With summer weather in full swing, you may have already taken the cover off your bike and began preparing it for travel on Louisiana roads. The feel of the breeze on your face and the excitement of hitting the open road on two wheels can be a freeing feeling, one that you may be eager to embrace.
However, operating a motorcycle in traffic also comes with a certain level of risk, regardless of how safe a rider you consider yourself to be. As a biker, you have little to no control over the actions of others and should another’s negligent behavior cause a collision to occur, the chances you may suffer harm are ever-present.
Knowing the hazards you may face
You may face a variety of potential safety hazards as you ride your bike in traffic and knowledge of these risks could help you prepare to stay safe. Some of the most common causes of accidents involving motorcycles include the following:
- Sudden turn: When another vehicle makes a sudden left-turn into your path without noticing your bike, you may find it nearly impossible to react in time to avoid a potential catastrophe.
- Rear-end crash: While many rear-end accidents may involve little more than minor damage to each vehicle, the situation could prove significantly more dangerous when a motorcycle is involved.
- Impairment or distraction: Drunk and distracted driving are two of the most common causes of accidents and spotting such negligence could prove vital to preventing a crash, but it can also be challenging.
- Car doors: If you ride in areas with cars parked on the side of the road, taking care to avoid slamming into a door that suddenly opens in your path could prove vital to your safety.
Regardless of how it occurs, a motorcycle-related crash runs a higher risk of leaving you with serious or even life-altering injuries. If another party is at fault in the crash, you could be wondering about your available options for legal recourse.
Seeking restitution
With the extensive costs of medical care and the financial strain that can accompany a long road to recovery, suffering serious injuries in a collision can be a disastrous experience. Following the crash, you may wish to exercise your right to pursue accountability in civil court, but you might need guidance in the process. Fortunately, you don’t have to go through this alone, and by speaking with someone with experience in the area, you could become better prepared to pursue the full amount of compensation you’re entitled to receive.
