Motorcycle Accidents

DISTRACTED DRIVERS DON’T SEE MOTORCYCLES IN TIME

Distracted driving is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents, and this trend is growing due to the proliferation of smart phones, social media and in-vehicle infotainment systems. Motorists are not accustomed to seeing motorcycles on the road; safe, attentive driving re quires constant scanning of the road ahead for changes in traffic patterns or slowdowns, objects in the road, and smaller vehicles such as motorcycles. Drivers who only occasionally glance up from their phones are likely to miss seeing a motorcyclist in time to avoid a collision.

In addition to negligent or distracted driving in general, common causes of Central Florida motorcycle accidents include:

• Making a left turn across the path of an approaching motorcycle

• Failing to signal before making a turn or lane change

• Failing to check blind spots before turning or changing lanes

• Crowding a motorcyclist out of the lane

SAFE RIDING CAN AVOID SOME MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS, BUT NOT ALL

Motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable to serious injury or death in a crash with a larger, heavier car or truck. Motorcycles offer little to no protection to the rider in the event of an impact. Experienced riders know their bike’s handling and limitations and can often react quickly in response to an unexpected or risky maneuver by another vehicle driver. In addition, taking the following steps can help avoid accidents or serious injury in the case of an impact:

• Wear a DOT-approved helmet at all times

• Wear protective gloves and clothing such as riding leathers

• Ride with headlamp on at all times

• Signal intentions before making traffic maneuvers

• Drive defensively; leave space between you and other drivers

Unfortunately, the most careful riding in the world can’t always protect you from another driver’s reckless, aggressive, negligent or distracted driving. In the event of an accident, insurance companies and jurors are often quick to blame the biker for riding irresponsibly. Jeanne Reynaud, an experienced personal injury attorney, can help you build a strong case that clearly shows the facts of the accident and the other driver’s negligence. 

CALL OUR EXPERIENCED AND EFFECTIVE MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

For strong, effective help after a motorcycle accident, call the Central Florida law office of Jeanne Reynaud at (833) 306-9227 for a no-cost confidential consultation with an experienced and successful personal injury attorney.