Boston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

What are the most common types of motorcycle accidents?

A collision between a car and a motorcycle running at high speeds usually results in a catastrophe. The most common causes of these crashes include:

• Encountering a Negligent Driver. The culprit of most road accidents involving motorcycles versus cars is the car driver’s negligence. When a car driver fails to exercise caution on the road, everyone is at risk, especially motorcycle riders. They are more likely to die or experience a debilitating injury than car drivers and their passengers.
• Failing to Yield the Right-of-Way. Accidents between cars and motorcycles frequently occur in road intersections. Hence, all drivers must proceed with caution at an intersection, especially if you are behind handlebars because you are more at risk of sustaining severe injuries. Often a collision happens because cars making a left turn at an intersection fail to yield the right-of-way.
• Forgetting to Factor in a Blind Spot. A car is a big machine. Despite the rearview and side mirrors, there are too many blind spots in a vehicle. For example, a car driver may fail to see a smaller motorcycle near the car’s periphery. The person on the bike is at risk when cars are changing lanes.
• Facing a Poor Speed or Distance Perception. It is common to incorrectly judge the distance or speed of a motorbike. As a result, many drivers pull out in front of the bike. They should wait for any motorcycle to pass before entering any street.
• Dealing with Distracted Drivers. Distracted driving is an endemic problem because drivers cannot resist looking at their smartphones while on the road. Using a smartphone while on the wheel is as dangerous as driving under the influence.
• Driving Under the Influence. Drinking and driving has been a problem since time immemorial. Unfortunately, despite the public safety advertisements and other campaigns, many irresponsible people keep drinking and driving.
• Driving When Drowsy or Exhausted. Driving when you are sleepy, drowsy, and exhausted is irresponsible. It is akin to driving under the influence. When you are sleepy, your judgment is impaired. As a result, your reaction time may be reduced or you can drift into another lane and hit a motorcycle.

Every time you ride your motorcycle, you must be extra vigilant and stay mindful of your surroundings at all times. Although you have no way of knowing if the driver next to you is tired or had a few shots, staying alert can help you react to situations and avoid accidents.

It only takes a split second for your life to change. Remember: reckless drivers are everywhere. Even if you are the most cautious motorcycle rider who practices defensive driving, you can still encounter a negligent car driver on the road.