Some of the common motorcycle accidents often involve cars turning left in front of bikes, lane changes into a motorcycle’s blind spot, and losing control on corners.
To avoid these, always watch for left-turning cars at intersections. It’s also advisable to stay out of other vehicles’ blind spots and slow down before taking corners.
All motorcyclists should wear bright colors, use reflective gear, and keep their headlights on during the day to be more visible.
If you or a loved one has been in such an accident, an Indiana motorcycle accident lawyer will guide you in seeking the compensation you deserve.
Crashes Caused by Other Vehicles Making a Left Turn
One of the most dangerous situations for motorcyclists is when a car makes a left turn in front of them. This often happens because the driver doesn’t see the motorcycle or misjudges its speed.
So, how do you stay safe in such a situation? Always watch for cars that might turn left, especially at intersections. Slow down and be ready to stop or swerve if needed.
Sometimes, drivers simply don’t notice motorcycles on the road. This is called “looked but failed to see,” and it’s a big problem.
To avoid these accidents, wear bright colors and use reflective gear. Always use your headlight, even during the day. Try to ride where other drivers can easily see you in their mirrors.
Taking corners too fast is a common mistake for motorcycle riders.
This can lead to losing control and crashing. The key to avoiding these accidents is to slow down before entering a turn. Practice proper cornering techniques and never ride faster than you feel comfortable.
When cars switch lanes without looking carefully, they might hit a motorcycle in their blind spot. As a rider, always be aware of the blind spots of vehicles around you.
Avoid riding in these areas for too long. Use your turn signals when changing lanes and check that drivers see you before moving over.
Reckless driving, like speeding or not following traffic rules, can cause serious accidents. This applies to both car drivers and motorcyclists.
Always follow traffic laws and ride defensively. Don’t assume other drivers will obey the rules – be prepared for unexpected moves from other road users.
While riding fast may be fun, it’s also dangerous, especially for motorcycles.
This is because high speeds make it harder to control your bike and react to surprises on the road. Always stick to the speed limit and slow down in bad weather or heavy traffic.
When motorcycle accidents occur, riders can suffer serious injuries due to the lack of protection compared to car drivers.
Some of the common injuries include:
Wearing proper safety gear like a DOT-approved helmet, sturdy jacket, pants, gloves, and boots can help reduce these injuries.
Here are some important ways to stay safe while riding:
In Indiana, motorcycle safety is a critical issue, reflected in the state’s alarming statistics. According to the 2022 Indiana Traffic Safety Report:
Intersections are danger zones for motorcyclists.
This is where many left-turn accidents happen. Always approach intersections with caution, even if you have the right of way. Watch for cars that might turn in front of you or run red lights.
Two-lane roads can be risky because there’s less room for error. Cars might try to pass in oncoming traffic lanes, putting motorcyclists at risk.
Stay alert for oncoming vehicles and be prepared to move to the side of the road if needed.
While freeways might seem safer due to the lack of intersections, they have their own risks.
High speeds, frequent lane changes, and merging traffic can all be dangerous for motorcyclists. Maintain a safe following distance and be extra careful when changing lanes or passing other vehicles.
Riding a motorcycle can be thrilling, but safety should always come first. If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, Blackburn Romey, Indiana motorcycle accident lawyers, will help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Call us at (260) 422-4400 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. Stay safe and ride responsibly!
Blackburn Romey founding partner Tom Blackburn graduated with honors receiving a degree from Indiana University at the Robert H. McKinney School of Law. Initiating his legal career in 1977, he has been active in practicing law and currently serves as a member of the Indiana State Bar Association on the Ethics and Advertising Committees, the American Bar Association, the American Association for Justice, as a board member at the Indiana Trial Lawyers Association, and as an appointed member of the Executive Committee for the State of Indiana for the National Trial Lawyers Association.
This page has been written, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our comprehensive editorial guidelines. This page was approved by Founding Partner, Tom Blackburn, who has more than 47 years of legal experience, including over 39 years specializing as a personal injury attorney.
