The most common type of collision between cars and motorcycles is a left–turn collision. These accidents typically occur when a car making a left turn fails to see an oncoming motorcycle or misjudges its speed, cutting off the rider’s path.
Due to motorcycles’ size and visibility, drivers often fail to notice them in time, leading to devastating consequences. Left-turn collisions are especially dangerous for motorcyclists, as they often result in severe injuries or fatalities due to their lack of protection compared to car occupants.
A Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident lawyer can help you file a claim against an at-fault driver if you suffered injuries in a collision.
Left-Turn Collisions Between Cars and Motorcycles
Left-turn collisions are the most common type of accident between cars and motorcycles, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities for motorcyclists.
These accidents typically occur when a car turning left at an intersection or onto a driveway fails to notice an oncoming motorcycle or incorrectly judges its speed and distance.
Common issues leading to left-turn collisions between cars and motorcycles include:
- Limited visibility: Motorcycles are smaller than cars and can easily be overlooked by drivers, especially in busy or low-visibility conditions.
- Driver misjudgment: Drivers may underestimate the speed of an approaching motorcycle, assuming they can complete the turn before the rider reaches the intersection.
- Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are more likely to miss a motorcycle in their path.
More people choose The Schiller Kessler Group because they know that we’re a cut above other personal injury law firms.
Other Common Types of Collisions Between Cars and Motorcycles
While left-turn collisions are the most common, other types of accidents between cars and motorcycles occur frequently and can be just as dangerous. Here are some of the most common:
Lane Change Accidents
Lane change accidents happen when a driver switches lanes without noticing a motorcycle in their blind spot. Motorcycles are smaller, making them harder to see, especially if the driver fails to check mirrors or blind spots thoroughly. These accidents are common on highways or busy streets and can result in serious injuries if the motorcyclist is hit or forced off the road.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end collisions occur when a car hits a motorcycle from behind, often due to distracted driving or following too closely. Because motorcycles stop more quickly than cars, drivers who do not maintain sufficient following distance are at risk of causing these accidents. Even at low speeds, a rear-end collision can eject the motorcyclist, leading to severe injuries.
Dooring Accidents
Dooring accidents happen when a driver or passenger in a parked car opens their door into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. These collisions are common in urban areas and can be devastating for motorcyclists, who may not have time to react or may swerve into traffic to avoid the door.
Head-On Collisions
Head-on collisions are among the deadliest types of accidents for motorcyclists. They occur when a car crosses into the opposite lane, hitting a motorcycle traveling in the other direction. The impact is often fatal due to the combined speed of both vehicles and the motorcyclist’s lack of protection.
Common Injuries Sustained in Collisions Between Cars and Motorcycles
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. The most common injuries include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, even when helmets are worn.
Spinal cord injuries are also common, with the force of impact causing partial or complete paralysis, requiring extensive treatment and lifelong care.
Broken bones frequently occur since motorcyclists are often ejected during collisions. Fractures in arms, legs, ribs, or the pelvis may require surgeries and lengthy recoveries.
Road rash is another common injury caused by sliding across the pavement. Severe cases can lead to infections, permanent scarring, or the need for skin grafts. Internal injuries, such as damage to organs or internal bleeding, are life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
How to Prove Fault in a Collision Between a Car and a Motorcycle
Proving fault in a collision between a car and a motorcycle can be challenging, but an experienced lawyer can provide critical assistance in building a strong case. They focus on gathering and organizing evidence to demonstrate the other driver’s negligence.
- Collecting evidence: A lawyer will obtain photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and traffic signs. They may also secure video footage from nearby traffic cameras or dashcams to show how the collision occurred.
- Interviewing witnesses: Attorneys will gather statements from witnesses who saw the accident to provide unbiased perspectives that support your claim.
- Obtaining the police report: Lawyers ensure the police report is reviewed and used as evidence, as it often contains details about fault or traffic violations.
- Consulting experts: Accident reconstruction experts may be hired to analyze the crash and provide a clear explanation of how the other driver caused it.
- Negotiating with insurers: Insurance companies may try to shift blame onto motorcyclists. A lawyer will challenge these tactics and present evidence to prove fault, ensuring you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
A lawyer can strengthen your case and protect your rights throughout the claims process.
We Can Explain More About the Most Common Type of Collision Between Cars and Motorcycles
While the most common type of collision between cars and motorcycles is a left-turn collision, accidents can occur due to various negligence. Building a strong case requires expertise and dedication, from collecting evidence to demonstrating negligence.
At The Schiller Kessler Group, we understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face and are committed to fighting for your rights. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, our experienced legal team is here to help. Contact The Schiller Kessler Group today for a free consultation.
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