying the root causes of these wrecks , authorities can implement targeted measures and regulations to reduce the risks associated with motorcycle riding.
Knowing the causes allows for the development of effective training programs for both riders and drivers, and can aid in the design and implementation of road infrastructure that better accommodates motorcycles. This could involve creating dedicated lanes, improving road signage, or implementing other measures to enhance the safety of motorcyclists.
Understanding the common causes of accidents can help motorcyclists be more aware of the risks they face and take steps to mitigate them. For example, they may choose to ride defensively, avoid certain types of roads, or wear additional safety gear.
Knowing the common causes of crashes helps protect the rights of motorcyclists. Understanding these, your lawyer can help you build a strong case against the negligent party if you wish to pursue compensation for your damages through a motorcycle accident claim.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash
The actions you take in the hours or days following a motorcycle accident can help strengthen your claim and improve your chances of recovering the maximum compensation you deserve. Here are the steps you should take after a motorcycle accident:
1. Ensure Safety
If possible, move injured parties and vehicles away from traffic and other potential hazards. Use hazard lights or other means to warn oncoming vehicles of the crash scene.
2. Check for Injuries
Check yourself and others involved in the accident for injuries. If the accident hurt someone, call 911.
3. Call Emergency Services
Notify the police and report the accident. You’ll need to provide information such as the location of the accident, whether anyone suffered injuries, and the number of people involved.
4. Exchange Information with Others Involved
Share insurance, registration, and contact information with other parties involved in the accident. Also ask for contact information from any eyewitnesses.
5. Document the Accident Scene
Take photos of the crash site, including the position of vehicles, damages, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident. Collect the names and badge numbers of police officers who responded to the call.
6. Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide detailed information about the incident. However, do not provide any statements to the other party’s insurance company.
7. Seek Medical Attention
Even if your injuries aren’t serious, see a medical provider. Follow your doctor’s recommended orders and attend all medical treatments and appointments.
8. Preserve Evidence
Gather all documents regarding medical treatments, expenses, and communication with insurance companies. Also, preserve any evidence of the accident, including damaged gear or clothing, photographs, and accounts from witnesses.
9. Consult a Lawyer
Consult a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer experienced with motorcycle accident claims can help you understand your legal rights and options. A lawyer can help you with any disputes regarding liability or compensation.
Berry Law’s Team Provides You With Multiple Attorney Perspectives
Protect Your Rights by Contacting a Lawyer About Your Motorcycle Accident
John S. Berry , Omaha Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents happen far too often, resulting in severe and life-altering injuries. You need a lawyer with your best interests in mind who will fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Omaha personal injury lawyers at Berry Law today for your free consultation, and we promise to provide you with the same dedicated legal representation we’ve offered clients for over 50 years.
