Standing Up For Injured Motorcyclists

While hitting the road on a motorcycle can be an exciting way to explore Ohio’s roadways, motorcyclists are also at a much higher risk than other drivers in the event of an accident. Data from The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2020 indicated that motorcyclists were four times more likely to suffer an injury and 28 times more likely to die in an accident than occupants of other vehicles. At Robenalt Law, we understand the many ways that an accident can impact a motorcyclist’s life. Our motorcycle accident lawyer helps injured motorcyclists hold drivers and other parties responsible for their part in an accident and pursue the compensation they need to heal. Based in Cleveland, we work with clients throughout Cleveland, Columbus, Toledo and Akron, as well as throughout Ohio.

What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?

Unfortunately, many drivers on Ohio roadways do not take adequate precautions to protect motorcyclists from harm. Some of the many ways that a driver’s negligence can harm a motorcyclist include:

  • Sudden stops or lane changes. When a car changes lanes or stops without warning, a motorcyclist may not have the time to respond to that action.
  • Opening car doors without checking for traffic. If a driver in a parked vehicle opens their door into the path of a motorcycle, the motorcyclist may strike the door or be forced to swerve into traffic to avoid it.
  • Driving over the speed limit. Speeding significantly reduces a driver’s ability to control their own vehicle as well as respond to other vehicles. Higher speeds also lead to more forceful impacts and more serious injuries.
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. While drunk or drugged driving can put any motorists at risk, motorcyclists are significantly less protected than drivers and passengers in cars, trucks or other vehicles. This can leave them especially vulnerable to harm in a collision.
  • Making left turns. A driver’s failure to stop, yield right of way, or judge the distance or speed of an oncoming motorcyclist before making a left turn can result in serious accidents.

In addition to the hazards caused by negligent drivers, motorcyclists may me more vulnerable to the hazards of unsafe roadways. Potholes, debris, damaged pavement, a lack of traffic signs and other dangerous conditions can put motorcyclists at risk.

Can Motorcyclists Protect Their Safety?

Any accident can lead to severe injuries for motorcyclists, including brain injuries, spinal injuries and broken bones. Riders can take steps to protect themselves when they hit the road. Some of these safety precautions include:

  • Wearing safety gear like helmets, goggles, leather pants and jacket and other gear
  • Inspecting your motorcycle before each ride
  • Avoiding other vehicles’ blind spots
  • Using signals when turning or changing lanes
  • Staying a safe distance away from other vehicles when possible

Accidents still happen even when motorcyclists take these precautions. Fortunately, injured motorcyclists do not have to face the aftermath of these collisions alone.

With an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney on their side, they can hold negligent parties responsible for their part in the accident. The right legal strategy can also help injured motorcyclists pursue compensation for their medical expenses, wages lost due to their injuries, the pain they have suffered and many other ways the accident impacted their life.

Reach Out To Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Who Will Fight For You

In Ohio, injured people have two years to file a lawsuit against the person or parties that contributed to their accident, but accident reconstruction experts should be retained as early in the process as possible. Contacting an attorney as soon as possible is one way of improving the likelihood of success for your claim.

From our office in Cleveland, we represent injured people throughout Ohio and in other locations. Consultations are free, and most clients pay no fees unless we win. Call 216-223-7535, email trobenalt@robenaltlaw.com or use our online form to learn more.