There are many different ways that motorcycle accidents can happen, but one of the most common is relatively simple: another driver turns in front of the bike. This is often referred to as a left-turn accident. It can happen at intersections or on two-way streets where there is opposing traffic.
One of the major problems with this type of accident is that motorcycle riders don’t have any evasive options. Since the vehicle is turning left in front of them, swerving to the right just means that they are heading in the exact same direction. But if they swerve to the left, away from the turning vehicle, that just means they are riding into the oncoming traffic lanes. Either action can lead to a severe crash.
Why do other drivers make this mistake?
Other drivers can make the mistake of turning in front of a motorcycle for a wide variety of reasons. One example could be if the driver is distracted, so they’re not paying attention to oncoming traffic. Another example is if they’re impaired by alcohol or drugs.
One very common issue is just that drivers don’t expect to see motorcycles and aren’t really looking for them. They may just glance at the road, meaning they don’t take the time to see a much smaller vehicle approaching. If they don’t spot any obvious cars or trucks, they assume the road is clear and they turn.
A related issue is inattentional blindness, where the brain can filter out important information and replace it with what a person expects to see. Someone who isn’t actively looking for motorcycles could look at one without actually seeing it at all.
Have you suffered serious injuries in a crash caused by another driver? If so, take the time to carefully consider the legal options at your disposal.