Motorcyclists face multiple hazards while they are riding in the Bay Area. Recent motorcycle accidents in the Bay Area prove this point. A motorcyclist in San Jose died after colliding into a vehicle that was making a left-hand turn. According to law enforcement, the interior of the motorist’s vehicle smelled heavily of marijuana. We are also representing a motorcyclist who suffered injuries during an accident on Highway 17.
As a motorcyclist, it is important to understand which hazards pose the greatest risk to your safety. Our blog may help familiarize you with common causes of motorcycle accidents in the Bay Area.
- Left-turn accidents. An estimated 36 percent of motorcycle accidents occur when motorists make left turns in front of riders. These accidents can occur when a motorist does not give a motorcyclist the right-of-way. Motorists may not see motorcyclists before turning.
- Unsafe lane changes. Motorists can collide into motorcyclists while changing lanes. This type of collision may occur when motorists do not check their blind spots before changing lanes.
- Distracted driving. Distracted driving has become a common cause of motorcycle and car accidents in the US. Drivers who are not paying attention may slam into motorcyclists from behind. Distracted motorists may also cause rear-end collisions by suddenly hitting the brakes.
- Lane splitting accidents. Lane splitting is legal in California. However, riding in-between other vehicles comes with risks. Motorists may not see approaching motorcyclists. If a motorist turns or changes lanes as a motorcycle is passing, it could cause an accident.
- Head-on collisions. There are multiple reasons why motorists can cause head-on collisions with motorcyclists. Drunk, drowsy or distracted motorists may cause head-on collisions.
Can I File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?
You may be entitled to compensation if a motorist’s negligence caused your or a loved one’s motorcycle accident. The San Jose motorcycle accident lawyers at Golden State Lawyers will review your case at no cost to help you determine whether there are options to recover compensation. You can set up a free consultation with one of our attorneys by calling (408) 556-9780 or by filling out the case review form on our website.