5 Reasons Why Motorcycle Accidents Happen
With its scenic coastal routes and year-round sunshine, Clearwater and the surrounding areas is a magnet for motorcycle enthusiasts. Riders enjoy the freedom of cruising along Gulf Boulevard or navigating the winding roads near the Courtney Campbell Causeway.
But with this beauty comes with risks. Motorcycle accidents are all too common and the consequences can be devastating. If things have already gone wrong and a collision has occurred, have a conversation with a Clearwater criminal lawyer in order to hold the right parties accountable.
Recognizing Top Dangers
Avoiding crashes is key to staying safe, and understanding why they occur is the first step in prevention. While every situation has its own specifics to review, there are five reasons that amplify motorcycle collision risks.
- Driver inattention and blind spots. One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents is when other drivers simply don’t see the motorcyclist. Cars turning left in front of motorcycles, merging without checking blind spots, or being distracted by phones can all lead to collisions.
- Speeding and driving recklessly. Speed is a major factor in serious motorcycle accidents. Whether it’s a motorcyclist speeding or another vehicle traveling too fast to react safely, collisions at high speeds often result in severe injuries. In Clearwater, popular spots like the Memorial Causeway can become dangerous when riders or drivers treat the open road like a race track.
- Driving under the influence. While there have been improvements, it is an unfortunate reality that impaired driving continues to be an issue in Pinellas County. Alcohol or drugs, whether used by the motorcyclist or another driver, lead to slow reaction times and impair judgment. DUI-related crashes are especially tragic because they are entirely preventable. Criminal charges may be filed against the impaired driver, and civil actions can help victims recover compensation.
- Road hazards and poor infrastructure. Motorcycles are particularly vulnerable to road conditions. Potholes, uneven pavement, sand, and oil slicks pose serious risks. If poor road maintenance is to blame, a government entity may be held liable.
- Failure to follow traffic laws. Intersections are especially dangerous for motorcyclists. Failure to yield, running red lights, or making unsafe lane changes often result in T-bone crashes and side impacts. These behaviors may not only justify a personal injury claim but also criminal charges depending on the severity and circumstances of the violation.
Accidents happen, but in many cases there are safety measures that could have helped to avoid the collision all together. When negligence or illegal behavior is involved, you deserve accountability and financial support.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable
After a motorcycle accident, an experienced Clearwater criminal lawyer can step in to ensure justice is served. If a driver broke the law, such as by driving under the influence or engaging in reckless behavior, criminal charges may be pursued by prosecutors. Victims often have the right to seek financial relief through civil claims, too.
Has a motorcycle accident complicated your finances? The legal team at King Law Group is available to fight for your rights on every front. Schedule a consultation today.
