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Congested New Jersey roadways present unique challenges for vehicles of all sizes. In addition to drivers of commercial trucks and passenger cars, motorcyclists have an increased presence on busy highways and inner-city roads.
As such, New Jersey motorcycle accident attorneys advise drivers to heighten their awareness of motorcyclists to avoid vehicle collisions and motorcycle wrecks.
What’s the most common cause of a crash between a car and motorcycle? Let’s take a look.
3 Types of Motorcycle vs. Car Wrecks in New Jersey
1. Head-on Crashes with a Motorcyclist
Over half of all motorcycle fatalities result from head-on collisions. The majority of these incidents are caused by a vehicle striking the motorcyclist from the front.
Head-on collisions often occur when a driver attempts to pass another vehicle and fails to see an oncoming motorcyclist. Driving close to or over the road’s centerline also creates potential for a collision.
2. Cars Making Left-Turns
Left-turning cars present some of the most dangerous situations for motorcyclists.
A motorcycle’s small size makes it less visible to drivers navigating a left turn. Failure of left-turning drivers to see or accurately perceive an oncoming motorcycle’s speed is a tragic mistake.
3. Lane Switching and Blind-spots
When a driver wants to change lanes, they are responsible for making sure the road is clear of traffic. Often, motorcyclists are small enough to go undetected when positioned in the blindspot of a passenger vehicle, or worse, of a commercial truck.
If a vehicle merges into a lane occupied by a motorcyclist, the motorcyclist may not have enough time to react safely and escape the collision. Passenger car and commercial drivers should make every effort to signal their lane change and verify that the change is safe to make:
- Use a traffic signal to indicate the lane change
- Check their mirrors
- Look over their shoulder into their blindspot
- Merge slowly to allow a motorcyclist time to maneuver if necessary
The #1 Cause of Crashes Between Motorcycles and Cars
Ultimately, when examining the different types of crashes common between motorcycles and cars, there is one commonality: driver negligence.
All drivers have a responsibility to be aware of the road and consider road conditions such as:
- Motorcyclists
- Pedestrians and bicyclists
- Road hazards
And, taking precautions that include:
- Avoiding distracted driving
- Using turn signals
- Checking mirrors and blind spots
- Driving the speed limit
- Staying in your lane
When drivers fail to remain alert to road conditions and exercise care and caution behind the wheel, they place everyone around them at risk.
Do You Need Help From a Motorcycle Injury Attorney?
Drivers and motorcyclists must share the road and be alert to their surroundings and each other.
With motorcyclists being more vulnerable to accidents, it’s critical everyone does their part to create a safe travel environment. However, even given the best intentions, motorcycle crashes can still happen.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may have a claim for damages against the negligent party.
To learn more motorcycle accident claims, contact our New Jersey law firm today. We will connect you with an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney who can assess your situation and give you the guidance you need. Get in touch with our office today.