As a motorcyclist, you face certain risks that other drivers simply do not face. Primarily, you are more exposed to danger if you’re involved in a car accident than a motorist or motor vehicle passenger.
As a result, it’s important for motorcyclists to understand the types of accidents that occur most often. This can help you become a defensive rider. You may be able to avoid a crash by taking advantage of your knowledge. For example, one of the most common accidents – and the most dangerous – is known as a left-turn accident. Understanding how this accident type occurs could potentially save your life.
It happens on two-way roads
Certainly, there are left-turn accidents at intersections or in situations when the motorcycle is turning left. But the type of crash that poses the greatest risk often occurs on a two-way road. The motorcycle is driving in one direction and the car or truck is driving in the opposite direction. If neither vehicle was turning, they would simply pass each other without an issue. But maybe the driver of that car wants to make a left turn. They have to cross in front of the motorcycle to do so.
What this means is that the motorcyclist is then at the mercy of the driver of that other vehicle. They are trusting the driver to make the right judgment call about when to turn. But if the driver makes a mistake, perhaps because they don’t see the motorcycle or because they don’t realize how close it is, they could turn left directly into the path of that bike. As a motorcyclist, there may not be enough space to brake and avoid a collision. Swerving to the right is also impossible because that’s the direction that the turning vehicle is traveling. Swerving to the left can’t be done because that would take the motorcycle into the oncoming traffic lines. As a result, the ride has no real options to avoid this crash and could suffer severe injuries as a result.
What comes next?
If you have been injured in one of these crashes, you may be facing extensive medical bills, lost wages and a lot of other costs. Take the time to carefully look into all of the legal options you have, as you may be entitled to significant compensation at this time.