San Francisco is the perfect city to get around in by motorcycle any time of the year. Unfortunately, not all of these rides end well. Although motorcycles are regularly seen on the city’s roads, motor vehicle drivers still do not watch for these smaller vehicles the same way they do other cars and trucks. Negligent drivers often cause motorcycle accidents that leave bikers in immense pain and with expensive medical bills. If you have been in a motorcycle crash due to one of the main causes listed below, or any other, it is imperative that you speak to a San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
Left-Turning VehiclesWhen vehicles are making a left-hand turn, it is particularly risky for motorcyclists. Drivers may look ahead to ensure there is no oncoming traffic, but they often do not see motorcycles. As the vehicle makes the left turn, the biker travels straight through the intersection and is struck by the driver.
Lane ChangesAll vehicles have blind spots on either side, and an entire motorcycle and rider can fit within a vehicle’s blind spot. Drivers are still responsible for properly checking their blind spots and making sure it is safe to change lanes before they do so. When they fail to, they crash directly into the motorcycle and cause an accident.
Drunk DrivingDrunk driving causes many different types of accidents on the roads every year, and motorcycle crashes are no different. Impaired drivers have slowed reflexes, show poor judgment, and cannot properly concentrate on the road ahead of them. All of these can cause an impaired driver to fail to see a motorcyclist, or not leave enough space between their vehicle and a bike and crash into them. Accident claims involving drunk drivers can be tricky, which is why it is best to get help and guidance from a San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer.
Distracted DrivingIt is illegal for any driver to not only text and drive in San Francisco, but to also hold any mobile device while behind the wheel. Still, too many motorists engage in this type of behavior while they are on the roads. When motorists take their eyes off the road for even a second, they fail to see vehicles, including motorcycles, and crash into them. It can be difficult to prove that a driver was using a phone at the time of an accident and so, injured bikers should always contact a motorcycle accident attorney in San Francisco who can help them obtain proper evidence.
SpeedingSpeeding does not only cause accidents, it also increases the severity of these crashes. This is particularly true when a biker is involved in a crash due to the fact that unlike motorists in cars and trucks, motorcyclists are completely exposed.
Hurt in a Crash? Call Us TodayIf you have been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you should not attempt to file a claim on your own. At the Brod Law Firm, we are the motorcycle accident attorneys in San Francisco who will collect evidence to prove your claim, help you get the medical treatment you need, and negotiate with the other side so you get a fair settlement. If you are injured, call us today at (800) 427-7020 for your free consultation.