Driver Distractions Lead to Severe Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists are often at risk of severe harm because they have less protection. Unfortunately, crashes often arise because of negligent drivers. One of the most dangerous types of negligence is distracted driving, and these drivers can cause some of the most catastrophic motorcycle accidents.

Motorcyclists can watch for signs of distracted driving, such as swerving or speeding, but preventing a crash is not always possible. Here are some of the ways that distracted drivers can cause motorcycle accidents.

Intersections and Distractions

Stoplights and signs indicate whether drivers should stop or go. Unfortunately, distracted drivers might not react to these traffic signs. They run red lights or roll through stop signs because they look at their phones and speed through the intersection. If a motorcyclist is legally crossing the intersection perpendicularly, the distracted driver can cause a severe crash.

These are most often T-bone collisions. As a result, the motorcyclist may be ejected from their bike. This is when motorcyclists are at risk of the most severe injuries. Distractions at intersections can include:

• Passengers
• Cell phones
• Rubbernecking
• Loss of focus

Merging Lanes and Distractions

It’s always advisable for drivers to check their mirrors and blind spots when merging lanes. However, not all drivers do. Even worse, some are distracted when they decide to merge lanes and don’t look at what or who might be next to their vehicle.

Merging into a motorcyclist can cause them to lose control. The motorcyclist may slide out with the motorcycle, landing on their leg. Injuries that can arise in this situation include a crushed leg, burn injury, road rash, or broken bones.

If you suffer a severe injury because of a negligence-related motorcycle crash, trust our Oregon motorcycle accident attorneys to help you. At The Gatti Law Firm, we focus on you and your rights. We want to safeguard you from insurance companies who may try to take advantage of your vulnerable situation.

Call our team today at (503) 543-1114 for a free consultation.