5 Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents and Their Legal Implications

Today, on Redhead Mom, I’m sharing a partnered guest post about common causes of motorcycle accidents.

Riding a motorcycle is one of the most exhilarating experiences imaginable. However, it can also be dangerous. Every year, lots of folks are injured or killed in motorcycle accidents. The CDC reports that there were 45,343 motor vehicle fatalities in 2005 – the leading cause of death in unintentional accidents. 

If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to understand what caused it and your legal rights. Then, you can hire a motorcycle accident lawyer from sites like https://francistxlaw.com/practice-areas/dallas-motorcycle-accident-lawyers/ to fight your case. This blog will discuss five common causes of motorcycle accidents and their legal implications.

Driver Error

Around 42 percent of motorcyclists who died in a single-vehicle crash in 2019 were alcoholics. It is illegal to operate any motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If a driver is at fault for an accident because they were intoxicated, they may face criminal charges and civil liability.

Traffic lawyers will tell you that motorcycle accidents happen by the negligence of other drivers on the road. It can include distracted driving, speeding, or even failure to yield the right of way. If another driver’s negligence has hurt you, you may be able to hold them liable for damages.

Poor Road Conditions

 In 2019, motorcyclists were killed almost 29 times more than passenger car occupants in crashes per vehicle miles traveled. Poor road conditions are a significant matter in many motorcycle accidents. Potholes, debris, oil slicks, and gravel can all cause a rider to lose control of their bike. If you’ve been in a road accident due to poor road conditions, you may be able to file a claim against the government entity responsible for maintaining the roadway.

Speeding or Reckless Driving

Many motorcyclists are killed each year due to the recklessness of other drivers. Speeding, tailgating, and weaving in and out of traffic are dangerous behaviors that can lead to serious accidents. If a rash driver has injured you, you may file a personal injury claim against them.

An experienced lawyer like a wrongful death attorney can understand your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Distracted Driving

If the opposite driver was talking on the phone, texting, or doing anything else that took their attention off the road, they may be liable for your accident. Even if they weren’t technically breaking the law, their actions were still negligent and put other people in danger.

If you have evidence that a driver was distracted at the time of the accident, it will be much easier to prove that they were at fault. But, again, an attorney can help you track down witnesses or obtain phone records that will support your claim.

Alcohol/Drug Use

When motorcyclists are under drugs or alcohol, their ability to operate a motorcycle safely is significantly impaired. Not only is it illegal to ride while intoxicated, but it can also result in serious accidents. If you have got in a road accident with a motorcyclist who was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you may be able to file a case with the help of a lawyer.

Final Thoughts

Whether you or someone who has been in a serious accident, it’s important to know the common causes and their legal implications. In addition, by understanding the risks involved in riding a motorcycle, you can make informed decisions about your and others’ safety on the road.