Motorcycles are increasingly becoming the most preferred means of transportation in Tennessee. Their popularity is anchored on their low maintenance cost and environmental friendliness compared to cars.
While motorcycles are a lifesaver, riding them on roads alongside other negligent motorists and vehicles often results in accidents. If you are a motorist, you should learn more about motorcycle accidents and how to deal with them.
No matter how much protective gear you wear, there is little protection against reckless road users. In most accidents, motorists always end up getting hurt badly, with others suffering fatal injuries.
That is why it is essential to report any accidents, and if need be, one should seek the counsel of a motorcycle accident lawyer to get compensation.
The Cost Of Hiring A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The actual cost of hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in Tennessee varies due to the complexity of your case, the experience of the lawyer, and their fee structure. However, most attorneys work on a contingency fee basis with personal injury cases like motorcycle accidents.
This means that the lawyer’s payment is contingent on successfully recovering compensation for the client. The attorney would then take a cut of up to 40% of the settlement. With such an arrangement, the client doesn’t owe the attorney any fees if the case is unsuccessful.
How Frequent Are Motorcycle Accidents In Tennessee?
There has been a steady increase in motorcycle accidents in Tennessee in 2023.
According to an article published by wate.com on May 25th, 2023, there were 64 fatal motorcycle accidents from January to that date. Data from TDOS also indicated 21 reported motorcycle deaths during the same time in East Tennessee.
This is an alarming upward trend compared to 50 cases reported during the same period in 2022.
Leading Causes For Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, resulting in severe injuries or even loss of life. Understanding the leading causes of these accidents is vital for riders and motorists, as it will save lives. Some of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents are;
1. Negligent Drivers
Negligence from drivers and other motorists is a primary cause of motorcycle accidents. Actions like changing lanes without checking blind spots, sudden lane shifts without indication, or distracted driving often result in accidents.
Statistically, most motorcycle accidents result from drivers making unsafe lane changes. When this happens, motorcyclists can be easily overlooked in traffic, leading to collisions during lane maneuvers.
Of all road users, motorcycle riders are the most vulnerable to these lapses in attention and awareness. Increased awareness and careful signaling can help prevent these incidents.
2. Speeding
We all know the adrenaline rush that comes with riding a motorcycle. While it is fun, excessive speeding significantly contributes to fatal motorcycle accidents.
High speeds reduce a rider’s reaction time, making reacting to sudden traffic changes or unexpected obstacles difficult. Riders should adhere to speed limits and adjust their speed according to road conditions to keep safe.
3. Poor Road Conditions
Balancing a motorcycle takes more skill and effort than driving. Uneven road surfaces, potholes, and debris pose a significant risk to motorists. Riders must avoid risky areas and stay alert to road conditions to be safe.
4. Weather Conditions
Extreme weather conditions like rain, snow, or strong winds can also lead to motorcycle accidents. These adverse conditions make the roads slippery and reduce visibility, leading to a higher risk of accidents.
5. Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence is one of the leading causes of all accidents on American roads. According to NHTSA, 31 percent (31%) of all traffic crash fatalities in the United States are caused by drunk drivers.
Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and coordination, significantly increasing the likelihood of accidents. The risk of these accidents is higher for motorcycle riders. Avoiding riding while under the influence will go a long way in dealing with motorcycle accident cases.
Common Types Of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can manifest in various forms, each posing its risks. Some of the most common motorcycle accidents include;
1. Rear-end Collisions
It occurs when a vehicle crashes into the back of a motorcycle. Such accidents often result from distracted driving, sudden stops, or misjudgment of the motorcyclist’s speed.
2. Intersection Accidents
Road intersections are a hotspot for motorcycle accidents. This is especially true when other drivers fail to yield the right way or overlook oncoming motorcycles.
Left-turn collisions, where a car turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle, are the most common manifestations of these intersection accidents.
3. T-Bone Collisions
T-Bone collisions, commonly referred to as side impact collisions, occur when a vehicle crashes into the side of a motorcycle. Such accidents often occur at road intersections due to drivers running red lights or failing to yield.
4. Head-to-Head Accidents
These accidents result when a vehicle fails to see an oncoming motorcycle and rams into it head-on. Such accidents often happen when a car moves into a motorcycle lane during a lane maneuver.
5 Tips to Avoid Motorcycle Accidents
- Always stay visible on the road. Wear bright, reflective gear, especially during low-light conditions, and position yourself in the lane where drivers are more likely to notice you.
- Anticipate potential hazards and be prepared to react. Be especially cautious at intersections and approach them with the mindset that a vehicle might only sometimes yield the right way.
- Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you, allowing enough time to react to sudden stops or changes in traffic conditions.
- Invest time perfecting your riding skills, especially if you are a newbie or getting back on the motorcycle after a long break.
- Adjust your riding style according to prevailing weather conditions. In adverse conditions, slow down, increase your following distance, and maintain laser-sharp focus while on the road.
Conclusion
Motorcycles are a popular means of transport in this modern era. While these vessels have many benefits, they also have a heightened risk of accidents.
Although there is much riders can do to stay safe on the road, sometimes unprecedented accidents do occur. Access to a good motorcycle accident lawyer can be beneficial when dealing with an accident case.
Winning such a case calls for a defense counsel with expertise in personal injury law. Every rider deserves protection on the road, and if this is denied, then fair compensation is the least asked.