Motorcycle Accidents at Intersections: How to Avoid Them
As motorcycles and vehicles approach intersections, all drivers should be aware of one another. Doing so can decrease the likelihood of an accident. They should also ensure their vehicles’ signals are working so that others know they intend to make a turn or stay straight through the intersection. Both operators can also employ defensive driving techniques.
If you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer to represent you after an accident, they can clarify how state law governs fot lauderdale motorcycle accidents lawyer at intersections and how to stay safe at one. They can also explain your rights and responsibilities and build a compelling case file that could lead to fair and appropriate financial recovery.
What You Need to Know About Motorcycle Accident Prevention at Intersections
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) urges motorcycle and vehicle operators to exercise care and caution as they approach, enter, and exit the intersection. Accordingly, it recommends the following:
- Do not allow anything to take your focus off the road.
- Remain aware of potential hazards at intersections.
- Slow down and use rear and side mirrors to scan the entire scene.
- Observe and obey all traffic signs, signals, and lights at the intersection.
- Be aware of any known or potential blind spots on your vehicle or bike.
- Maintain an appropriate distance between your car and the motorcycle.
The size of their bikes can also contribute to the road dangers for motorcyclists. Motorcycles are much smaller than passenger vehicles and can be harder to spot, especially at night. Vehicle drivers should scan the area surrounding intersections carefully. They should pay extra attention to the smaller bikes, using all available mirrors to do so.
What You Need to Know About Intersection Safety for Motorcyclists
Riding a motorcycle is a thrilling and exciting way to get around. Its ownership is also a responsibility. Because their smaller profile makes them harder to spot, some specific strategies motorcycle riders should adhere to at intersections include:
- Position your motorcycle for maximum visibility.
- Avoid tailgating a vehicle, which could put you in its blind spots.
- Try not to stand completely still while waiting for your turn.
- Wear brightly colored clothing and other protective gear.
- Stay aware of the vehicles and roads around you.
Do not race into the intersection as you approach it. Instead, consider letting the cars around you proceed first. A good rule of thumb for motorcyclists is to act, not to react. You should also avoid lane-splitting or otherwise veering outside your lane as you traverse the intersection.
Vehicles at Intersections and Motorcycle Accident Risks
Intersections can be dangerous places when not managed carefully. A vehicle can strike a motorcycle in multiple ways when making its way through an intersection. A collision can occur:
- When the vehicle turns into an intersection
- When the motorcycle turns into the intersection
- When either vehicle’s driver fails to see the other
- When the motorcycle is in the vehicle’s blind spot
- When the motorcycle is tailgating too closely
- When either vehicle fails to signal its intention
- When either vehicle ignores stoplights or turn arrows
Car versus bike accidents can also lead to costly property damage and significant expenses and losses. Exercising normal or extra caution can avoid collisions and keep the drivers and passengers of both vehicles safe.
The Financial Impact of Ignoring Motorcycle Intersection Safety Strategies
Motorcycle accidents can cost billions of dollars yearly. These costs can include loss of productivity when injured parties cannot work until they complete their recovery. It can also include a wide range of medical bills until the injured party reaches maximum medical improvement (MMI).
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident, you could recover your accident costs from the negligent party that caused the collision.
How to Prove Financial Liability After a Motorcycle Accident in an Intersection
The elements of negligence—duty of care, breach of duty, causation, and damages—define the at-fault party in a Miami motorcycle accident lawyer and allow the injured party to recover damages. If both parties share liability, these elements allow negligence to be accurately apportioned.
This typically means building a comprehensive case file. It can include your police report that describes each party’s actions at the intersection. Your medical records and bills can describe your injuries and their cause and costs. It can also include bills and estimates for repairing or replacing your car or bike, check stubs, or other proof of your lost income.
Learn More About Motorcycle Safety at Intersections
Motorcycle intersection crashes can be dangerous and deadly. Severe injuries can result that take months or years to recover from. Knowing how to stay safe can help you avoid a costly collision. If you or someone you love recently suffered injuries in an accident, our law firm can help you recover appropriate damages. If you lost a loved one in a fatal motorcycle crash, our wrongful death attorneys can assist you in recovering any damages your family is eligible for. Contact the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato at (954) 633-8270 to get your free case review today.
