Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Attorney Representation in Phoenix, Arizona Since 1996
Share the Road: What Motorcyclists Would Like to Say to Other Drivers
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2009, 4,462 people died in motorcycle crashes. Some 106,000 motorcycles were involved in crashes in 2009, including property damage-only crashes and motorcyclists were 39 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled in 2008. Also, motorcyclists were eight times more likely to be injured, according to NHTSA. Many of these accidents were caused because car drivers didn’t see the motorcyclists or because drivers rear-ended motorcycles. The fact of the matter is that driving near motorcycles is different than driving near cars or trucks. The following are some things that motorcyclists wish every driver knew:
- There are relatively few motorcycles on the road. Many motorists aren’t used to seeing and interacting with motorcycles. It’s important to look for motorcycles, especially when checking traffic at an intersection.
- A motorcycle may seem to be farther away than he or she really is. It may also be difficult to judge a motorcycle’s speed. When checking traffic to turn at an intersection or into (or out of) a driveway, assume that a motorcycle is closer than it looks.
- It is easy to lose a motorcyclist in your blind spot. Be aware of your surrounding and check your blind spot and mirrors when changing lanes or making turns.
- It is difficult to gauge a motorcycle’s speed. Exercise caution when pulling out in front of motorcycles.
- Don’t tailgate motorcyclists. Motorcyclists may slow down without any visual warning by down shifting or letting off the throttle.
- Not all motorcycles have turn signals. It would be wise to learn the appropriate hand signals so you can anticipate the movements of motorcyclists.
If you are a motorcyclist who has been injured in an accident due to another motorist’s negligence, please contact Breyer Law Offices at (602) 457-6222 for your free consultation with a Phoenix motorcycle crash lawyer. They have years of experience with motorcycle accidents and will be able to help you receive the settlement you deserve.
