Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Nothing compares to the freedom of the open road on a motorcycle. Unfortunately, few motor vehicle accidents result in as many fatalities and severe injuries as those involving motorcycles.
Common causes of these accidents involve another vehicle, rider error, mechanical issues, and road or weather conditions. Because motorcyclists are so vulnerable, they must always remain vigilant while on the road.
A North Carolina motorcycle accident lawyer at Riddle & Brantley can help you make it through this difficult time. Call 1-800-525-7111 today to discuss your claim with our experienced legal team and let us get you back on the road to recovery.
Remember, there are no upfront costs and we don’t get paid unless you do. If you don’t receive compensation, you won’t pay any attorney fees. It’s as simple as that.
Call 1-800-525-7111 and let’s review your claim.
Motorcycle Accident Causes in North Carolina
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
Left-Hand Turns
A car making a left-hand turn hits a motorcycle. This is the most common cause of motorcycle accidents. It usually happens when the driver does not see the bike or cannot tell how fast it is traveling. The car hits the motorcycle as it heads through the intersection, or as the motorcyclist is trying to pass.
Inexperienced Riders
Riding a motorcycle takes skill and practice. Inexperienced riders can get themselves into dangerous situations that more seasoned riders might avoid.
Lane Splitting
“Lane splitting” is not strictly illegal in North Carolina, as it is in many states, but the practice is strongly discouraged. It occurs during traffic jams when motorcyclists start weaving in and out of lanes. Motorists do not expect motorcyclists to pass by in slow-moving traffic. The car then forces the rider into oncoming traffic.
Unsafe Lane Changes
Drivers who fail to signal when changing lanes or do not see a motorcyclist may collide with the motorcycle.
Blind Spot Collisions
Many crashes between cars and motorcycles happen simply because the driver did not see the rider. These blind spot collisions frequently occur at intersections.
Car Doors Opening
Occupants opening the doors of parked vehicles seldom check to see if anything is in their way. The result is a dangerous situation for motorcyclists.
Speeding
Speeding contributes to many accidents, whether on the part of a driver, the motorcyclist, or both. Either can quickly lose control of their vehicle, with serious results.
Drunk Driving
Driving under the influence is another major factor in motor vehicle crashes. Even one drink may cause impairment.
Mechanical Error
Defective parts or products may have contributed to the crash. The manufacturer, dealer, or repair facility may be held liable.
Bad Road Conditions
Bad road conditions, such as uneven pavement or debris, might not cause significant issues for other types of motor vehicles. For a motorcyclist, however, it can be treacherous. Because motorcycles are less stable than cars or trucks, riders can easily lose control.
Inclement Weather
Strong winds destabilize motorcycles even more than usual. They also lead to hazardous road conditions, as debris falls into the street. Rain and ice cause problems with slipping, while rain and fog affect visibility.
Common Motorcycle Injuries
Many motorcycle injuries are considered catastrophic. That means the person will suffer permanent damage. Common motorcycle injuries include:
- Bone fractures
- Internal organ damage
- Loss of limbs
- Cuts and scrapes, including “road rash”
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
Many motorcycle accidents prove fatal. Under these circumstances, family members may file a wrongful death lawsuit against the party responsible for the death.
Our Results for Motorcycle Accident Victims
Since 2000 alone, we’ve recovered more than $600 million for injured victims (see disclaimer below). We’re proud of our results and would love to help you if we can.
In one recent case, our client was a guest passenger on a motorcycle when the defendant allegedly lost control in an S-turn, causing the motorcycle to roll over several times. She suffered a traumatic brain injury, memory loss, multiple fractures to the right eye, sternum, and back.
With our attorneys on the case, the claim settled for all potential insurance coverage, for a total of $1,050,000 prior to suit being filed (see disclaimer below).
Contact Our Team of North Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
If you or someone you know was injured in a motorcycle accident because of another party’s negligence, contact our personal injury lawyers at Riddle & Brantley today.
“Riddle & Brantley found me all the available money from the insurance companies.”
–David H., Riddle & Brantley client
For a FREE, no-obligation consultation concerning a potential motorcycle accident claim, call 1-800-525-7111 or complete the fast and easy form below. There are no attorney fees unless we win.
We fight so you receive the justice you deserve. Justice Counts for North Carolinians.
*Disclaimer: The results mentioned are intended to illustrate the type of cases handled by the firm. These results do not guarantee a similar outcome, and they should not be construed to constitute a promise or guarantee of a particular result in any particular case. Every case is different, and the outcome of any case depends upon a variety of factors unique to that case.