Intersection Motorcycle Collisions and Accidents

There is a common roadway area in which motorcyclists are put at risk for personal injuries on a daily basis: the intersection. Motorcycles, by virtue of their size, weight, and volume, are no match whatsoever for any crash or impact with a passenger motor vehicle or a commercial motor vehicle. Unfortunately, due to distracted driving, excessive speed, or just negligence or carelessness, motorcyclists are hit or run off the road at intersections in just about every community. Many such motorcycle versus motor vehicle accidents take place when the driver of the motor vehicle violates the right of way of the motorcyclists. In many instances, a motorcyclist will attempt to avoid the crash by turn, braking, and / or laying down the bike. Even when there is no impact with the motor vehicle, serious personal injuries can certainly befall the motorcyclist who prior to the crash was obeying the law and operating his motorcycle in a safe and reasonable manner.

With the proliferation of mobile phones which are now in the possession of most every driver, distracted driving is a problem and danger out on the roadways. Instead of being on the lookout for motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians at an intersection, now drivers are looking down to check that next e-mail, text message, or funny video on Facebook. However, there is nothing funny about a violation of the right of way of a motorcyclist leading to serious personal injuries. Simply stated, drivers should put down the mobile phone and lift their eyes to be on the lookout for motorcyclists and others on or near the roadway.

Many intersections have a posted stop sign in place. There is a clear purpose for the stop sign as to the flow and order of traffic. All vehicles should come to a safe stop at the stop sign and then look for crossing or approaching vehicles. Unfortunately, drivers are often in a hurry and do not see a motorcycle coming through or approaching an intersection until it is too late to take actions to protect the motorcyclist who is otherwise operating his bike in a safe and reasonable manner.

Some motorcycle accidents boil down to conflicting stories or statements as to the cause and preventability of the motorcycle accident. In these situations, it is helpful to have independent witness statements and other evidence to support the position of the motorcyclist. If the responding police officer issues a citation to the other driver, the driver and his insurance company can still challenge the liability or fault for the crash or accident. Some cases are not clear cut but can still be pursued based on the statement and observations of the motorcyclist as well as the physical and forensic evidence available to present.

In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, it is important for a motorcyclist to seek out legal representation. Insurance companies are represented by a team of attorneys, adjusters, field adjusters, and investigators. It is important for a motorcycle injury victim to be represented as well. David A. Wolf is an experienced Florida Motorcycle Accident Attorney with over 30 years of experience. He is the author of 12 books that focus on personal injury and safety matters. Contact David A. Wolf today for a Free Consultation. Get D. Wolf On Your Side - At Your Side.