common motorcycle accident scenariosMotorcyclists are well aware of the serious risks of being involved in potentially catastrophic accidents.  A recent motorcycle accident in San Diego demonstrates how, even the most careful motorcyclists can suffer debilitating injuries.  A San Diego City College student lost a limb after being struck by an automobile while on his motorcycle.  So, what can motorcyclists do to avoid such injuries?  Being familiar with some of the common motorcycle accident scenarios may be a first step.
When a car turns left in front of you
One of the most common accident scenarios occurs when a car unexpectedly turns left in front of a motorcyclist.  Automobile drivers often have a tough time estimating the speed of a motorcyclist, or simply do not see a motorcycle on the roadway at all.  The trick to avoiding these types of accidents is to pay attention to the other drivers around you.  If you can anticipate the potential accident, you may be able to adjust your direction and speed, in order to avoid the collision.  Look for cars at an intersection waiting to turn left or gaps in traffic near an intersection of a parking lot.  If you can allow yourself sufficient time to avoid the accident, it could make the difference between life and death.
Unexpected rough patches in the road
Another common cause for motorcycle accidents is rough or uneven road surfaces.  If you are trying to round a corner and hit a patch of gravel, leaves, ice or any other dangerous surface, you run a serious risk of sliding and being thrown from your motorcycle.  The first precaution to take is to always approach a curve in the road more slowly.  Doing so may allow you enough of an opportunity to see the rough patch in order to avoid it.  If not, traveling at a slower speed can be helpful as well.
Automobiles cutting you off in your lane
It is not uncommon for cars to change lanes all of a sudden, without using their turn signals.  This can cause sever motorcycle accidents as well.  One way to help prevent such an accident is for the motorcyclist to be very diligent, paying attention to a car driver’s blind spots and avoid them as much as possible. If you can see a driver in his or her sideview mirror, then it is very likely that the driver can see you, as well. Also pay attention to a car’s turn signal coming on or a vehicle veering toward your lane. Remember to slow down and ensure that you stay out of the driver’s blind spot.
Protect yourself as best you can
The first line of defense is wearing protective gear.  While you might have a feeling of invincibility when riding, it is the other drivers on the road that you have to be aware of.  A distracted automobile driver can cause a fatal accident unexpectedly and completely unintentionally.  So, protecting yourself as much as possible is always important.
If you have questions regarding motorcycle accidents, or any other personal injury concerns, call the Cottrell Law Office at (888) 433-4861.

Author Photo

Wesley Cottrell

Wes Cottrell earned his B.A. from Pittsburg State University in 1981 and his J.D. from the Washburn University School of Law in Topeka, Kansas in 1985. He was admitted to practice law in Kansas in 1986, in Missouri in 1987, in Arkansas in 1989, and Oklahoma in 1993. He is licensed to practice law in the United States District Court for the District of Kansas, eastern Arkansas, western Arkansas, and western Missouri. He was Deputy Prosecuting Attorney in Crawford County, Kansas from 1987-1989.

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