Motorcycle operators face numerous dangers on the roads, many of which lead to devastating motorcycle crashes. While some risks are common to both motorcycles and passenger vehicles, others are unique to motorcyclists. With a smaller visual profile, motorcycles are harder to spot, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
Additionally, motorcyclists face a significantly higher risk of serious injury or death in a collision, with a 28-times greater risk of fatality compared to passenger car occupants. Alarmingly, recent statistics reveal that 2020 saw the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities since the creation of the Fatality Analysis Reporting System (FARS) in 1975, marking a troubling double-digit increase from the previous year.
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The most common causes of motorcycle accidents
We have witnessed the devastating effects of motorcycle accidents in Florida. It is important for motorcycle operators to know the causes of motorcycle crashes and how they can reduce or eliminate risk. This blog will examine the most common causes of motorcycle crashes and what you should do if your loved one or yourself is involved in an accident.Car Doors
A car door opening directly in front of a motorcycle may not give the motorcyclist any time to avoid a collision. In such situations, accidents are unavoidable. Open car doors are still one of the main causes of motorcycle accidents, despite awareness campaigns.Alcohol, speeding and reckless driving
Reckless driving is the cause of these three types of motorcycle accidents. It is important to determine who is at fault for the accident (the motorist or motorcyclist). Once you’ve proven reckless driving, it is easy to prove negligence. Alcohol / Drugs: Driving a motorcycle while under the influence is extremely dangerous (and illegal). Motorcycle riders are more likely to be involved in fatal alcohol-related crashes than drivers of passenger cars, light trucks or large trucks. Speeding: Any crash’s severity increases with speed. At higher speeds, airbags and belts are less effective. Helmets: Not wearing a helmet can lead to serious brain injuries or death. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Helmets can prevent fatalities for motorcycle riders by 37 percent and 41 percent in motorcycle passenger cases.” A helmet could have saved 37 motorcyclists for every 100 motorcycle accidents that were fatal because the driver was not wearing one. The NHTSA recommends that all motorcycle operators use a helmet which meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 218 of the U.S. Department of Transportation.Head-On Collisions
A Head-on collisions between a car and motorcycle can happen when the vehicle leaves its lane to travel “head-on” in front of another vehicle. Head-on collisions are a rare event (only 2% of vehicle collisions), but they cause a large number of fatalities and serious injuries.Lane Splitting in Florida
The practice of lane splitting, which involves riding a motorbike between lanes with slow-moving traffic or traffic that has stopped, is still a hot topic. Although states such as California permit lane splitting, and motorcycle advocacy groups like the American Motorcyclist Association argue that the practice can reduce the risk of rear-end collisions for motorcyclists, it is still illegal in Florida. Florida motorcycle riders must adhere to the same traffic rules as other drivers, which includes staying in a single lane. Violations of these laws may result in fines or other penalties. Florida road users should prioritize safety, and follow state-specific laws.Lane Switching
Lane switching accidents occur when drivers fail to see motorcycles. Some drivers only glance at the mirror briefly before changing lanes. It can be dangerous if the vehicle has a blind area, which is an area not visible from the mirrors. Motorcycles are more susceptible to being in blind spots, and then being hit by vehicles that change lanes or switch lanes. The risk of collisions with these drivers can be reduced by observing signs of a driver turning and either speeding or slowing down in order to move out of their blind spot.Weather & Seasons
Few accidents can be attributed to “Mother Nature” or an “Act of God”. Motorcyclists, just like pilots, should plan their trips or commutes, and check the weather along the way. A city can be held liable in rare cases for failing to salt the roads within a reasonable period of time.Sudden Stops
All of us have encountered suddenly stopped traffic in fast-moving highways. Motorcycle drivers are not more likely to be involved in a collision than passenger vehicle drivers. They can, however, be deadly. Motorcycles do not have seat belts. A sudden stop could cause the motorcyclists to fall from their bikes, either into another car or into traffic.Inattention & Lack of Experience in Florida
Motorcyclists may not be adequately prepared for the hazards they will face on Florida’s roads by practicing in a parking area. Many riders are unaware of the dangers and challenges that they could face. Training courses such as the Florida Rider Training Program provide riders with essential skills and knowledge. However, they might not prepare them for every scenario. These courses may even give riders a false feeling of confidence in some cases. Motorcyclists are at a higher risk of injury if they become distracted or inattentive. Allowing the mind to wander, even if a motorcyclist is not actively distracted from devices or external factors can have serious consequences. In situations where seconds count, a lack of defensive driving can reduce reaction times. All motorcyclists in Florida must be vigilant and prioritize safety.Left-Turn Accidents
All motorists are subject to the left-turn law, including motorcyclists. When drivers of passenger cars fail to see motorcyclists approaching a crosswalk, they can be in a failure-to-yield scenario. Motorcyclists are at risk of death in collisions that occur at intersections.Corner-Turning Accidents
Motorcyclists who enter a corner too quickly can lose control of their bike and fall off. Sometimes, these accidents happen when a motorcyclist rides with a group. They may be riding beyond their comfort level in order to keep up. Other motorcyclists may also lose control. Avoiding accidents due to loss of control on corners is possible by riding a motorcycle at an appropriate speed. It is important to enter a corner at a safe pace. A good rule is to ride around corners and turns “slow in fast out”.Dangerous Road Conditions
A motorcyclist may be killed by road conditions that are not problematic for a car. When government agencies are informed of hazards, they have a duty to act. The following are examples of dangerous road conditions:- In construction zones, it is illegal to cover up speed limit signs
- Guardrails are not present in the vehicle
- Poor lighting
- Road construction debris
- Traffic signals that are not working
- Cracks
- Uneven pavement
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Motorcycle Defects
When an accident results in serious injuries, damages can be significant. Motorcycle defect cases can be just as complex and difficult to handle as road defect cases and require an attorney with experience and knowledge. Example – Eimers v. Honda Motor Co., Ltd. A 27-year old man became quadriplegic in a case that occurred years ago due to a defect in his kickstand, which caused the bike to spin uncontrollably during a corner. Honda, the motorcycle manufacturer, refused to settle with him. A jury awarded him $19.8M for his injuries.Physical and Emotional Impairment
Focus and engagement are required to operate a motorcycle. It is not safe to daydream or let your mind wander. Motorcyclists can be distracted, lose focus and adopt a hazardous attitude that could lead to an accident. This includes riding when angry, emotionally upset, tired, or drowsy. The IMSAFE check-list for the aviation industry can be used by motorcycle operators to determine their fitness before hopping onto a bike. The Mnemonic for this phrase is:- I: Illness
- M: Medication
- S: Stress
- A: Alcohol
- F: Fatigue
- E: Emotion
What Should You Do if You’re Injured After a Motorcycle Crash?
If you are injured in one of many motorcycle crashes, whether as the motorcyclist or a passenger, there are two crucial steps you should take:- Get Medical Care Immediately: Prioritize your health and safety by seeking medical attention as soon as possible.
- Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney: Speak with an attorney promptly to secure important evidence, obtain the police report, document damages, negotiate a fair settlement, and, if necessary, represent your case in court.
Injuries from Motorcycle Crashes You Can Include in Your Claim
Motorcycle crashes often result in severe injuries with life-altering consequences. These injuries can form the basis of a personal injury claim and include:- Traumatic Brain Injury: Brain injuries can cause fatigue, dizziness, personality changes, hearing issues, and other far-reaching effects, ranging from mild to severe.
- Spinal Cord Injury: Spinal injuries are among the most serious, potentially leading to paralysis if nerve function is lost below the injury site.
- Broken Bones: Common in motorcycle crashes, fractures and breaks often affect the pelvis, fibula, tibia, or other lower extremities.
- Road Rash: Falling off a motorcycle can result in painful abrasions, often accompanied by bleeding or infection.
Types of Damages in Motorcycle Crashes
In motorcycle crashes, you can receive compensation for various damages, such as:- Medical Expenses: Hospitalization, diagnostic imaging procedures, surgery, physical therapy, ambulance transport, and emergency room care.
- Lost Earnings: Compensation for income lost due to time off work.
- Future Earning Potential Lost: Damages for reduced ability to earn in the future due to injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the crash.
Why Hire an Attorney After a Motorcycle Crash?
A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the justice you deserve after a motorcycle crash. Consulting a lawyer promptly increases your chances of securing fair compensation. An experienced attorney will review your case, explain your options, and guide you through the legal process to ensure you receive the maximum damages you’re entitled to.Feel Free To Schedule A Consultation
Contact Bonardi & Uzdavinis without delay to arrange a FREE consultation.
