The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration states that more than 25 percent of two-vehicle motorcycle accidents (one vehicle being the motorcycle) are rear-end crashes. Their data also shows that the motorcycle is the striking vehicle in 68 percent of rear-end collisions between motorcycles and passenger vehicles.
Rear-end motorcycle crashes can be catastrophic, especially for the motorcyclist who is particularly vulnerable on the road. Even in a fender-bender where a car lightly hits a motorcycle from behind, a motorcyclist can be thrown from their vehicle and suffer traumatic injuries. In cases like these, you may need a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney to help you recover the money you need for medical bills and lost wages.
Preventing Rear-End Collisions
Since motorcycles strike passenger vehicles in most of these accidents, let’s talk about how motorcyclists can prevent rear-end crashes. Many of these collisions take place when the vehicle in front makes a sudden stop or pulls a dangerous maneuver like cutting in front of a motorcycle on the road. As a motorcyclist, you may not have time to stop or evade the other vehicle. Here are four ways motorcyclists can prevent a rear-end disaster.
Keep an Eye on Other Drivers
Be aware of the cars around you. Watch to see if anyone is driving dangerously or erratically and get away from them as safely and as quickly as you can. Remember that you’re more vulnerable than drivers in passenger vehicles.
Remain Aware
Check your mirrors when slowing your motorcycle to make sure the vehicle behind you is slowing also. If it’s continuing at top speed, you know they’re not paying attention to traffic and you might need to get out of the way so you don’t get hit. Keep the bike in gear so you can maneuver if you need to and stay aware of your escape route. If you suddenly need to get out of the way of a distracted driver, you should have a plan of where to go. Remember that a distracted driver is a negligent driver, so if you do get hit, consider calling a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney.
Maintain a Safe Distance Between Vehicles
When stopping, leave ample space between your motorcycle and the car ahead. If you’re too close, you may not be able to move in an emergency situation.
Stay Visible
When driving through slow-moving traffic or when traffic slows down up ahead, it’s a good idea to make sure you’re visible to the driver behind you. Tap your brakes so the lights will flash and get the driver’s attention to alert them that you’re slowing.
If you’ve been hurt in a rear-end motorcycle collision caused by a negligent driver, you may be able to collect compensation for your damages and injuries.
