Motorcycle accidents are a serious matter, and the victims often suffer life-changing injuries. The accidents are often caused by a driver’s speed, and motorcyclists are not protected by helmets or protective gear. Arizona has no helmet law for adults, but it is strongly recommended that you wear one if you are riding a motorcycle. Injuries can range from broken bones and lacerations to traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord damage. Even a minor motorcycle accident can change someone’s life forever.
Hundreds of injuries and dozens of deaths result from motorcycle accidents in Arizona every year
Motorcycle accidents are one of the most deadly types of accidents. In Arizona alone, hundreds of injuries and dozens of deaths result from motorcycle collisions each year. Statistics show that most victims are males in their 30s and 40s. According to the NHTSA, nearly half of all motorcycle crashes were the result of another driver’s negligence or recklessness.
Motorcycle crashes are often the result of a driver failing to yield the right of way to a motorcycle. This may be due to a distraction or a lack of awareness. It may also be the result of alcohol or drug use. Whatever the cause, drivers should be held accountable for their negligent behavior. Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable to collisions when drivers make left turns and fail to yield the right of way.
Other drivers fail to see motorcyclists on the road
Motorcycle accidents in Arizona often occur as a result of other drivers failing to see motorcyclists. Drivers often fail to see them, either because they are distracted or because they don’t have a good view of the motorcycle. Other problems with visibility include traffic stalls, where motorcyclists must squeeze between lanes, which leaves them less room for error.
Motorcyclists need to be more attentive and look over their shoulder and mirrors every time they change lanes. Too many motorists fail to notice a motorcycle and pull out in front of it.
Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents in Arizona
Arizona has high motorcycle fatality rates. Over five thousand people die each year, and eighty thousand suffer injuries. There are over eight million motorcycles on the road in the United States, and over thirty percent of motorcycle accidents involve drivers who are intoxicated. This statistic is alarming, but there are ways to reduce your risk.
Distracted driving, such as talking on a cell phone or viewing the scenery, and driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs are two major factors in motorcycle accidents. Another big contributor is failing to yield. According to a report from the Arizona Department of Transportation, about four percent of motorcycle crashes result from vehicles failing to yield. Fatigued driving also contributes to motorcycle crashes.
Statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident claim in Arizona
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you may have a claim for compensation. However, you must file the claim within a certain timeframe, which is called the statute of limitations. This period is typically two years after the date of the accident. Depending on the state you live in, there may be special rules that apply to you.
If you were at fault in the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. This is because Arizona operates on a pure comparative negligence system, which allows injury victims to recover compensation even if they were 99% at fault. Other states only allow compensation if the victim is at least 50% at fault.
If you need a professional and experience Motorcycle attorney or lawyer in Phoenix, AZ contact Gary Phillips Accident Law Professionals.
