Other Drivers Endanger Motorcyclists

The NHTSA, in an effort to raise awareness of the safety concerns for motorcycle operators, uses its “Share the Road” campaign to educate the public about the need for all vehicle operators to recognize cyclists’ rights.

According to the organization’s findings, about one-half of motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle. An astounding 40% of those crashes “were caused by the other vehicle turning left in front of the motorcyclist.” 

According to the Virginia DMV, in 2008 in Virginia, 90 – or about 3.5% of all annual – motorcycle accidents – were caused by the motorcycle operator trying to avoid contact with another vehicle. Many of those car or truck drivers may not have even been aware they were about to strike a motorcycle at the time of the accident.  

Common Causes for Virginia Motorcycle Accidents

Whether you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, or are simply concerned with protecting your safety on the road, all motorcycle operators in Virginia can benefit from an awareness of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents. Listed below are a few statistics on the causes of Virginia motorcycle crashes:

• More than 90% of injured motorcycle drivers were not impaired by drugs or alcohol at the time of their Virginia cycle crash.

• More than a third (37%) of motorcycle drivers were not responsible for their crash.

• The most common operator errors for Virginia motorcycle drivers in 2008 were excessive speed and following other vehicles too closely. These two factors combined totaled roughly 13% of Virginia motorcycle accidents.

• In 3% of Virginia motorcycle accidents, the motorcycle demonstrated some type of equipment failure, such as brake problems or faulty tires

• Most Virginia motorcycle accidents occurred in the daytime, while the cyclist was driving straight ahead

Getting Back On Your Bike Following a Motorcycle Accident

If you are interested in returning to the road after a Virginia motorcycle accident, there are a few steps that might provide an extra bit of safety and peace of mind:

• Invest in top-notch safety equipment, including an approved helmet and protective body gear (leather jacket, boots, etc.)

• Consider additional motorcycle safety courses and training to improve your road skills

• Obey all posted speed limits and observe a safe following distance

• Be vigilant in watching out for distracted drivers

• Before riding, always check your motorcycle to ensure it is in top working order

The key objective is to avoid a motorcycle crash at all costs. Motorcycle accidents many times result in catastrophic injuries to the people who were riding them.

If you, or your loved one, were involved in a motorcycle accident in the Northern Virginia area, it would be wise for you to contact an experienced Virginia personal injury lawyer. When you are interviewing motorcycle accident attorneys ask critical questions, like: how long have you been practicing law; what is the largest settlement or verdict you’ve obtained; and how many Virginia motorcycle accident cases have you handled and won?

Virginia motorcycle accident lawyer, James Parrish, takes time when speaking with you about your case. Mr. Parrish will analyze all aspects of the incident, identify the negligent parties and hold them accountable! The Parrish Law Firm works with you on a contingent fee basis so there are NO FEES unless we win your case! Call us today for a FREE evaluation of your case – 571-229-1800.