It’s finally summer time! The sun is out, and so are the bikes. According to the National Safety Council, nearly 52% of motorcycle collisions involve another vehicle. Getting into an accident on a motorcycle is incredibly dangerous for the rider, so it’s important for other drivers to learn how to share the road.

When you notice that a motorcycle is riding within your vicinity, follow these driving guidelines to lower your chances of getting into a collision.

  • Since motorcycles can stop and turn more quickly than other vehicles, it’s important to maintain a greater following distance.
  • Always check your blind spots. Motorcycles are smaller than cars and trucks, which makes it easier for them to fall out of your line of sight.
  • When using your turn signal, wait for at least three “blinks” before making the turn.
  • When driving on the highway, do not drift within your lane. “Lane splitting,” or passing between two cars, is a common practice of some motorcyclists. The legality of this varies among the states, but regardless, safety is more important than making a point – keep your emotions on the matter in check.
  • Because some motorcycles have signals that are not self-deactivated, sometimes bikes have a signal on without an apparent reason. However, to err on the side of caution, always drive as if the signal is the rider’s intention. Wait for a minute or two before deciding that it’s a false signal.
  • If you are about to pass a motorcyclist, do so more slowly than you normally would. Do not get in front of the motorcycle until you are at least three car lengths ahead.
  • At night and in poor weather conditions, be on the lookout and exercise extra caution.
  • Be careful when approaching intersections, especially those with blind turns.

 

I’ve Been in an Accident

On the flip side, if you are a motorcyclist and have been involved in a collision with another vehicle, you may be entitled to pursue compensation. After an accident, follow these steps.

  • Contact the police so they can investigate and gather details of the accident. If possible, try to remember officer names and badge numbers.
  • Take photos of the scene of the accident, and your injuries.
  • If you have been injured, go to the emergency room as soon as possible. You may feel perfectly fine due to adrenaline, but there could still be a serious personal injury
  • Do not contact the insurance company or agree to speak with the other driver’s insurer until after you’ve talked to your personal injury attorney. They will likely try to avoid having to provide financial compensation by taking your words out of context.
  • Hire a personal injury lawyer to handle your case. Your lawyer will guide you through the legal process, handle necessary paperwork, gather evidence, and fight for the settlement you need to cover your personal injury related expenses.

Motorcycle accidents can lead to debilitating injuries including, but not limited to the following.

Motorcycle injuries are painful, expensive, and often take a long time to fully recover from. You’ll need to hire an experienced, compassionate attorney to help win you the financial compensation you deserve. Contact us to schedule your initial consultation where you will receive free legal advice from a Kansas City lawyer near you.