Taking a motorcycle ride on a beautiful day can be exhilarating. However, motorcycle accidents are common, and can lead to catastrophic injury or death. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a crash, you need an experienced PA motorcycle accident lawyer who understands the nuances of these collisions and how to prove who was at fault. Our motor vehicle injury lawyers at Thomas, Conrad & Conrad Law Offices have decades of experience handling cases involving motorcycle crashes in Pennsylvania. Unfortunately, we’ve represented clients injured at intersections all too often.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), 19.5% of crashes including injury and 6% of fatal accidents involved motorcycles in 2022. The NHTSA reports that in 2021, there were 5,932 motorcycle fatalities U.S., the highest number of motorcyclists killed since 1975. In addition, an estimated 82,686 motorcyclists were injured, and 35% of all fatal crashes occurred at intersections. Motorcycle accident lawyers in Pennsylvania are well aware of how dangerous intersections can be for motorcyclists and advise riders to always wear a helmet and stay alert and sober on the road.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents at Intersections
Knowing the causes of motorcycle accidents at intersections can help you avoid them. Some of the most common causes of crashes in intersections include:
- Other drivers or motorcyclists running red lights or stop signs
- Motorists failing to check for motorcycles before turning
- Failing to yield to motorcyclists turning or traveling through an intersection
- Distracted driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Visual obstructions that prevent drivers from seeing a motorcyclists
- Speeding motorists hitting a stopped motorcycle at an intersection
- Inclement weather
- Obstructions in the road
Each situation is unique, and there are countless ways in which motorcycle crashes can happen at intersections. A motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate your case, determine how a motor vehicle collision happened, and identify who may be at fault and responsible for your injuries and other damages.
Avoiding Motorcycle Accidents at Intersections
Although you have no control over what other drivers do, you can still practice caution and take steps to reduce the risk of being involved in a motorcycle intersection accident.
Slow Down
Slowing down when approaching an intersection helps give you time to stop and avoid rear-end collisions and makes it easier to observe potential dangers that may lie ahead. Even if a light is green, check both ways to look for oncoming motorists and those who may turn in front of you.
Pay Attention
Looking ahead and paying attention while riding your bike is a must. Keep an eye out for obstruction in the road, sudden lane changes, cars running red lights, and vehicles turning at intersections. If someone is driving recklessly, stay as far away from them as you can. Not all drivers use turn signals like they should, so if a motorist appears to be preparing to turn, make sure to avoid them.
Look for Obstructions that Block Your View
Traffic signs, advertising, buildings, trees, bushes, other obstructions can prevent you from seeing around a corner at an intersection. It’s important to remember that if you can’t see a vehicle, the driver can’t see you either. If you encounter a visual obstruction, slow down and proceed carefully.
Be More Visible
Many motorists don’t notice motorcycles at intersections because of their small size. To ensure you’re as visible as possible, wear reflective gear and put reflective strips on your bike. Always check your lights before you hit the road and keep them on while riding.
What to Do If You’re Involved in a Motorcycle Accident
Even the most cautious motorcyclist can be injured in a crash. Taking the following steps can help protect your rights and provide valuable documentation for a potential motorcycle accident claim:
Check yourself for injuries and move to a safe area if you can. Call 911 and wait for the police to arrive. If possible, take photos of your bike and the accident scene, including damage to all vehicles and your injuries. Ask other drivers for contact and insurance information and get the names and info of any witnesses. Promptly seeking medical attention is also vital. Symptoms of serious conditions like internal bleeding may not appear right away. Failing to get the care you need can result in more serious injury or death.
Talk to An Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
One of the most important things you can do to protect your rights and interests is to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Pennsylvania as soon as you can. Hiring the best motorcycle accident lawyers with a track record of success like Thomas, Conrad & Conrad can increase your chances of recovering fair compensation and take some of the weight off your shoulders. A personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of your case, including negotiating with insurance companies. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will advocate on your behalf and fight to help you recover the maximum compensation you need to heal and overcome the physical, emotional, and financial obstacles you may face due to your injury.
Contact a Lehigh Valley Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
At Thomas, Conrad & Conrad Law Offices, we understand how devastating the fallout from motorcycle crashes can be. For more than 40 years, we’ve provided competent, compassionate legal representation to personal injury clients in the Lehigh Valley. To schedule your consultation with a PA motorcycle accident attorney, contact us online or call us at 610-867-2900. We’re proud to serve clients at several convenient locations in eastern Pennsylvania.