Nothing you can do on a motorcycle guarantees that you will avoid an accident. Other drivers have a lot of power over the risks you face on the road. That said, understanding the most common types of motorcycle accidents can make you more aware, and this can keep you safer.
With that in mind, every rider should know that the left-turn accident is one of the most common — and the most dangerous — accidents that motorcyclists face. This is a crash where a second vehicle pulls across the motorcyclist’s traffic lane as they turn left in front of them.
Why Is It So Common?
The biggest reason that these crashes occur so often is that motorcycles are small and easily overlooked. Drivers of passenger vehicles often glance quickly for other cars but fail to see motorcycles before committing to a left-hand turn. This dangerous oversight, known as “looked but failed to see” (LBFTS), happens because drivers aren’t conditioned to anticipate motorcycles on the road.
Other contributing factors include:
- Distracted driving: Cell phone use, GPS distractions, or conversations can pull a driver’s attention away.
- Speed misjudgment: Drivers may see a motorcycle but incorrectly estimate its speed or distance.
- Blind spots: Vehicles with larger frames, like SUVs and trucks, often have significant blind spots that obscure motorcycles.
Why Is It So Dangerous?
All crashes are dangerous due to the low amount of protection you have on a motorcycle. Left-turn accidents, however, stand out because of their sudden nature and high-speed impact.
In most cases:
- The motorcyclist has the right of way and assumes the car waiting to turn will yield.
- The motorcyclist does not slow down because they do not anticipate a turn — nor should they need to.
- The car makes a last-second decision to turn left, leading to a devastating collision.
The combination of speed, surprise, and a lack of physical protection often results in severe injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), even with helmets
- Broken bones and spinal injuries
- Internal organ damage
- Road rash and lacerations
Unfortunately, these crashes are not just common but also life-altering, and victims may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
What Rights Do You Have After a Left-Turn Accident?
If you’ve been involved in a left-turn motorcycle accident, it’s essential to understand your legal rights. Victims often face overwhelming medical expenses, loss of income, and emotional trauma. Fortunately, you may have a right to seek compensation for:
- Medical bills (current and future treatment)
- Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage to your motorcycle
If the other driver was at fault for failing to yield or driving negligently, you can hold them accountable for their actions. Navigating the legal process, however, can be complex, especially when insurance companies attempt to blame the motorcyclist.
Why You Should Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
To protect your rights and maximize your compensation, it’s essential to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer. An experienced attorney can:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence like witness statements and police reports.
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf.
- Represent you in court if necessary.
A skilled lawyer takes the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on recovery. Don’t let a negligent driver’s actions derail your life — take steps to get the justice and compensation you deserve today.
