Drivers of motor vehicles are responsible for two-thirds of motorcycle accidents. This means that motorists are responsible for the majority of motorcycle accidents. This may cause some motorists to wonder what they can do to help keep motorcyclists safe. The smaller nature of motorcycles, as well as the habit of motorists to look for other passenger vehicles instead of motorcycles, can result in motorcycles being easily missed by motorists which can ultimately result in motorcycle accidents and injuries to motorcycle riders.
As this blog has discussed before, drivers of motor vehicles may be not be familiar with all of the challenges motorcyclists face on the roadways which means that drivers need to ensure they are aware of their surroundings at all times to help keep motorcycle riders safe. Places to be especially aware of motorcycles on the roadways include highways and at intersections.
The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles warns drivers that they are more likely to be involved in a motorcycle accident when the motorist is turning left in front of the motorcycle rider; the motorcyclist is in the motorist’s blind spot; hazardous road conditions are present, making the roadway more treacherous for motorcycle riders who may need to unexpectedly take evasive action; or the motorists view of the motorcycle is obstructed because of a larger vehicle blocking the view. It is important for motorists to exercise due care on the roadways to remain alert for motorcycle riders.
Motorcycle accidents can result in serious and debilitating injuries to motorcyclists. When a motorcycle rider has suffered a motorcycle accident and motorcycle accident injuries at the hand of a negligent driver, it is important for motorcyclists to be familiar with their legal rights and options to help them receive compensation and focus on recovering physically, and emotionally and financially from the harm suffered.
Source: Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles, “Tips for Sharing the Road,” Accessed May 4, 2015
