Motorcycle riders can be in a uniquely vulnerable position on the roadway. Additionally, they can be especially exposed to negligent and careless drivers. Motorcycle riders can be susceptible to inattentive drivers who fail to observe them, and it is important to keep in mind that motorcycles do not enjoy the same protections passenger vehicles afford. Unfortunately, statistics illustrate how dangerous the roadways can be for motorcycle riders.
In two-thirds of motorcycle accidents that involve another passenger vehicle, the driver of the passenger vehicle violated the motorcyclist’s right of way and caused the motorcycle accident. This is usually because a driver failing to closely observe the roadway and their surroundings may not see a motorcycle. The dangers to motorcyclists are of special concern at intersections; 70 percent of motorcycle accidents involving passenger vehicles occur at intersections.
Additionally, overall, motorcyclists are 26 times more likely to die in a motorcycle accident than those riding in a passenger vehicle, and they are 5 times more likely to be injured. When a motorcycle accident victim has suffered harm or family members have suffered the loss of a motorcycle accident victim, different legal options are available to help them through the physical, financial and emotional challenges they may suffer following a motorcycle accident.
Motorcycle accident victims and their families may be able to recover compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and wrongful death damages when harmed by a negligent driver. It is important for victims of motorcycle accidents to understand how these options can help them and remedies and resources available to them.
Source: Injury.findlaw.com, “Motorcycle Accidents: Overview,” Accessed May 7, 2017
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