Getting out on the open road and enjoying the thrill of riding is one of the best feelings in the world, and that’s why motorcycle riders are so passionate about it.
However, as fun as it can be, riders also know that it can be quite dangerous. When a motorcycle is in an accident with another vehicle, even a small car, it can often spell disaster for the motorcyclist. Riders can suffer some severe injuries, and in some cases, they could even die. They do not have much in the way of protection. In those cases when the accident occurs because of someone else’s negligence, the victim or a surviving family member can seek compensation for the injuries and losses.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
Most motorcyclists out there realize just how dangerous riding can be, and they take great pains to ensure their safety on the road. They buy the quality helmets and gear they need, and they make sure their bike receives proper maintenance. They also make sure they are practicing safe driving habits and that they are always paying attention to the road and everything that’s going on around them.
Still, as much care as the motorcyclist might take, there are other drivers out there who are negligent and who don’t pay attention to those on bikes. Some of the most common types of accidents include head-on collisions and speeding. Left-turn collisions are a large problem as well. Often, a vehicle that makes a left turn is not looking in the mirror to check for a bike that might be coming up on their left. This generally happens at intersections, but it can happen when someone is turning into a parking lot or a driveway.
Sometimes, the other drivers are operating their vehicle while under the influence of drugs and alcohol. This causes their reaction time to slow, and they may not even realize that there is a motorcycle on the road near them. Naturally, this is extremely dangerous. Distracted drivers, such as those who are on their phones, is another large problem.
Sometimes, debris in the roadway is the actual cause of the accident. If something falls from another vehicle and into the path of the motorcycle, it can be difficult to avoid hitting it. An accident such as this could cause the motorcycle to have to veer into another lane, or it could cause them to spill. Either way, the results can be catastrophic.
If you or someone that you care for has suffered in one of these types of accident, then it’s time to speak with motorcycle accident lawyers about the next steps you should take.
What Should You Do?
In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, you will want to make sure that you speak with motorcycle accident attorneys right away. You also want to make sure that you start to gather as much evidence as possible. If you are unable to do this, you can have someone else in your family or circle of friends help. Make sure that you get photos of the crash site as well as the damage to your motorcycle and your injuries. Get information from witnesses so you can contact them later. File a police report as well, as this can make a big difference in the case.
Your motorcycle accident attorneys should be able to help you with all of these things and more. They can look at your situation and make sure that you have a case, and they will be able to determine the negligent party. Find a Houston motorcycle accident attorney with experience in the field.
Resource: http://www.alllaw.com/articles/nolo/auto-accident/factors-your-motorcycle-accident-insurance-claim.html
