Des Moines Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Advises Caution

As central Iowa welcomes warmer temperatures, many motorcyclists have taken to the roads to enjoy the newly green landscape and the emerging spring blooms. However, caution is advised when heading out for the first ride of 2017. After the long absence of riders during the winter months, many motorists simply do not see motorcycles, which is the cause of many car and motorcycle accidents.

Why doesn’t the average driver see a motorcyclist? First of all, drivers do not expect to see motorcycles especially after riders have been off the roads for several months. Even after the season is up and running, motorists tend to look for other cars and trucks when navigating the roads, missing motorcycles that are smaller and harder to see.

Iowa Distracted Driving Car Accident

Add to that, the modern day distractions of texting, emailing or checking in on social media that many motorists engage in while driving, and motorcycles run a higher risk of being struck by a motorist.

Because riders lack the protection of an enclosed vehicle, they are more likely to be injured or killed in a motorcycle accident. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2015, 88,0000 motorcyclists were injured in motorcycle crashes and nearly five thousand people died, an 8.3 percent increase over the previous year.

The Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

The most common motorcycle accident occurs when a car turns left in front of a motorcycle at an intersection. It may be a matter of inattention, distraction, blind spots or ‘they just don’t see you’. Other common accidents that can result in a rider injury are being struck from behind, cars changing lanes into a motorcycle and even opening a car door in the path of a rider – all of which can lead to an injury accident.

Of course as a motorcycle enthusiast, it is important to take a motorcycle safety course, which will alert you to the possibilities and provide ways to avoid an accident. Adding the right gear such as protective and easily seen clothing is essential too.

Even when motorcycle riders take all the precautions, they may still come up against a negligent motorist who may not be paying attention or going too fast, which can cost a motorcyclist’s life or health. In fact, motorcycle accidents are rarely the motorcyclist’s fault so motorists should make a conscious effort to ‘see motorcycles’ to avoid a collision.

Contact a Des Moines Iowa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a family member is injured in an Iowa Motorcycle Accident, contact the Iowa personal injury Law Offices of John T. Hemminger. Our attorneys have successfully represented many motorcycle accident victims and their families in personal injury and wrongful death claims and we welcome the opportunity to help you. Call or email us at 515-283-2116.