Unfortunately, many people are unaware of the dangers of improper left turns. However, a considerable percentage of motorcycle accidents in Haines City are caused by someone attempting a left turn and then crashing with a motorcycle that had the right-of-way. Below, this motorcycle accident attorney in Haines City, Florida is going to discuss everything you’ll need to know about motorcycle accidents that are caused by improper left turns.
Left Turn Motorcycle Accidents: An Overview
Motorcycle accidents can have devastating consequences because motorcycles lack the protection that passenger vehicles provide to their drivers and passengers. However, among the many different types of motorcycle accidents, left turn accidents account for roughly 36% of fatal crashes.
According to a recent NBC DFW news report, a 20-year-old motorcyclist was killed in a traffic collision. According to local authorities, the motorcyclist was heading east on his motorcycle when a westbound SUV attempted to turn left. The SUV started to turn when the motorcyclist collided with its right side. The motorcyclist was rushed to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries and died.
Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Occur?
As any knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney in Haines City will tell you, several factors can contribute to a left turn accident involving motorcycles.
Motorcycles are sometimes hit by passenger vehicles when the driver fails to see the motorcyclist. This often happens when a right-of-way motorcyclist rides straight through a green light. A passenger vehicle turning left may miss the motorcyclist and crash with them.
The driver could also be driving under the influence, distracted while driving (by their phone or someone in the backseat), or exhausted from driving for hours. It can also be the case that the driver may fail to see the motorcyclist due to poor weather conditions or low visibility at night.
Regardless of the cause of the accident, drivers who are at fault may be held liable under Florida law and may be required to compensate the injured person. As always, you can speak with one of our motorcycle accident attorneys in Haines City, Florida to learn more.
How to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents
Even the most cautious and observant driver or motorcyclist may not be able to prevent a traffic collision. Fortunately, there are several things that both parties can do to reduce the risk of a crash and keep everyone safe on the road.
Visibility while riding can make a big difference for motorcyclists, especially at night or when the weather makes it almost impossible for them to navigate the roads. Our Haines City, Florida motorcycle accident attorneys recommend using LED or xenon lights to see the road ahead, and wearing bright-colored clothing, helmet, and other riding gear to make yourself more visible to passenger vehicle drivers. It is also a good idea to drive defensively, and as though other motorists cannot see you. This heightened awareness can allow you to ride more proactively and cautiously, reducing the risk of a traffic collision.
Passenger vehicle drivers can also exercise caution by driving within the speed limit, double-checking the mirrors before changing lanes or turning, and keeping an eye out for vehicles in their blind spots.
Looking for the Premier Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Haines City, Florida?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in the Haines City area, please do not hesitate to contact the team at O’Toole Law Group to discuss your potential claim. As the premier motorcycle accident attorneys in Haines City, Florida, our team handles all types of motorcycle accident claims every year, and we can work hard to win you the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at 863-533-5525, or contact us online and a member of our staff will reach out to you as soon as possible.
