It has been estimated that motorcycles colliding with fixed objects accounts for nearly 25% of motorcyclist deaths. In late May 2016, this proved to be true for a young man and woman who were travelling eastbound on Washington Boulevard.
Just after midnight, a man and woman were driving past Santa Fe Avenue when the driver of the motorcycle lost control at a curve and hit the center divider. Both the driver and his female passenger were ejected from the motorcycle.
Neither were wearing a helmet.
The male driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The woman was transported to the hospital where she was pronounced dead.
Motorcyclist Negligence Not the Only Cause for Motorcycle Accidents
Speed and drugs/alcohol are sometimes a factor in motorcycle accidents, but this is not always the case. Other factors which often cause motorcycle accidents include:
- Other Drivers. Accidents involving other vehicles and motorcycles account for 56% of motorcycle accident deaths. 78% of these accidents involve a vehicle striking a vehicle from behind. Vehicles making left hand turns also account for 42% of all accidents which involve a motorcycle and another vehicle.
- Road Hazards. Because motorcycles are smaller and less stable in nature than cars, road hazards such as potholes, slick pavement, uneven lane heights and unexpected objects pose a serious safety threat.
- Defective Parts/Equipment. Defective parts or equipment can also be partially if not fully to blame for a motorcycle-related accident.
Staying Safe on the Road
In the Washington Boulevard accident, both the driver and the passenger of the motorcycle might still have been alive if they had been wearing appropriate safety gear.
Motorcyclists should also be particularly aware that all vehicles have blind spots. If you cannot see a driver’s eyes in their vehicle mirrors, they may not be able to see you. Spend as little time as possible in these blind spots and be aware of any signs that a vehicle may be changing lanes (i.e. the turn signal is engaged, the wheels are turning, the driver’s head is moving, etc.)
When to Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Binder & Associates offers free consultations to anyone who has been involved in a motorcycle accident. Whether you are seeking advice on the settlement value of your claim, think that fault may be an issue or are being treated unfairly by an insurance company, our Encino auto accident lawyers can help.
We invite you to arrange for your no obligation consultation today at (818) 659-8588.
