Left Turn Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents involving vehicles can happen in many ways, but most of these accidents happen because of left-turning vehicles. According to the NHTSA, 42% of fatal motorcycle accidents that involve other vehicles involve a vehicle turning left while the motorcycle passes directly through an intersection or overtakes another vehicle. Often, left-turn motorcycle accidents happen when there are multiple lanes of traffic.
Unfortunately, when a left-turn motorcycle accident does not result in death, it will likely result in serious injuries. Head injuries are quite common in left-turn motorcycle accidents, especially among those motorcyclists operating their motorcycles without helmets. A severe head injury sustained in a left-turn motorcycle accident can affect crucial functions in your body. For example, a severe head injury can affect your ability to see, talk, hear, sleep, and eat. A severe head injury can result in permanent damage.
Other common injuries in left-turn motorcycle accidents include;
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Lower back injuries
- Muscle damage
- Road rash
- Internal injuries
Causes of Left Turn Motorcycle Accidents
Most left-turn motorcycle accidents happen because of driver negligence. For example, a driver might fail to check the intersection at a corner before making a left turn and cause a left turn motorcycle accident. Also, a driver might cause a left turn motorcycle accident if they are distracted during the turn.
Other primary causes of left-turn motorcycle accidents include;
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
How To Avoid Left Turn Motorcycle Accidents
Although you cannot control how other drivers behave while on the road, there are some things motorcyclists can do to lower the risk of being hit by a left-turning driver. The following are some of these things;
- Approach intersections carefully – Even if the road looks clear, it is a good idea to slow down when approaching an intersection. Even in a situation where you have the right of way, ensure you look both ways before passing through an intersection.
- Increase visibility – Many motorists don’t see motorcyclists when navigating traffic on the roads. Therefore, it is a good idea to increase visibility by, for example, wearing high-visibility or bright clothing.
- Be proactive – For example, avoid stopping too close to an intersection. Also, anticipate drivers’ moves. You can tell a driver wants to turn if, for instance, they turn their head.
- Have a contingency plan – For example, before you go into an intersection, you should understand your motorcycle’s stopping distance. It is also wise to plan a safe trajectory just in case you don’t manage to brake in time if an unforeseen event, like a vehicle turning left, happens.
What Should You Do After a Left Turn Motorcycle Accident?
After suffering injuries in a left-turn motorcycle accident because of another driver’s negligence, consult a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer. An experienced lawyer can help you file a claim against the negligent driver and recover the compensation you deserve.
Contact a Plantation Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Our Plantation motorcycle accident lawyers at Lyons & Snyder can help you with a left turn motorcycle accident claim. We can help you gather evidence that can help prove liability on the other driver’s part. In case of shared liability, we can help you mitigate liability and recover the compensation you are owed.
