Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Jacksonville NC

Motorcycle accidents can cause devastating injuries, and recovery can often be a long and difficult journey. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Jacksonville, the motorcycle accident lawyers at Ward and Smith are ready to help. We have the knowledge and experience to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you’re entitled to. Call us at (919) 827-8475 for a free consultation and learn how we can assist you.

Most Common Reasons Motorcycle Accidents Occur

Motorcycle accidents are a significant concern on the roads, particularly in Jacksonville, where the warm climate makes it a popular place for riders. While motorcyclists enjoy the freedom of an open road, the risk of being involved in an accident remains high. Unlike passengers in cars, motorcyclists don’t have the same level of protection, making them more vulnerable to serious injuries when an accident occurs.

Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help riders stay more alert and avoid potentially dangerous situations. Knowing what causes these accidents can also be critical for anyone involved in a motorcycle crash, as identifying the cause is essential when building a claim for compensation.

Distracted Drivers

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents. Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to being overlooked by distracted drivers. Whether it’s texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or engaging in any other form of distraction, drivers who aren’t paying full attention to the road are more likely to miss seeing a motorcycle.

When a driver is distracted, they might fail to notice a motorcyclist when changing lanes, making turns, or entering intersections. This can lead to side-impact collisions, rear-end crashes, or even a rider being forced off the road.

Riders can avoid some of the risk by staying visible at all times. Wearing bright clothing and using headlights during the day can help make you more noticeable to other drivers. But the best way to minimize risk is to be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on the behavior of nearby drivers.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Speeding is another primary cause of motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles, due to their smaller size, are more susceptible to the dangers posed by high-speed collisions. The impact of an accident at higher speeds can lead to more severe injuries. Many motorcycle crashes happen when drivers fail to adjust their speed for the road conditions or traffic patterns.

Reckless driving, such as tailgating, sudden lane changes, or illegal maneuvers, also leads to a higher risk of motorcycle accidents. In these situations, a motorcyclist can have less time to react, increasing the chance of a collision. Speeding not only reduces reaction time but also impairs a motorcyclist’s ability to control their bike, especially on turns or wet roads.

Motorcyclists are advised to always obey speed limits, adjust their riding speed for the current road conditions, and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to reduce the risk of an accident.

Poor Road Conditions

Poor road conditions are a significant factor in many motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles are more sensitive to the road surface than cars, meaning that potholes, loose gravel, wet conditions, and uneven pavement can cause riders to lose control. A rider may not be able to avoid a pothole or a slick spot on the road as easily as a car could, which increases the risk of an accident.

Motorcyclists should exercise caution when riding on roads that are poorly maintained or when road conditions change rapidly, such as during rainstorms. Being aware of road hazards and slowing down when approaching potentially hazardous areas is one way to avoid an accident caused by poor road conditions.

Motorcycles Making Lane Splitting Moves

Lane splitting is the practice of riding a motorcycle between two lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic. While this may seem like a way to bypass traffic, it is not only dangerous but also illegal in many states, including North Carolina. Even in states where lane splitting is allowed, it can lead to crashes if other drivers are not expecting motorcycles to come through the lanes.

Riders who lane split risk being hit by other vehicles that do not anticipate a motorcycle’s presence between lanes. Additionally, lane splitting may result in an accident if a driver changes lanes without checking their blind spot, not expecting a motorcyclist to be there.

Riders should avoid lane splitting unless they are in a location where it is legally permitted, and even then, they should do so cautiously and at slow speeds.

Left-Hand Turns

Left-hand turns are another major contributor to motorcycle accidents. This type of crash occurs when another vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Drivers may not see the motorcyclist or misjudge the distance and speed at which they’re traveling. This often leads to a collision, particularly at intersections.

Motorcyclists are especially at risk in this situation because they don’t have the same protection as drivers in cars or trucks. When making a left-hand turn, drivers should always check for motorcycles and be cautious of their speed and distance. Motorcyclists, on the other hand, should always be aware of potential turning vehicles and be ready to slow down or change direction if necessary.

Lack of Protective Gear

While not a direct cause of accidents, a lack of protective gear can significantly increase the severity of injuries when a motorcycle crash does occur. Protective gear, such as helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots, can reduce the impact of a crash and decrease the risk of serious injuries like head trauma, broken bones, and road rash.

Motorcyclists who choose not to wear protective gear are at a much higher risk of serious injury. In some states, helmets are required by law, and even in areas where helmets are optional, wearing one is a vital safety precaution. Even the most skilled rider cannot avoid every potential hazard, so it’s crucial to gear up for protection before heading out on the road.

Inexperience and Lack of Training

Inexperienced riders are more likely to make mistakes that lead to accidents. Riding a motorcycle requires a high level of skill and awareness of road conditions, weather, and other drivers. A lack of training can result in a rider misjudging distances, failing to maintain proper control, or making risky decisions.

Riders who have completed formal training courses are less likely to be involved in accidents. These courses teach essential skills, such as handling the motorcycle, braking techniques, cornering, and defensive driving. New riders should always consider taking a motorcycle safety course to increase their skills and confidence on the road.

Drunk or Impaired Driving

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most dangerous activities on the road, regardless of the vehicle. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s reaction time, judgment, and coordination, making it far more likely that they will cause an accident.

In motorcycle accidents, alcohol plays a significant role, as it impairs a rider’s ability to balance and make quick decisions. Whether the rider or another driver is impaired, the chances of a severe accident increase. Motorcyclists and other drivers should never operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs to avoid accidents and injuries.

Protect Your Rights with a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Motorcycle accidents in Jacksonville can result in life-altering injuries, but you don’t have to face the legal complexities alone. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Ward and Smith will work diligently to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (919) 827-8475 for a free consultation and let us help you recover from this difficult experience.