Blind Spots: The Overlooked Culprit in Many Alabama Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle accidents are a serious concern in Alabama, with numerous factors contributing to these tragic events. Among these factors, one of the most frequently overlooked is the presence of blind spots. Blind spots can severely hinder a driver’s ability to see motorcyclists, leading to dangerous situations on the road.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s time to meet with attorney Aaron Luck to discuss your options. Call McPhillips Shinbaum at 334-262-1911 to set up a consultation with our personal injury team.
Blind Spots and Their Impact on Safety
Blind spots are areas around a vehicle that the driver can’t see directly while driving. In cars, these spots are usually on both sides and behind the vehicle. For motorcyclists, this is especially dangerous because their smaller size makes them easier to miss. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are significantly more at risk than other motorists. They are significantly overrepresented in fatal collisions, accounting for 15% of all fatal crashes in 2022.
In Alabama, motorcycles are quite popular, which increases the risk associated with blind spots. Many accidents happen when drivers change lanes without checking their blind spots, often resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities. It’s important for everyone on the road to be aware of these dangers to prevent tragic accidents.
Common Scenarios Where Blind Spots Lead to Accidents
Blind spots can lead to motorcycle accidents in several typical scenarios. One common situation is when a driver changes lanes without checking their mirrors or looking over their shoulder. This can result in a collision with a motorcyclist hidden in the blind spot. Even when a driver does check their blind spot before changing lanes, they may not notice that a motorcycle is there, since many drivers are used to looking for much larger vehicles.
Merging onto highways is also risky. A driver may not see a motorcycle already in motion while they try to merge, leading to dangerous collisions. Each of these situations underscores the critical need for vigilant driving to prevent accidents involving blind spots.
Legal Implications of Motorcycle Accidents Involving Blind Spots
Motorcycle accidents involving blind spots can have serious legal consequences. If a driver fails to check their blind spots and causes an accident, they may be considered negligent. This means the injured motorcyclist could seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
Unfortunately, it’s not always easy for injured motorcyclists to get fair compensation after a crash; the widespread belief that motorcyclists are inherently careless and negligent often leads injured riders to get far less than they deserve, even when it’s clear that a reckless driver was to blame. That’s why it’s so important for injured riders to seek legal assistance after a crash. It’s one of the easiest ways they can give themselves a shot at full and fair compensation.
The Heightened Dangers Motorcyclists Face
Motorcyclists face unique dangers that are often made worse by the presence of blind spots. Unlike drivers of cars and trucks, motorcyclists do not have the protective barriers that larger vehicles offer. This makes them much more vulnerable in the event of a collision.
Furthermore, because motorcycles are smaller, they can easily be missed by drivers who fail to check their blind spots carefully.
Weather conditions can also increase these risks. Rain, fog, and even strong sunlight can reduce visibility and make it harder for both motorcyclists and other drivers to see each other. In Alabama, sudden summer storms can quickly create dangerous driving conditions. Motorcyclists need to be extra cautious during these times, as decreased visibility and slippery roads can lead to accidents.
These heightened dangers highlight the need for motorcyclists to stay vigilant and for other drivers to be more aware of the presence of motorcycles on the road. Everyone must work together to make the roads safer.
Injured in a Montgomery Motorcycle Accident? Let’s Talk.
When you are ready to take the first step in your motorcycle accident claim, the team at McPhillips Shinbaum is here to support you. Reach out online or give us a call at 334-262-1911 to set up your free case consultation now.