Motorcycles are an exhilarating way to travel. However, due to the exposed nature of a motorcycle rider, there are many scenarios that could put the rider in danger. As a result, a serious motorcycle accident is more likely to cause fatalities than a serious car accident. If you or a family member was severely injured in a motorcycle accident, you should consult with an experienced Chester motorcycle accident lawyer today.
The Reiff Law Firm can help you file a personal injury claim against a negligent driver that caused your motorcycle accident. Our legal team possesses decades of legal experience handling a plethora of personal injury lawsuits, and we will use this knowledge to represent you. To schedule a free legal consultation to discuss your claim, call The Reiff Law Firm at (215) 709-6940.
7 Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle crashes can be the result of several different circumstances. For example, a driver may not be aware of a motorcyclist that is within their blind spot and could easily switch lanes and strike that person. Many motorcycle accidents will result in the victim being left with long-term or even permanent injuries. That is why it is important to understand the common circumstances that can lead to a motorcycle accident.
Speeding
Whether you are operating a motorcycle, a passenger vehicle, or a commercial truck, excessive speeding is a good way to end up in an accident. Speeding is especially dangerous for motorcycle riders because if another vehicle strikes them at a high rate of speed, the rider can be catapulted from their bike. Even a collision at a low speed can cause a rider to suffer serious injuries.
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
Reckless drivers who abuse alcohol or drugs while driving are often slow to react and sometimes are noticeable due to excessive swerving or other erratic behavior. Unfortunately, some drivers may be able to hide their inebriation until they suddenly cause a dangerous accident.
Poor Road Conditions
Potholes, blown out tires, and other road debris is a lot more dangerous to a person on a motorcycle than the driver of a passenger vehicle. Poorly paved roads or deep potholes can cause a motorcyclist to lose control of their vehicle and possibly hit another car or be thrown from the vehicle.
Open Car Doors
There are several roads in Chester and across Pennsylvania that are very tight and that require careful maneuvering. When opening a car door on a small road, many drivers will at least check their mirrors to ensure no vehicles are approaching. However, some drivers may simply open their doors without checking and cause a motorcycle rider to suffer a serious injury.
A motorcyclist could end up with severe lacerations if they unexpectedly drive into a door and end up making contact with a car’s windows.
Motorcycle Malfunction
Defective vehicle parts are constantly being recalled due to the danger they pose. Unfortunately, some people may suffer a serious injury caused by a defective motorcycle part before it is recalled. Under these circumstances, the manufacturer of the defective product would be liable for your injuries and possibly the injuries of other drivers involved in the accident.
Lane Splitting
Occasionally you will see a motorcycle rider that will drive between two lanes to avoid excessive traffic. This is known as lane splitting, and it is extremely dangerous. You cannot predict when another driver will switch lanes and if you are caught in the middle when they do you could be crushed between two cars. If it is determined that you were partly responsible for causing yourself an injury, this can affect your personal injury claim.
Left Turn Accidents
Left turn accidents are one of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Some drivers may not expect a motorcycle to be in that particular area or could believe they have the right of way and end up seriously injuring a motorcyclist.
There are several other causes of motorcycle accidents that are not listed in this article. If you suffered from any type of motorcycle accident, our firm is ready to fight for you.
Our Chester, PA Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help You File a Personal Injury Claim
If you were the victim of a catastrophic motorcycle accident, you should contact an experienced Chester motorcycle accident attorney. The Reiff Law Firm understands the difficulty of rebuilding your life after a serious accident, and we are here to stand with you. Our firm will invest in your potential case, and we will not request payment unless we obtain the legal outcome that you deserve. To schedule a free legal consultation, call The Reiff Law Firm at (215) 709-6940.