Motorcycle Accident Tips for Other Drivers

Attorney Grant Travis | Travis Law Firm | Personal Injury Attorney, DUI Defense Attorney, Criminal Defense Attorney | Serving Erie, Crawford, Warren & all of Northwestern PA | Call the Travis Law Firm at 814-277-2222 today!

In many of the blogs you read, we provide tips for motorcyclists on how to avoid accidents. However, it is equally important for other motorists to be vigilant in taking steps to avoid causing a motorcycle crash. All motorists should practice safe driving habits to reduce the risk of injuring a  motorcyclist.

Seven Common Factors in Motorcycle Accidents

Many factors contribute to motorcycle accidents. Some of these factors cannot be controlled while other factors are avoidable. Road conditions and weather conditions may not be something a motorist can plan for or avoid. However, actions by motorists that contribute to motorcycle accidents include:

  • Distracted driving
  • Speeding
  • Failing to yield the right of way
  • Impaired driving (drunk driving and drugged driving)
  • Following too closely
  • Dooring (opening door in front of a motorcyclist)
  • Drifting into another lane

Motorists who are not paying attention the road can easily run into the rear of a motorcycle or turn left in front of a motorcycle. For many riders, the most dangerous conditions they face while riding is other drivers because they cannot predict with another driver may do, nor can they control what another driver does behind the wheel. When you are behind the wheel, only you can take steps to avoid causing a motorcycle crash.

How Can You Prevent a Motorcycle Crash?

Practicing safe driving habits is the best way to avoid causing a motorcycle accident. There is no secret to preventing a motorcycle crash. The very same safe driving habits that help reduce your risk of being injured in a car crash are the same safe driving habits that can help you avoid causing a motorcycle accident.

Safe driving habits that all motorists should follow when behind the wheel of a vehicle include:

  • Never drink and drive or drive while under the influence of drugs. Some over-the-counter medications and prescription medications can interfere with driving ability.
  • Do not drive while fatigued or drowsy.
  • Avoid speeding, following too closely, and reckless driving.
  • Always pay attention to the road ahead. Driving while distracted is one of the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents.
  • Before turning left, double check to make sure you are not turning in front of a motorcycle or other vehicle.
  • When opening doors facing the street, check to ensure you are not opening the door in front of oncoming traffic.
  • Before merging into another lane or changing lanes, double check your blind spots for motorcyclists.

A motorcyclist can take every precaution to avoid an accident, but the rider cannot control your actions. Practice safe driving habits to reduce the risk that you take someone’s life or cause traumatic injuries in a motorcycle crash.

Have You Been Injured by Another Driver?

If another driver caused your motorcycle crash, you might be entitled to recover compensation for your injuries and other damages. However, you need to file an accident claim to protect your right to recover money for your injuries. Our Erie motorcycle accident lawyers can help you investigate the cause of your motorcycle crash and file a claim against the negligent driver who caused the crash.

Call The Travis Law Firm at (800) 401-2066 to request a free legal consultation with our Erie motorcycle accident attorney. Our law firm fights for the rights of motorcyclists in Pennsylvania.