How Negligent Motorists Cause Motorcycle-Car Accidents

Motorists tend to blame bikers for motorcycle-car collisions. However, motorcyclists are not always to blame for these accidents. Other things, including negligent drivers, are sometimes to blame. As a motorcyclist, you will need to work hard to prove a driver's negligence if one crashes into you. Knowing how these accidents usually occur can help you prove your case.

Below are some of the reasons drivers sometimes collide with motorcycles.

Focusing on Cars at Motorcyclists' Expense

Motorcycles are much smaller than cars. Thus, a typical motorcycle is harder to spot than a typical car. Many motorists instinctively look out for other cars while navigating the highway, forgetting that other, smaller road users exist.

For example, a motorist might go through an intersection or crossroad thinking that everything is clear just because there are no other cars on the road. A motorist that can't see you might hit you at full speed and cause you severe injuries. In such a case, you may need to prove that the motorist didn't see you in time to avoid a collision.

Not Using Turn Signals

Many motorcycle-car accidents occur when a car attempts to change lanes or turn. Some motorists have a habit of turning or changing lanes without using turn signals. Not using turn signals is dangerous for all road users, but it's especially disastrous for motorcycles that aren't as visible as other road users.

Consider a car that turns left in front of a motorcyclist without using their turn signal. The motorcyclist continues straight ahead, unaware of the driver intention. By the time the motorcyclist is aware of the driver's maneuver, they can't stop in time to avoid a crash.

Another example is if a driver in the next lane decides to move to your lane without signaling. Some motorists will even start the maneuver when they are right beside you. Such a car might crash into you since you won't be expecting it.

Misjudging Stopping Distances

A typical car cannot stop on the spot in case of an emergency - the driver needs time and space to stop. The stopping distance and time depend on a car's braking system, weight, and speed, among other factors. Most motorists know these facts and leave adequate maneuver distance between them and other cars.

Unfortunately, motorcyclists often require more time and distance to stop compared to motorists. Thus, many motorists don't give motorcyclists adequate space for maneuvers.

Say a motorist and a motorcyclist are approaching an intersection at roughly the same time. The motorist assumes that the motorcyclist will stop, but the motorcyclist knows that the distance is inadequate. Both continue with their moves, and the miscalculation leads to an accident.

Recklessly Opening Car Doors

Another common motorcycle-car accident occurs when a stopped motorist opens the car's door without considering other road users. If the door extends over the next lane, as is usually the case, a motorcyclist in the next lane can easily hit the door and crash.

An open car door can also ensnare other motorists. However, most cars are heavy and stable enough to remain upright despite the crash. The inherent instability and low relative weight of motorcycles mean you can easily fall when you hit a car's doors. In addition, the lack of body protection also means your injuries will be extensive.

Don't let a motorist pin fault on you in a motorcycle-car crash when it may be unwarranted. As with any other accident, don't admit liability until you can talk with a lawyer. In the meantime, exchange relevant details with the motorist, preserve all evidence, and seek medical care. After that, contact Walsh & Associates, PC to take your auto accident case.