Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
March 16, 2016
Motorcycle Accidents in Sarasota
Hundreds of Florida motorcycle riders die in accidents every year, and thousands more suffer serious, and sometimes life-changing injuries. The Florida Department of Transportation reports that while the overall number of traffic-related injuries has declined in recent years, motorcycle accident injuries have increased by 50 percent, and motorcycle accident fatalities have increased by an astonishing 90 percent.
Car or Truck Driver Error
The majority of collisions involving motorcycles and other vehicles result from negligent or aggressive driving on the part of the vehicle driver. Sadly, many of these motorcycle accidents in Sarasota could be easily avoided with the exercise of reasonable care. With Florida’s year-round motorcycle weather, many drivers get complacent and either take risks or overlook motorcycles, often leading to dangerous collisions.
Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Sarasota include:
- Drivers making left-hand turns in front of oncoming motorcycles
- Drivers pulling out in front of motorcycles at intersections
- Drivers changing lanes into motorcycles
- Drivers rear-ending motorcycles in heavy congestion or stop-and-go traffic
- Drivers opening their doors in front of ongoing motorcycles
In each of these cases, even a momentary lapse in error or judgment on the part of the vehicle driver can lead to a life-changing or fatal accident. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Sarasota where someone else was to blame, you may be able to recover significant financial compensation for your losses.
Motorcycle Rider Error — You May Still be Entitled to Partial Compensation
Of course, rider error can lead to motorcycle accidents as well. The following are some common examples of rider mistakes that can lead to dangerous motorcycle accidents:
- Entering a corner too fast
- Locking up the front brake
- Over-correcting a lean or skid
- Riding beyond your ability
- Speeding or riding too fast for the road conditions
Importantly, even if the rider was partially at fault in causing an accident, under Florida law he or she may still entitled to partial compensation.
It is also possible for outside factors, such as weather and road conditions, to lead to motorcycle accidents. In addition, if a defective part or bad repair job leads to a driver or rider losing control, these too are causes that can entitle an injured rider to a financial recovery. In many cases, there will be multiple factors that contribute to causing a motorcycle accident – and multiple parties that may be to blame for a rider’s injuries.
Motorcycle Accidents in Sarasota – Get a FREE Consultation at Jodat Law Group
Motorcycle accident cases can be challenging, and the insurance companies will try to get you to settle for as little money as possible. As a result, it is always best to consult with an experienced attorney before making any decisions about your case. To schedule a free consultation with a Sarasota motorcycle accident attorney at Jodat Law Group, call (877) JodatLaw or complete our online form today.
