Motorcycle Accidents

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

As mentioned, motorists in passenger vehicles are often to blame for motorcycle accidents even though there is a common misconception that says otherwise. What are drivers doing to cause motorcycle crashes, though? Some of the worst mistakes that drivers make that cause motorcycle accidents are:

• Improper left turns: When a motorist turns left without a green arrow, they need to check for cross traffic first. However, most drivers know to look for a car or truck, not a motorcycle. The smaller size and single headlight of a motorcycle are effectively invisible to a driver who isn’t paying enough attention.
• Blind lane changes: Similarly, sideswipe accidents can be caused by drivers who change lanes or merge without checking their blind spots properly for motorcyclists in adjacent lanes. Motorcyclists can help reduce this risk by wearing bright clothing or reflectors.
• Speeding and late braking: Speeding motorists need more time to come to a complete stop at lights and stop signs, which can spell disaster for motorcyclists who are in front of them.

Severe Injuries in Motorcycle Accident Claims

Due to the lack of protection around a motorcyclist, the injuries they suffer in accidents are often significantly worse than a motorist who is hurt in a similar crash. Some safety groups estimate that motorcyclists are up to 30 times more likely to be catastrophically injured in a crash compared to a motorist, and they might be up to 12 times more likely to suffer a fatality. Only a few examples of catastrophic motorcycle accident injuries are:

• Multiple broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Paralysis
• Road rash

Ways to Reduce Your Liability & Help Your Claim

You can help keep your liability low in a motorcycle accident by:

• Wearing a helmet: Use a motorcycle helmet that has been approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation for optimal protection while riding. If you are in a crash and you didn’t have a helmet on, then the insurance company will have an easier time blaming you for the severity of your head injuries.
• Never lane-splitting: Only California allows lane-splitting while riding a motorcycle. If you were lane-splitting along a highway in Mississippi and get sideswiped by a driver, then most of the liability might be placed on your shoulders.
• Always riding sober: Never drink and ride your motorcycle. Your reaction time will be ruined, and you might even struggle to stay balanced while in motion. Just don’t do it – don’t make Mama Justice worry for you!

Protecting the People is What We Do

Mama Justice is here to stand up to insurance companies, so you don’t have to. We know that you are going through enough just dealing with your injuries and damages. Don’t pile legal frustrations onto everything, too. Get us on your side by calling (888) 484-1476 and speaking with a motorcycle accident attorney in Tupelo about what happened.