Motorcyclist or Car Driver – Who is to Blame?
In local news we often hear about fatal motorbike accidents and many times we hear that it was probably the rider’s fault. However, motorcyclists only make up 1% of road users/traffic but motorbike riders make up over 14% of deaths and serious injuries from road collisions.
Our solicitors are aware that statistically, car drivers are usually at fault as they have failed to notice the motorcycle and car drivers pull from side roads, change lanes, and collide with the motorcyclist causing serious injuries.
In 2014 there were 5,558 serious accidents involving motorcyclists and 339 fatal motorbike accidents. Studies show that motorcyclists are roughly 38 times more likely to be killed in a road traffic accident than a car occupant.
The road could be a safer place with a bit more education on road safety. There are certain things that both motorcycle and car drivers can do to help minimise casualties.
Motorcyclists could:
- Try and anticipate the actions of other drivers
- Place themselves in the safest and best place to maximise their visibility
- Correct gear could not only save lives but increase visibility such as padded bike jackets and boots. Also, wearing high visibility jackets during the day as well as at night could make bikers visible to other road users.
- The correct helmet helps to save lives. The ‘right helmet scheme’ will help bikers find the best helmet and ultimately save lives.
Car drivers can also help with some easy steps:
- Take longer to look for bikes and always be aware of your surroundings
- Keep your distance
- Always take extra care to check for bikes when changing lanes
- Be aware that motorbikes could pass you on either side of the car
If you have been involved in a motorbike accident please contact our specialist team of motorcycle accident solicitors today and we can take on your case on a no win, no fee basis.