Representing Bay Area Clients
In Personal Injury Claims Since 1978

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Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents, like all accidents involving motor vehicles, can be caused by a number of different factors. While an accident can be the fault of the motorcycle driver, many times other drivers cause accidents involving motorcycles. Because of a motorcycle’s relatively small size, many drivers of passenger cars and trucks do not see motorcyclists. Even if they check their mirrors before changing lanes or turning, the motorcycle may be in the car’s blind spot, and an accident may result. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, contact [nap_names id=”FIRM-NAME-3″] in Oakland, CA ]], today to schedule a consultation with an attorney to talk about your legal options for recovery.

Other motorists

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that over half of motorcycle accident fatalities involved at least one other motor vehicle. In multiple-vehicle motorcycle crashes, cyclists are typically hit from the front; in a little less than half of crashes, the vehicle that struck the motorcycle was making a left turn while the motorcycle was going straight, passing or overtaking the vehicle.

Speeding and reckless driving

Another cause of motorcycle accidents is speeding or reckless driving by either the motorcyclist or driver of an automobile or other vehicle. Motorcyclists who ride “supersport” cycles, which are consumer versions of racing motorcycles and have powerful engines, may try to reach high speeds. Both car drivers and motorcycle riders can be found negligent if they drive aggressively, speed, do not pay attention or drive too close to the vehicle in front of them.

Alcohol use

Alcohol is a contributing factor in many fatal motor vehicle accidents, including motorcycle crashes. Many fatally injured motorcyclists are legally intoxicated.

Unsafe road conditions

Dangerous road conditions are a cause of many automobile and motorcycle accidents. Conditions such as slick surfaces, ridges in the pavement, fluid spills and debris on the road can be even more dangerous for motorcycles than cars because of their small size and lessened ability to respond to these conditions. The design of a motorcycle, with two wheels rather than four wheels, makes it less stable than cars and trucks. In addition, road barriers such as guardrails that are designed to retain cars can be deadly if a motorcyclist collides with them. Because of their small size and lack of enclosure, crashing into a fixed object can be more hazardous for motorcycles than other motor vehicles.

Contact a personal injury lawyer

If you or a family member was injured in a motorcycle accident, you may have questions about your legal options. An experienced personal injury attorney at [nap_names id=”FIRM-NAME-3″] in Oakland, CA can review your situation and evaluate your options.

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents

Q: I have been in a motor vehicle accident. Should I go to a doctor?

A: Yes. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident, you should see a doctor right away. First, you should see a doctor for your own well-being. You likely will not be able to discern the extent of your injuries yourself. An initially small ache could actually be something significant, but only a doctor can tell you for sure. Furthermore, if you decide to bring a legal claim against the at-fault driver or another party, you will need documentation of your injuries and any treatment you received.

Q: Do I have to go to court if I want to recover monetary damages?

A: It depends. Your case may settle before your attorney even files a formal lawsuit, or it may go all the way to a trial and a jury verdict. The majority of legal actions are settled before they get to trial, but what happens in your case depends on the facts, the law and the parties involved.

Representing Bay Area Clients In Personal Injury Claims Since 1978