All drivers must share the road with motorcycle riders

In Orange County and elsewhere in California, motorcycle accidents wreak havoc on the highways. Whether you're dealing with arear-end motorcycle accident on a busy intersection or a high-speed collision on a freeway, it only takes one minor error by a careless driver to inflict severe harm.

Therefore, road safety officials are raising awareness of motorcycle safety this month. Not only can motorcyclists benefit from a reminder of how to keep safe on the road, but drivers must also comprehend why motorcycle accidents occur and how they might be prevented.

How frequent are motorcycle collisions?

Accidents involving motorcycles are a big problem in California and the rest of the country. Frequently, motorcycle collisions result in significant injury or death. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration ((NHTSA) reports that annually, in the United States, more than 5,000 people die in motorcycle accidents.

Motorcycle accidents have increased in California during the previous decade. According to NHTSA data, fatalities related to motorcycle accidents in California have climbed by 29.8 percent, from 415 deaths in 2011 to 539 deaths in 2020.

Who is at fault for the majority of motorcycle accidents?

There are a variety of causes of motorcycle accidents. Nonetheless, the most frequent causes are:

·        Aggressive drivers that fail to "notice" a motorcycle and abruptly change lanes.

·        Speeding motorists that fail to maintain a safe distance between their vehicles and motorcyclists.

·        Drivers who turn left without looking at junctions and cause head-on crashes.

·        Distracted motorists, particularly texting drivers, who fail to understand that motorcyclists share the road with them.

·        Drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs.

How can motorcyclists prevent a collision?

The majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by the reckless or irresponsible behavior of another driver, however motorcyclists can take measures to safeguard themselves, such as:

·        Check your motorcycle's lights, brakes, and tire pressure prior to riding.

·        Avoid riding in the blind area of a driver, especially on freeways.

·        Ride responsibly and observe all traffic laws.

·        At intersections, a common place for motorcycle collisions, proceed with caution.

·        Never operate a motorcycle after consuming alcohol.

·        Wear bright apparel to be visible to other vehicles.

What can motorists do to avoid a collision with a motorcycle?

Motorcycle riders aren't the only ones who need to do more to avoid collisions. Other motorists frequently cause collisions and should be more vigilant behind the wheel. Drivers can avoid causing a motorbike accident by taking the following precautions:

·        When changing lanes on a highway, observe for motorcycles. Prior to changing lanes, you must always triple-check your blind areas.

·        When turning at a junction, check to see if a motorcycle is approaching from the opposite direction.

·        Allow sufficient distance between your vehicle and the motorcycle in front of you. Due to potholes and other road hazards, motorcyclists frequently undertake evasive maneuvers.

·        Respect motorcycle riders and share the roadway with them.

What to do if you get struck while riding a motorcycle

Frequently, drivers who cause motorcycle accidents place the responsibility on the biker. Therefore, if you are engaged in a motorcycle accident, you should consider the following:

·        Do not engage the other motorist in an argument, especially at the accident scene. The fewer words you use, the better. Because anything you say could be used against you in court (e.g., "I'm sorry," "I didn't see you," etc.).

·        If the at-fault driver's insurance company contacts you, consult a motorcycle accident attorney before responding. Insurance adjusters frequently ask leading questions so they may utilize your responses to their advantage.

Contact one of our motorcycle accident lawyers immediately. It is in your best interest to consult a lawyer as quickly as possible, as no two accidents are identical. When you've been hurt in an accident that wasn't your fault, you should have a thorough understanding of your legal rights and alternatives.

Contact one of our motorcycle accident attorneys immediately

The stakes are high following a motorcycle collision. Your personal injury claim or lawsuit could be worth a large amount of money depending on the severity of your injuries, the length of your treatment, and your ability to return to work. Your losses, meanwhile, are nothing more than a danger to the insurance company's bottom line. Therefore, you need someone in your side who will aggressively argue for your best interests and fight for the compensation to which you are entitled.

‍

To find out what we can do for you, schedule a free consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. You are under no obligation to hire us, and all that you share with us will be kept in strict confidence. Additionally, we provide legal representation on a contingency fee basis, which means that you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact us immediately to see how we can assist you.