At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, we know that riding your motorcycle can be thrilling. However, motorcyclists are at risk of suffering serious, even catastrophic injuries if they are involved in an accident on the roadway. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents tend to result in more devastating injuries than passenger car accidents because of the lack of protection motorcycles provide for riders. Our compassionate motorcycle accident lawyers want you to stay safe the next time you take your bike out for a ride. Below, we discuss some of the common causes of motorcycle accidents that riders should be aware of.
#1: Lane Splitting Accidents
When motorcyclists attempt to ride between two lanes of stopped or slow-moving cars, they put themselves in danger of being hit by larger vehicles changing lanes that might not see them. Lane splitting commonly causes motorcycle accidents for the following reasons:
- Poor visibility when other motorists do not see or anticipate the nearby motorcyclist
- The motorcycle and other vehicles are too close together
- Minimal space for the motorcyclist to maneuver
#2: Vehicles Making Left-Hand Turns
Motorcycle riders need to be wary of vehicles that might suddenly make a left-hand turn that cuts them off. A substantial number of accidents involving motorcycles and cars occur when a driver makes a dangerous left-hand turn. Left-hand turn accidents tend to happen when motorcyclists are:
- At an intersection
- Passing another car
- Trying to overtake a car
#3: Driving Under the Influence
Just like car and truck accidents, motorcycle accidents are more likely to occur when the motorcyclist or other driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Impaired driving is one of the leading causes of catastrophic motorcycle accidents in California. Drugs and alcohol can impact drivers and motorcyclist in the following ways:
- Impaired judgment
- Delayed reaction time
- Makes them more likely to act recklessly
Our Los Angeles Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Are Here to Help
If you or a loved one sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle accident, then you need to consult with a seasoned lawyer to get help recovering maximum compensation for your damages. Contact Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP so we can take a look at your case and devise a strong legal strategy to protect your best interests. Our legal team is here to provide valuable counsel so you can pursue justice.
To schedule a free consultation to learn more information about your legal rights, please give us a call today at (800) 462-7160.
