Most Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents in Florida

Motorcycle accidents in Florida can take many different forms and have the potential for serious injuries. This is because they offer little in the way of protection for the riders. However, each type of crash is different and requires its own approach when pursuing compensation.

A Stuart motorcycle accident lawyer from Kogan & DiSalvo can help you understand the types of crashes and how the facts of your case could impact your recovery. We are well-versed in Florida’s negligence laws and have a proven track record of outstanding settlements and verdicts. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions are usually catastrophic. This is especially true when a motorcyclist strikes a larger vehicle like a passenger car or commercial truck. These accidents are devastating because colliding at full speed produces tremendous force that the motorcyclist usually absorbs.

In addition, the sudden stop that comes with these accidents can send a motorcyclist over their handlebars. The secondary impact of being thrown from a motorcycle can cause additional injuries. It can also leave a rider in the path of oncoming traffic.

Lane Splitting Accidents

Lane splitting is a type of accident that is unique to motorcyclists. The term “lane splitting” describes a cyclist who travels between two lanes of slow-moving traffic. It is allowed in California and some foreign countries but illegal in Florida.

Lane splitting is outlawed for several reasons. First, motorcyclists that travel at high speed between slow-moving vehicles usually are unable to respond to changing road conditions. A high-speed collision can occur if a driver attempts to change lanes in front of them.

Distracted Driving Accidents

Distracted driving is not a new phenomenon. However, motorists have never had more options to distract them. Drivers can cause accidents while texting, streaming video, checking email, or even grooming themselves behind the wheel. These drivers are especially dangerous around motorcycles.

Rear-End Collisions

The most common type of motor vehicle collision is the rear-end crash. It occurs when the front-end of a motor vehicle strikes a motorcycle from behind. It is most common at intersections where motorcyclists have come to a stop at a red light.  

In addition, visibility issues can come into play in these cases. A driver traveling too fast might not notice a motorcycle stopped in front of them at a red light until it is too late. Even though riders are not moving, the injuries that can occur from a rear-end crash are often severe.

Left-Turn Accidents

Motorcycle accidents frequently occur in busy intersections. They are most common when a motorist is attempting a left turn. Like many motorcycle accidents, these collisions are usually related to a lack of visibility. Unfortunately, these issues are often made worse in a busy intersection.

Left-turn accidents are common because drivers turning across traffic usually make split-second decisions when entering the intersection. As a result, drivers often turn left into the path of motorcyclists, making it impossible for them to avoid a crash. Striking the side of a turning vehicle at high speed can lead to debilitating physical injuries for motorcyclists.

Drunk Driving Accidents

Impaired driving is one of the major causes of motor vehicle accidents in Florida. Drivers who get behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol are more likely to cause a motorcycle accident. Drunk drivers lack the reaction time to avoid a collision. They also exhibit poor decision-making, which increases the chance of risky behavior.

Drunk drivers are a serious risk to everyone. However, the danger is heightened for motorcyclists. Impaired drivers are unlikely to notice a motorcycle in their path until it is too late.

Dooring

Dooring is a type of accident that impacts bicyclists and motorcycle riders. As the name implies, these accidents happen when a car door strikes them. It can result in serious injuries, especially when the motorcyclist is traveling at high speed. Further, these accidents usually occur on roadways lined with parked vehicles. It usually involves an occupant of a car suddenly opening their door in the path of an oncoming motorcycle. Often, these riders do not have time to avoid a collision.

Single-Vehicle Crashes

There are also single-vehicle collisions that do not result from human error at all. For example, these accidents may occur due to a defective motorcycle part. Accidents can also happen when a poorly-maintained roadway causes a crash. In these situations, it might be possible to file a lawsuit against the motorcycle manufacturer or local government.

Sideswipe Accidents

As the name suggests, a sideswipe accident occurs when the sides of two vehicles traveling parallel to each other collide. It is common among motorcyclists because one of the major threats to riders is the failure of other motorists to watch for them.

Many sideswipe motorcycle accidents result from drivers attempting to change lanes without noticing the motorcycle next to them. Drivers who do not carefully check their blind spots for motorcyclists could strike them with the side of their vehicle as they attempt to change lanes.

Talk to an Attorney About Your Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accidents can have serious—and even fatal—consequences. No matter the collision you are involved in, you have the right to pursue legal action against the person who caused it.

The team at Kogan & DiSalvo is here to help you pursue compensation for your injuries. Our firm can guide your case through the legal system from beginning to end. Before you consider a settlement offer or attempt to file your lawsuit, reach out to our firm for a free consultation.