Many people ride motorcycles because it’s thought of as fun and also offers a sense of freedom. Unfortunately, riding a motorcycle involves the risk of getting into an accident due to their smaller size, as opposed to other motor vehicles. Other drivers fail to see motorcycles due to weather conditions, blind spots, and distracted driving – all of which can lead to devastating consequences for motorcyclists.
Understanding why these accidents occur, the associated dangers, and how to mitigate the risks is crucial for both motorcyclists and car drivers alike. Below we look at why drivers often miss motorcycles, the dangers of distracted driving, how to prevent motorcycle crashes, and how a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer can fight alongside you in the pursuit of justice.
Why Drivers Miss Motorcycles Often
Motorcycles are often overlooked by drivers in traffic for a variety of reasons. These elements can increase the likelihood of an accident and are frequently combined:
- Size and shape — Compared to cars and trucks, motorcycles are substantially smaller in size. They are more difficult to spot due to their smaller profile, particularly in blind spots or among larger cars.
- Speed and maneuverability — Motorcycles are incredibly agile and have a faster rate of acceleration and deceleration than cars. Car drivers may misjudge their speed and proximity, which could result in an accident and injuries if a car driver attempts a maneuver while a motorcycle is close by.
- Camouflage — Motorcycles with dark colors are much more difficult to identify, especially when contrasted with a dark background. Additionally, motorcyclists wearing dark clothing can make it harder to see, particularly at night or in dimly lit areas.
- Distracted driving — This is arguably the most prominent reason why drivers miss motorcycles on the road. We cover distracted driving in more detail below.
Dangers of Distracted Driving Today
These days, distracted driving is on the rise, and it creates a substantial risk of accidents on the road, particularly motorcycle accidents. Using mobile phones while driving is one of the primary reasons for distracted driving and accidents. According to state highway officials and distracted driving statistics, a traffic accident occurs every 44 seconds in Florida, with one in seven of them being due to distracted driving.
The dangers of distracted driving can be catastrophic, resulting in serious injuries and even death. Texting, looking at GPS, tending to children in the back seat, and eating often cause drivers to lose focus on other vehicles on the road, especially motorcycles. Just one split second of distracted driving can result in a failure to see a motorcycle, particularly in blind spots.
Motorcycle Accidents in Busy Traffic
The likelihood that drivers will miss motorcycles is greatly increased in heavy traffic. Drivers must constantly adjust their attention due to the constant changes in traffic flow, which increases the likelihood that a motorcycle will be missed, especially in crowded traffic areas or during rush hour.
Blind spots are made worse by cars being so close to one another in congested traffic. Trucks and buses are examples of large vehicles that can totally block motorcycles from other drivers’ view when they are not paying enough attention to their surroundings. Motorcycle riders are especially at risk when changing lanes in dense traffic because drivers may not fully check their blind spots.
How a Motorcycle Lawyer Helps
Motorcyclists have the right to share the road with other drivers. When a motorcycle is involved in a traffic accident due to another driver’s negligence, they need to be held accountable for injuries and damages. Having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney by your side fighting for your rights is your best bet in obtaining the results you deserve.
Preventing Motorcycle Crashes on Roads
It is up to every driver on the road to work together to prevent motorcycle accidents. Here is what drivers can do to help prevent motorcycle crashes on the roads:
- Refrain from distracted driving. When driving, avoid using your phone to text or find directions. Both texting and using a cell phone in your hand while operating a motor vehicle are prohibited in Florida.
- Be mindful of motorcycle riders’ personal space. Motorcycle riders require adequate space on the road. Drivers should never try to share lanes with motorcycles, stay at a safe distance, and refrain from tailgating.
- Be prepared for motorcycles. Even if you don’t see motorcycles right away, remind yourself to expect them to be sharing the road. When approaching intersections, actively search for smaller cars in your blind spots and mirrors.
- Use your turn signals. Give a clear and early indication that you intend to turn. This provides motorcycle riders with enough reaction time to your driving.
- At intersections, use extra caution. Motorcyclists are especially at risk at intersections. Always give way when necessary and look twice for motorcycles before moving forward.
Have you been involved in a motorcycle accident? If so, contact Lipinski Law for top-notch representation and attention to your case. With over a decade of experience, the Lipinski Law team is tough, compassionate, and knowledgeable, and will fight diligently for motorcyclists’ rights.
