Accidents on the road are all too commonplace. It’s safe to say that most drivers are aware of the risks and take extra precautions to ensure their safety and the safety of others when they are on the road. However, even the safest drivers may be surprised to learn they have a psychological blind spot when it comes to the motorcycle.

Urban areas are home to large motorcyclist populations. The excellent gas mileage, easy maneuverability, and initial cost of the vehicle make motorcycles an attractive option for city-dwellers who want to save money and time in getting from place to place. Unfortunately, this seemingly cheaper option comes with a high price – a fatality rate in accidents that is 35% higher than the fatality rate for drivers of automobiles.

Many attribute this high fatality rate to the lack of vehicle protection that a motorcycle provides or the negligence of the driver to wear protective gear and operate the vehicle responsibly. Our Alabama motorcycle accident attorney knows that statistics show a different story. Findings from multiple studies show that the majority of motorcycle accidents are actually caused by the negligence of automobile drivers.

#1 Cause: The Psychological Blind Spot

An interesting phenomenon occurs in some drivers who, though they may have cleared the road, did not see a motorcycle simply because they were looking for an automobile. Some have dubbed this a driver’s psychological blind spot. Other times, drivers do not see motorcycles simply because of negligence. The driver may not be checking their physical blind spots or be distracted by their phone and radio. Whether it’s a psychological blind spot, physical blind spot, or unsafe driving, the greatest danger to motorcyclists is the negligence of other vehicles.

At Alabama Wreck Lawyer and The Self Law Firm, we understand the dangers motorcyclists face every day. We want to do our part in spreading awareness of the leading causes of motorcycle injuries and minimize the tragedies that occur on the road, especially ones caused by a lack of motorcycle visibility.

Tips for Motorcyclists

• Wear bright protective gear
• Stay out of blind spots
• Invest in a light modulator

Tips for Drivers

• Check your blind spot
• Wait to turn in front of oncoming motorcycles
• Put down your phone

Other Causes: Dangerous Roads and Defective Parts

Other variables to take into consideration when assessing your motorcycle accident are dangerous roadways and defective equipment. An un-maintained roadway can be detrimental to motorcyclists, with every bump and crack in the pavement posing a safety hazard. It is possible for government organizations to be held accountable for accidents caused by these unsafe environments.

If it’s not your surroundings, it is also possible that your motorcycle has a defective part. Whether it was poor testing or manufacturing, occasionally a faulty product makes it into a motorcycle with drastic consequences. In this case, it may be possible to pursue compensation from the parts manufacturer.

Have you recently gotten into a motorcycle accident in Alabama? If a driver didn’t signal a lane change, check their blind spot, or was distracted by other events which caused a collision, you deserve compensation.

The Self Law Firm can help you get every penny you deserve.
Call 205-647-1000