Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Southlake
No one wants to think about the possibility of an accident while behind the handlebars of their motorcycle. However, motorcycles are high-risk vehicles, and accidents happen every day. A large percentage of riders are severely injured or even die in crashes. These experiences are traumatic and can take a serious toll on the rider’s physical, emotional, and financial health.
As a result, it is important for riders to be aware of the risk factors when they are on the road to protect themselves and their passengers. While it is essential to be as safe as possible, motorcyclists are often not at fault. When you are in a motorcycle accident due to a negligent driver, you may be eligible for financial compensation. A skilled attorney who is familiar with the common causes of motorcycle accidents in Southlake could help get you the money you deserve.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
There are many reasons for motorcycle accidents in Southlake.
Speeding
Speeding increases the likelihood of getting into a crash due to a lack of control, especially when navigating curves.
Failure To Yield
This is often due to impatient or inattentive drivers. Failure to yield accidents occur at intersections where a motorist or rider does not properly merge with the other vehicles, causing them to collide with each other.
Poor Road Conditions
Icy roads, potholes, and abrupt edges are examples of poor road conditions that cause motorcyclists to lose control and crash.
Driving Under the Influence
Alcohol and drugs affect a person’s perception and attention to things around them and can have severe consequences.
Blind Spots
Motorcycles are more difficult to see due to the compact nature of the vehicle and, therefore, have a higher chance of being in a car’s blind spot.
Following Too Closely
Drivers often follow motorcycles too closely because they underestimate the amount of space needed between them, increasing the chances of a rear-end collision.
Distracted Driving
Using one’s phone is a common example of distracted driving that causes many accidents. Distractions can also include eating, arguing with vehicle passengers, and falling asleep at the wheel.
Possible Damages After a Motorcycle Accident
When someone is hurt in an accident, it is possible to hold the negligent party responsible for the losses incurred as a result of the crash. The injured party must show that a defendant is liable by proving four factors:
- The driver owed a genuine duty of care to the plaintiff
- The driver violated that duty
- The driver’s conduct caused the person’s injuries
- The plaintiff endured legally recognized injuries as a result
There are two main types of damages that people seek after getting into a vehicle collision.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are “tangible” in that there are typically receipts or monetary amounts documenting the costs of their losses. Some examples include medical bills, lost income, and repair costs.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are subjective. This includes concepts like mental anguish, pain and suffering, and reduced quality of life.
A seasoned Southlake attorney could estimate the amount of financial restitution the injured party could successfully seek based on the cause of the accident and the injuries that followed.
Call a Southlake Motorcycle Attorney About the Common Causes of Accidents Today
Dealing with the effects of a motorcycle crash can be stressful. Unfortunately, incidents are frequent; being aware of the common causes of motorcycle accidents in Southlake does not always prevent them. When you are in a collision, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney could guide you through the legal process of seeking justice and compensation. Call today to schedule a consultation.