Motorcycle accidents can happen in many different ways. A motorcyclist could be rear-ended in traffic at a red light, for example. They could be struck when another driver merges into them on the interstate.
But what is the most common type of accident? It is a left-turn accident. Another driver seeking to make a left turn, either at an intersection or turning into a driveway, turns in front of the bike. The motorcyclist then hits the side of that vehicle or is forced to swerve into oncoming traffic in an effort to avoid a collision.
Why do these accidents happen?
There are a number of different factors to consider when looking at left-turn accidents. Some of them happen because of distracted driving or impaired driving.
But, much of the time, it is just that the driver makes the wrong judgment call. They think it is safe to turn, but the bike is approaching too quickly.
Drivers are often adamant that this means the motorcyclist must have been speeding. But what is actually happening in many cases is that the motorcycle is so small that it appears farther away than it really is. Drivers are used to looking at other large vehicles like passenger cars, pickup trucks and semi-trucks. They may think that they have plenty of space to turn in front of a motorcycle, when the truth is that it is going to close that distance very quickly.
Seeking appropriate compensation
A left-turn accident can be devastating for a motorcyclist, leading to severe and even life-altering injuries. Riders need to know how to seek financial compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, reduced earning capacity and much more.