What Are the Most Frequent Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, resulting in severe injuries and significant financial burdens. Understanding the most common causes of these accidents can promote road safety and protect motorcycle riders’ rights. Below, the trusted personal injury attorneys at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. explore the different causes of motorcycle accidents and why it’s crucial to retain a personal injury attorney to help you file an accident claim.

What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle crashes can be some of the most devastating motor vehicle accidents because riders are unprotected from many driving risks. Helmets and protective clothing only provide certain protection, especially when confronted with a vehicle larger than a human. Here are five of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents. 

• Distracted Driving

One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is distracted driving. When drivers engage in activities like texting, talking on the phone, eating, or using cell phones while driving, their attention is diverted from the road, increasing the risk of collisions with motorcycles. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, making them more susceptible to being overlooked by distracted drivers engaging in these activities. A personal injury attorney can hold negligent drivers accountable and help victims secure compensation for their injuries, medical bills, and other damages.

• Speeding

Motorcycles lack cars’ protective structure, making high-speed collisions particularly devastating. When drivers exceed the speed limit or fail to adjust their speed according to road conditions, they may not have enough time to react to motorcycles and avoid accidents. Skilled motorcycle accident attorneys can gather evidence, such as accident reconstructions and witness testimonies, to demonstrate that the at-fault driver’s speeding contributed to the accident and the resulting injuries.

• Lane Changes and Failure to Yield

Motorcycles can quickly go unnoticed in a vehicle’s blind spot, leading to dangerous side-swipe accidents, which can cause serious motorcycle accident injuries when drivers fail to check blind spots, properly signal before changing lanes, or fail to yield the right-of-way at intersections or when merging. A personal injury attorney experienced in motorcycle accident cases can investigate your car accident case and help victims establish liability.

• Impaired Driving

Impaired drivers have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced coordination, which increases the likelihood of accidents and poses a significant risk to motorcycle riders. An NYC car accident lawyer can help victims pursue compensation for their injuries and punitive damages to hold the at-fault party accountable for their reckless behavior.

• Hazardous Road Conditions

Poorly maintained roads, construction zones, potholes, debris, uneven surfaces or slippery conditions can all cause motorcycles to lose control, resulting in accidents and injuries. In cases where hazardous road conditions contribute to a motorcycle accident, a New York motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate the accident scene, gather evidence of negligence, and pursue claims against responsible parties, such as government agencies or construction companies.

Am I Eligible for Compensation Following a Motorcycle Accident?

Whether you are eligible for compensation following a motorcycle accident depends on many factors, including the specific circumstances, laws where the accident occurred, and the insurance companies or policies involved.

In many cases, you may be entitled to compensation if you were involved in a motorcycle accident caused by another party’s negligence or fault. This compensation can cover various damages, such as medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain, and suffering.

To determine your eligibility and the potential compensation you may be entitled to, consult with a car accident attorney specializing in motor vehicle accidents. They can assess the details of your case, consider the relevant laws and regulations, and provide you with specific advice based on your situation.

Speak With an Experienced New York Car Wreck Lawyer to Maximize Your Chance for Compensation

Motorcycle accidents can have life-altering consequences for riders, leading to significant physical, emotional, and financial hardships. By understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents and the importance of retaining a personal injury attorney from Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C., victims can take proactive steps to seek compensation for their injuries and protect their rights. 

If you or a loved one sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident, consult an experienced personal injury attorney who can provide the guidance and advocacy needed to navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact the New York City Car Accident Attorneys at SPBMCC Today

Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo, P.C. is a full-service personal injury law firm specializing in all personal injury areas, including car crashes, auto accidents, and motorcycle injuries. Our dedicated litigation support teams vigorously represent clients, including matters related to 9/11-related illness, personal injury, construction accidents,  premises liability, product liability, and firefighter law across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, and Suffolk counties, as well as New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with an attorney.