Reasons Why Drivers Hit Motorcyclists

Motorcycles provide a reliable way to travel as well as recreation. Far too many riders and their passengers suffer injuries in accidents each year in this state. The good news is that a Round Rock motorcycle accidents attorney can help them seek financial recovery.

If you’re a motorcyclist, nothing beats the thrill and freedom of the open road. Texas provides an excellent backdrop for motorcyclists with its warm weather, eye-catching scenery, vast land, and never-ending roadways.

Unfortunately, motorcycle riding comes with its fair share of drawbacks, one of them being the risks of injuries. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) reports that, on average, one motorcyclist loses their life on a Texas road every day. In 2019 alone, over 1,800 motorcyclists were seriously injured, and 412 died. This problem is so severe that TxDOT started a “Share the Road: Look Twice for Motorcycles” campaign, highlighting one of the main reasons motorcycle accidents happen – drivers who are not paying full attention to the road.

The following are only some of the many causes of motorcycle crashes. Those injured in a motorcycle accident can rely on a Round Rock personal injury lawyer’s knowledge and experience as they seek the compensation they deserve.

Left Turns

Cars making left-hand turns are the single most dangerous scenario for all motorcyclists on the road. Typically, the turning car strikes the motorcycle when it is:

  • Traveling straight through an intersection
  • Attempting to pass the car
  • Trying to overtake the car

Although these same types of accidents happen between two passenger vehicles, they are more frequent with a motorcycle. The motorcycle’s size makes it harder for a turning driver to see. However, that fact doesn’t excuse their liability if they hit someone, as a skilled Round Rock personal injury attorney can prove.

Lane Splitting

When a motorcyclist maneuvers between two lanes of stopped or slowly moving traffic, they are said to be lane splitting. Lane splitting often makes it difficult for drivers to see motorcyclists and be aware of where they are.

This is a frequent practice for motorcyclists in traffic jams. However, it’s a common cause of accidents and is illegal in Texas. Under Section 545.060 of the Texas Transportation Code, all drivers and motorcyclists must drive in their own lane. For divided roadways, “two or more clearly marked lanes,” motorcyclists may change lanes but are not permitted to drive between them.

The Motorcycle Crashes First

Sometimes another vehicle or road hazard causes a motorcycle to crash or the biker to lay their motorcycle down. These circumstances arise without warning, giving nearby drivers little or no time to slow down or stop. However, all drivers must still use good judgment and be aware of their surroundings and what might be going on near them. A Round Rock personal injury attorney can represent motorcyclists who were hit by another car after crashing their bike first.

Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? An Experienced Round Rock Personal Injury Lawyer is Here for You

No matter what caused your motorcycle accident, we are here to help. You can receive a complimentary motorcycle accident case consultation at the Elissa I. Henry Law Firm.  Simply call (512) 766-4529 today or complete our online contact form.