Distracted driving poses a significant threat to road safety, particularly for vulnerable road users like motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. As drivers increasingly engage in activities like texting, eating, or texting while behind the wheel, motorcyclists face ever-growing dangers. Understanding the link between distracted driving and motorcycle accidents is crucial for those who use the road and who are affected directly by these accidents.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a Montgomery motorcycle accident, don’t wait any longer to find out if you’re entitled to compensation. Call McPhillips Shinbaum at 334-262-1911 to set up a consultation with our team.

The Dangers of Distracted Driving

Distracted driving refers to any activity that diverts a driver’s attention away from the demanding task of operating a vehicle. Common distractions include using smartphones, eating or drinking, grooming, adjusting the radio or GPS, and interacting with passengers. Studies have shown that distracted driving significantly impairs a driver’s ability to detect and react to potential hazards on the road, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Distractions are generally classified into three separate categories: cognitive, manual, and visual. Some activities, such as texting, fit into all three categories.

Why Motorcyclists Are at Greater Risk

Motorcyclists are inherently more vulnerable on the road than occupants of enclosed vehicles. Unlike cars or trucks, motorcycles lack the protective structure of a vehicle, leaving riders exposed to the full force of impact in the event of a collision. On the other hand, occupants of standard passenger vehicles benefit from crumple zones that absorb much of the force of a crash. The protection that motorcyclists do have comes largely from their helmets and any other protective gear they use.

Additionally, motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, making them more susceptible to being overlooked by distracted drivers. As a result, motorcyclists face a heightened risk of severe injuries or fatalities when involved in accidents caused by distracted driving.

How Distracted Driving Causes Motorcycle Accidents

Distracted driving can lead to motorcycle accidents in various ways. One common scenario is when a distracted driver misjudges a motorcyclist’s speed and distance. This leads to a collision at intersections or during a lane change. Additionally, distracted drivers may exhibit erratic behavior on the road, such as swerving or sudden braking. This behavior puts motorcyclists at risk of being struck from behind or forced off the road. Distractions can impair a driver’s ability to maintain proper control of their vehicle.

Consider this: drivers are generally far less likely to see motorcycles than they are to see other vehicles. Motorcycles are smaller and easier to miss during a quick glance. This effect is multiplied when a driver is already distracted and giving just a shred of their attention to the road. By the time they realize a motorcyclist is in their path, it may be too late to take corrective action.

Legal Options for Injured Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists injured in accidents caused by distracted driving have legal recourse to seek compensation for their injuries and damages. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, injured motorcyclists may pursue a personal injury claim against the liable driver. This can be an uphill battle for some motorcyclists, as many people still assume the worst of motorcyclists and blame accidents on them regardless of what the evidence says.

That’s why it’s so important to talk to a lawyer as soon as possible after an accident. Motorcyclists often suffer enormous physical and financial losses in these collisions, but drivers’ policies aren’t quick to pay out what victims owe. The sooner you begin working with an attorney on your case, the more time they have to gather necessary evidence, prove the other party’s liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve. If your accident is caused by distracted driving, they may look for evidence proving the driver’s focus at the time of the accident. For example, phone records may show that the driver was texting or using social media.

Contact McPhillips Shinbaum to Start Your Claim

At McPhillips Shinbaum, attorney Aaron Luck helps accident victims like you fight for justice. Take the first step now—schedule a consultation by calling us at 334-262-1911 or connecting with us online.