Although motorcycle accidents do not commonly occur compared to other vehicle-related accidents, they are more likely to lead to catastrophic injury or even death. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 56 percent of collisions involving motorcycles and other motor vehicles result in fatalities since cars and other vehicles offer more protection and safety features compared to motorcycles.
The following are the most causes of motorcycle accidents involving a car:
Driver negligence – All motorists have a duty to follow the traffic laws and operate their vehicles in a safe manner. When a driver fails to uphold this duty, they place everyone around them in danger. Common examples of driver negligence include distracted driving (i.e., texting while driving), drunk/drugged driving, fatigued driving, speeding, and ignoring traffic signals and signs.
Head-on collisions – In 78 percent of accidents involving motorcycles and other vehicles are caused by cars striking the motorcycle from the front, which is known as a “head-on collision.” This type of crash often results in the motorcyclist’s death.
Cars turning left – When a car makes a left turn, it often hits a motorcycle when the biker is passing the vehicle, traveling straight through an intersection, or attempting to overtake the vehicle. Motorcycle accidents caused by cars making left-hand turns account for 42 percent of motorcycle-car crashes.
Blind spots – Although cars are equipped with rearview and side mirrors, there are many blind spots surrounding these vehicles. When a motorcycle changes lanes or attempts to pass a car, it is not uncommon for a driver to make a sudden lane change without signaling, which gives motorcyclists an extremely small window to react.
Click here to read a success story: After a Motorcycle Crash with a Negligent Driver, Former Client Finds Success with Carlson & Dumeer, LLC.
If you or a loved one suffered a serious injury in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver in Hartford, CT, contact Carlson & Dumeer, LLC today at (877) 795-5594 for a free initial consultation. Get more than two decades of experience on your side!