Now that spring is here, many motorcyclists are looking forward to getting back on bikes that have been stored in their garages for the winter. However, those who are looking to hit the road will want to be aware of the risks they may face. Traffic on the roads is likely to increase in the spring and summer, especially since more people are looking to travel after spending the last year staying at home because of the COVID-19 pandemic. With this increase in travel, more motorcycle accidents are likely to occur. In many cases, these types of collisions take place because drivers violate traffic laws. Motorcyclists who have been injured by negligent drivers will want to work with an accident attorney to gather evidence that demonstrates a driver’s liability for their injuries.
Traffic Violations That Put Motorcyclists at Risk
Traffic laws are meant to protect the safety of everyone who uses the roads, including drivers and passengers of motor vehicles, pedestrians, and motorcyclists. A driver may be at fault for injuries suffered by a motorcyclist if they commit the following types of violations:
- Speeding – Speed limits are meant to ensure that vehicles can drive safely in a particular area. Drivers who exceed the speed limit may be unable to slow down in time to avoid colliding with a motorcycle that is making a turn. Speeding may also cause a driver to lose control of their vehicle and strike a motorcycle.
- Following too closely – Drivers who do not maintain a proper distance between their vehicle and a motorcycle in front of them may not have enough time to reduce their speed when a motorcyclist slows down or stops. When a vehicle strikes a motorcycle from behind, this could knock the motorcyclist off their bike and cause serious injuries.
- Right-of-way violations – Drivers are required to yield the right-of-way when making a left turn or a U-turn at an intersection, when entering a highway, when approaching an intersection with a through highway, or in locations where signs require them to yield. Collisions can occur when a driver does not respect a motorcyclist’s right-of-way.
- Disobeying traffic signs and signals – A driver who illegally proceeds through a yellow or red light or does not stop at an intersection with a stop sign may collide with a motorcyclist in the intersection.
- Operating while intoxicated (OWI) – Drivers who violate the laws against drunk or drugged driving may experience impairment to their vision that causes them to fail to see motorcycles. They may also suffer decreased reaction times that make it difficult or impossible to slow down or stop in time to avoid colliding with motorcycles.
- Distracted driving – Drivers should not engage in any activity that interferes with their ability to drive safely, including sending text messages or talking on a cell phone. Distractions may cause drivers to fail to see motorcyclists, and they may collide with motorcycles or run them off the road when changing lanes or making turns.
Contact Our Green Bay Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
At Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd., we can investigate the circumstances surrounding a motorcycle accident and gather evidence to show that a driver violated traffic laws and caused the collision. Evidence may include police reports, 911 call recordings, photos, footage from security or traffic cameras, and witness statements. We will work to hold a negligent driver responsible and ensure that you are fully compensated for your injuries and damages. Contact our Appleton motorcycle accident attorneys at 920-739-7366 to set up your free consultation.
Sources:
https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/346