Lane Splitting Can Lead To Serious Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents happen everyday on our Utah roadways, and one major cause of these accidents is lane splitting whether traffic is stopped or not. If you ride a motorcycle as your main form of transportation, it’s essential to arm yourself with all the knowledge you need about preventing accidents. In this article, we will talk about lane splitting and the dangers thereof. Keep reading to learn more. What Is Lane Splitting? Lane splitting refers to the practice of a motorcyclist driving a motorcycle between lanes along the line. Sometimes motorcyclists do this when traffic is at a standstill, maneuvering the small gap between vehicles. In other instances, a motorcyclist may split lanes while vehicles are in motion, and sometimes at high speeds. As you can imagine, lane splitting is dangerous and can lead to fatal injuries, which is why there are various laws on the books with regard to lane-splitting. Is Lane Splitting Legal in the State of Utah? Utah, like many states across the country, does not permit lane splitting at any time. This means that motorcyclists cannot ride between lanes while traffic is in motion and they are also prohibited from doing so when traffic is stopped. This is one of the ways that the state of Utah hopes to keep motorcyclists safe from serious injuries. As of May 2019 though, lane filtering was made legal in Utah. Lane filtering refers to when a motorcycle (other than an autocycle) is allowed to pass another vehicle that is stopped and will be traveling in the same direction in the same lane. An example of this is if multiple cars stop at a stop light, a motorcyclist can legally pass through the cars between lanes until they get to the front of the line. There are rules that set this apart from lane splitting. Here are a few things to note: Lane filtering can only occur on roadways where the speed limit is 45 mph or under and never on highways or freeways. The road must have two adjacent lanes of traffic that are moving the same direction. The motorcyclist cannot drive over 15 mph when lane filtering The Dangers of Lane Splitting When a motorcyclist travels between designated lanes of traffic, he or she can potentially strike the side of an adjacent vehicle, causing an array of different types of motorcycle accidents. When traffic is stopped, this can mean bumps and bruises to the motorcyclist as well as damage to the vehicles involved in the collision. When vehicles are in motion, a motorcyclist can potentially be struck by a vehicle or strike a vehicle. This can lead to the motorcyclist falling off his or her motorcycle, and subsequently increases the risk of the motorcyclist being run over by adjacent or oncoming traffic. In addition to posing a danger to himself or herself, a motorcyclist who rides between lanes may also cause accidents to occur with other vehicles nearby. Cars may swerve to try to avoid the motorcycle, resulting in a collision with another vehicle. Motorcyclists Should Be Careful While on the Road Whenever you are operating a motorcycle, it’s important that you abide by the rules of the road, which means paying attention to the posted speed limits and traffic signs and also avoiding dangerous or reckless behaviors such as lane splitting. This will help keep you and others on the road safe. What You Should Do If a Motorcyclist Is Lane Splitting If you are driving your car and notice a motorcyclist is riding alongside your vehicle between lanes, do not panic or overreact. Continue to drive carefully and be attentive to the motorcyclist near your vehicle. It may be helpful to slow down gradually, allowing the motorcycle to pass without incident, or to safely change lanes in order to give the motorcyclist more room. Contact Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Motorcycle accidents can cause a lot of pain. Whether it be financial, physical, or emotional pain, it’s essential to get the help you need if you’ve been injured in an accident. To learn more about your legal options following a serious motor vehicle collision, be sure to contact our team of personal injury lawyers today. The legal team of Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton will fight diligently for you every step of the way so you can be compensated fairly. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan and serve all residents of the Utah and Salt Lake Counties.
5 Motorcycle Safety Tips Every Rider Must Know
Riding a motorcycle is a thrilling experience, but understanding essential motorcycle safety tips is a necessary task before hitting the road. Safe riding practices will help reduce the number of injuries and fatalities that are all too common on U.S. roads. Today, we’re sharing five of our best tips to ensure your safety as a motorcycle rider. Practice Operating Your Motorcycle Given the fact that motorcycles vary in responsiveness, power, and handling, it’s a good idea to get accustomed to a new or unfamiliar bike in a secluded area first. Once you feel confident, you will be well-equipped to enjoy motorcycle rides wherever the roads may take you. Check Your Bike Before Each Ride No matter where you are in the world, you should always check the following before riding: Tire pressure Tread depth Hand and foot brakes Headlights and signal indicators Fluid levels Signs of oil or gas leaks We understand that life gets busy, but keeping your bike in tip-top shape will pay off in the long run. Wear Proper Gear Now that you have prepared yourself to ride, be sure to wear proper protection as well. It may seem unnecessary at first, but protective gear could mean the difference between life and death in the case of an accident. Here are some essential items you should not overlook: Proper footwear that covers toes and ankles Padded clothing, such as a motorcycle jacket and pants Leather riding gloves A DOT-certified helmet Always Wear a Helmet A helmet is the single most crucial piece of safety gear a motorcyclist can wear. Studies have found that helmets reduce the risk of death by 37-42 percent in the event of a crash. As you select one, look for the DOT symbol on the outside of the back. This indicates that the helmet meets the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard. You should also make sure that the fit feels comfortable and secure. Ride Responsibly One of the most critical motorcycle safety tips is always to ride responsibly. Full cooperation from all motorists is necessary to prevent accidents on our nation’s roads. Riding responsibly encompasses several points including, but not limited to: Obey all traffic laws, including lights, speed limits, lane markings, signals, etc. ● Don’t take risks and drive defensively as if other drivers cannot see you ● Always ride with the flow of traffic and leave plenty of room around you ● Proceed cautiously at intersections Always yield to pedestrians Never operate your motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You in the Event of a Motorcycle Accident Despite following motorcycle safety tips, accidents might still occur. If you find yourself in this situation, reach out to the experienced attorneys at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton to review the best course of action. We can help you obtain your rightful compensation for any damages. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Contact us to schedule your free case evaluation today.
What Are the Odds of Surviving a Motorcycle Accident?
Motorcycle accidents often result in devastating outcomes, so understanding how to protect yourself as an operator is essential. Today, we’re diving deep into the statistics behind motorcycle accidents and sharing tips for staying safe on the road. Chances of Survival Unfortunately, the odds of surviving a motorcycle accident are lamentably grim. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) shared that if a motorcyclist collides with another vehicle, they are 27 times more likely to die and 8 times more likely to get injured than those in the other vehicle. Motorcycle Accident Statistics In 2018, there were 4,985 motorcycle fatalities in the United States. Of those fatalities, 91 percent of victims were male, while only 9 percent were female. 28 percent of the fatalities were riders under the age of 30, while riders over the age of 50 accounted for 7 percent. Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents Many of these accidents happen while cars are making left turns. In this situation, the motorcycle rider is trying to go straight through the intersection. If the motorist turns without paying attention, they could easily strike the motorcyclist. Attentiveness from both parties is needed to help avoid these types of accidents. Another common cause of motorcycle accidents happens when a car is switching lanes. These collisions usually occur on multi-lane roads where it can be hard to see the motorcyclist. To avoid this type of collision, the burden falls on the car operator. Pay attention to your surroundings and always double-check your blind spot to ensure that the lane is clear. Motorcycle Safety Tips If you own a motorcycle, several steps can be taken to ensure the safety of yourself and others. The most essential tip you should remember is to always wear a helmet. The odds of surviving a motorcycle accident increase by 37 percent if a helmet is worn. Additionally, it’s a good idea to make sure your bike is equipped with ABS brakes. ABS, or anti-lock braking system, adjusts the braking pressure accordingly to prevent the wheel from locking. Brakes that lock up could result in a serious accident or injury. ABS technology has been known to reduce motorcycle fatalities by 31 percent. Another tip is to be aware of the time. Most motorcycle accidents occur from 3-9 pm, and that timeframe is considered the deadliest for motorcycle operators. Furthermore, Saturdays and Sundays are the most hazardous days of the week. When riding during these hectic times, be sure to exercise additional caution. Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You A sudden motorcycle accident is a scary and stressful experience and can have unforeseen consequences that ripple through the rest of your life. Fortunately, the accident lawyers at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton are here to help. Since 1993, we have served clients throughout Utah, and we will work tirelessly to maximize the outcome of your case. Our offices are located in Orem, Provo, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Reach out for your free case evaluation today.
What is the Fatality Rate of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorbikes have high-performance capabilities and can be a safe way to travel, but when motorcycle accidents occur, operators are at risk. Since motorcycles do not offer the same protection as an enclosed vehicle, their riders are more likely to be injured or killed in a crash. It is important to understand these statistics, how they affect you, and ways to keep yourself safe on the road. National Statistics According to the most recent information from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 4,985 people were killed in motorcycle accidents in 2018. That number saw a five percent decrease from the previous year, but riders are still overrepresented in traffic fatalities. Utah Statistics In Utah, motorcycle accidents are steadily increasing. According to state troopers, there were 47 fatalities related to motorbikes in 2019. That was a 24 percent increase from the year before, which is very concerning to both law enforcement and motorists. Over the last five years, 1.8 percent of all accidents in Utah involved a motorcycle. That number might not seem concerning initially, but knowing that it represents 5,430 crashes is alarming. This demonstrates the need for heightened motorist awareness. Most Dangerous Times to Operate a Motorcycle In Utah, the majority of accidents involving a motorcycle over the last five years occurred over the weekend, with Saturday being the highest day. Additionally, most of these crashes happened during rush hour traffic from around 4-6 PM. Be sure to exercise extra caution when driving during these times. How to Stay Safe Operating a motorcycle can be more dangerous than driving a normal car or truck. Even with this information, motorbikes are still a safe and economic way to travel. Many steps can be taken to avoid accidents, such as: Always wear a helmet Obey all traffic rules Ride defensively Avoid driving while drowsy Always ride sober Make sure your motorcycle is fit for the road Check the tires Look for signs of oil or gas leaks under the bike Ensure that headlight, taillight, and signals are functioning Check hydraulic and coolant fluid levels weekly Most Common Accidents Ride Apart created a list of the most common reasons motorcycle accidents happen and how to avoid them. Let us review some of the most important ones: A car turns left in front of you – Most accidents happen when a driver is inattentive and does not see you, especially while turning left. The best way to avoid these accidents is to be attentive. Gravel on the road– When you are riding and make a turn, there could be dirt or gravel in the road. The best way to avoid spin outs and crashes due to gravel is to take turns slowly. Unsafe road conditions – Storms can cause the roads to be slippery and unsafe. Hitting a slick patch of ice can be deadly. Slow your speed and be on the lookout for puddles of water during and after a storm. Flickinger Sutterfield and Boulton is Here for You Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately quite commonplace. If you find yourself in this situation, reach out to our experienced attorneys to review the best course of action. We can help you obtain your rightful compensation for any damages. We have offices in Provo, Orem, Saratoga Springs, and West Jordan, Utah. Contact us to schedule your free case evaluation today.
What Time of Day Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
Although motorcycles are a great mode of transportation, motorcycle accidents can happen at any time to even the most skilled drivers. The freedom and exhilaration that comes from riding motorcycles make them quite popular to own. Once a person owns a motorcycle, the responsibility of driving safely falls onto them. New owners need to understand how they can be safe on the road. Recognizing when most motorcycle collisions happen is a big step toward practicing safe motorcycle driving habits. This could save your life or the life of a loved one. The Most Dangerous Time According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the hours of 3-9 pm are deadliest to motorcyclists. In 2017, 25% of all motorcycle accidents involving an injury happened in that 6-hour time frame. NHTSA also collected data showing that in 2017, 42% of all motorcycle fatalities happened during this time. 3-9 pm is the most dangerous time to be riding a motorcycle, with Saturdays and Sundays being the most hazardous. In 2015, the NHSTA found that 2,400 accidents happened during one weekend, and 2,556 accidents happened during the week prior. You should be especially careful while driving your motorcycle during the 3-9 pm time frame on the weekend. Causes There are many reasons behind motorcycle collisions. Most of the time, they can be chalked up to unsafe and inattentive driving. Speeding, impaired or drowsy driving, abrupt lane changes, and unsafe left turns are all major causes of these accidents. Attentive driving is vital for all individuals sharing the road. Please be aware of the other vehicles in the area, the traffic laws, and your current mental/physical ability to drive. Rush Hour Traffic One of the main reasons that these accidents happen during the 3-9 pm time frame is rush hour traffic. Many people get off work and are simultaneously heading home making it one of the busiest times of day. Having so many people attempting to share the road can cause traffic jams, road rage, and distracted driving. Drivers are more likely to make poor decisions that can potentially become hazardous to motorcyclists. Visibility Visibility can be severely impaired during these six dangerous hours of driving. Having so many cars on the road all at once can make it difficult to see far ahead. In addition, the rush hour time frame usually coincides with the setting sun. This can blind motorists, affecting their visibility, thus resulting in poor decision making. One recommendation for motorcyclists is to wear a bright colored jacket while operating the motorcycle. This can help other motorists notice you, even if the sun is impairing their vision. What to Do If You Are Involved in an Accident Even the most safe and skilled drivers may find themselves in an accident. Make sure to exchange information with the other driver, call the police, take pictures of any damages, and alert your insurance company. You may also want to work with an attorney for a variety of reasons after your accident. Flickinger Sutterfield and Boulton is Here for You Motorcycle accidents can unfortunately occur at any time of day. If you find yourself in this situation, reach out to our experienced attorneys to review the best course of action. We can help you obtain your rightful compensation for any damages. We have offices throughout Utah County and West Jordan. Contact us to schedule your free case evaluation today.
Are Motorcycles Worth The Risk?
For most motorcyclists, nothing compares to the thrill of riding out on the open road. Some riders appreciate the aesthetic of a high-quality bike, and others are passionate about the sense of freedom they experience. Many people don’t understand why anyone would want to ride a motorcycle because of the associated risks. Discover the potential dangers of motorcycle riding. Motorcycle Riding Can Be Dangerous Riding any vehicle, whether it’s a car or motorcycle, is inherently dangerous. However, motorcyclists have a heightened risk of sustaining severe injuries when they’re involved in collisions. Truck and car drivers are at least protected by a roof and doors, whereas motorcyclists lack structural support; this can result in head injury. Still, seasoned riders maintain that riding their motorcycle is one of the best feelings in the world. Learn more about motorcycle riding to see if it’s right for you. Characteristics of a Good Motorcyclist If you possess these three traits, then motorcycling may be right for you: You have self-discipline: At the heart of motorcycling is technique and control. Novice riders understand they must start small before taking on the road. It’s best to begin your journey by doing U-turns around a cone in a parking lot since it teaches body and head positioning as well as clutch and throttle control. Although this activity is mundane, you must master the basics so that you can become a confident rider. You’re always willing to learn: Passing your motorcyclist safety course and obtaining your motorcycle license is a promising start. However, there’s no statistical evidence that proves safety courses can make you a safe rider. The only way to be a safer rider is by following this equation: Extensive Personal Practice + Advanced Riding Courses = Enhanced Safety. You must be able to acknowledge there’s always room to grow as a rider. You can manage your expectations: The most common misconception about motorcycling is that it’s all about power and speed; however, expert riders know it’s all about confidence and control. Develop these two skills first, and your speed will naturally increase. Additionally, you should learn how to ride a slow bike first, and then you can graduate to a faster one. Mitigating Risks Sadly, there will always be risk factors outside of a rider’s control, such as bad weather, bumpy gravel, potholes, and reckless motorcyclists. However, there are a few ones you can control: Avoid riding when it’s too hot. Chances are, the sun will obstruct your view of the road. Never assume other drivers can see you. Avoid riding in groups until you’re confident in your skills. Many motorcyclists who ride in packs tend to imitate the rider in front of them, and sometimes, they push themselves beyond their limit. Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton is Here for You Motorcycles are as safe as the people riding them. If you were recently involved in a motorcycle accident that left you injured, you might be eligible for compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney from Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton can help you win your case. Schedule your free case evaluation today.
Do Motorcycle Helmets Save Lives?
With little to protect motorcyclists in the event of a collision, injuries sustained in motorcycle crashes are more severe compared to other vehicle crashes. Motorcycle helmets can help ensure a rider’s safety, but many experienced riders refuse to wear them because they think they’re invincible. Discover the importance of wearing a motorcycle helmet. Do I Need to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet? Only 19 states have a universal motorcycle helmet law, and 28 others have a partial helmet law for specific riders. Illinois, Iowa, and New Hampshire have no motorcycle helmet law. Utah has a partial helmet law that states helmet use is required for riders who are under 18. Regardless of your state’s law, you should still wear a helmet because it’s the most critical piece of motorcycle safety equipment. In today’s blog, we will dispel 5 common motorcycle helmet myths. Myth 1: Motorcycle Helmets Cause Spinal Damage Motorcycle helmets add weight to your head, which makes some riders believe they’re a risk to your spinal cord in the event of an accident. However, this is untrue because they’re designed to absorb the impact of your head hitting the ground. Helmeted riders suffer far fewer spinal injuries compared to riders who don’t wear a helmet. Myth 2: Motorcycle Helmets Are Ineffective at High Speeds The Department of Transportation tests motorcycle helmets by dropping them from a six-foot height, which produces an impact of 13 mph. Many riders believe helmets are only effective if they’re riding at 13 mph or less, but this measure doesn’t have to do with the speed of your bike; it’s regarding the speed at which your head hits the ground in an accident. In approximately 90 percent of accidents, riders fall off their bikes from a six-foot height and strike the ground at roughly 13 mph. Your helmet will still function if you’re riding faster than 13 mph. Myth 3: Motorcycle Helmets Obstruct Peripheral Vision All motorcycle helmets approved by the Department of Transportation must have at least 210-degree vision; this is more than enough to account for standard peripheral vision, which is approximately 180 degrees. Myth 4: Motorcycle Helmets Make Drivers Reckless On the contrary, motorcyclists who wear the most safety gear tend to drive the safest. There’s no evidence to prove helmeted riders behave more recklessly than those who don’t wear a helmet. Myth 5: Only New Motorcyclists Need to Wear Helmets Even if you’ve been riding motorcycles for decades, you can never be too confident on the road. Motorcycle helmets benefit both new and seasoned riders, and they can save your life if you find yourself in an accident. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) states with a universal helmet law topped the list in the number of lives saved through the use of a helmet. Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Can Help Even if you wear a helmet and drive with caution, you may still fall victim to an accident. Make sure you receive the compensation you deserve by holding the negligent driver accountable in court. One of the experienced personal injury attorneys at Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton can help you handle the aftermath of your accident. Schedule your free case evaluation today.
What Are The Safest Motorcycles?
You’ve been eyeing a new motorcycle online or in a showroom, but have heard horror stories of people seriously injured or killed on a bike. You want to ensure it’s safe and have no clue what to look for—that’s what today’s blog post will address. Stay tuned to learn what constitutes a reliable and secure motorcycle and how to pick one that’s right for you. What Constitutes a Safe Motorcycle Many factors go into the safest motorcycles for beginners, emphasis on safety. It’s important to stress that all bikes aren’t created equal when it comes to safety. Every motorcycle will vary in the level of protection, so your priority should be finding a bike that fits your skill level and one you feel most comfortable with. Read about the safest type of motorcycles and how to choose the best motorcycle for you. Touring Motorcycles These motorcycles are heavy, stocky, and equipped with anything you could ask for, but the best thing is their safety track record. They’re also the heaviest motorcycle, so once you become skilled, they become the safest, doing better in collisions. The key factor is their weight. The heavier the bike, the sturdier they are on the road, thus, the less chance of impact to knock it off its course. Keep in mind, these motorcycles aren’t the easiest to drive, simply because of their weight, which can be as much as 800 pounds—a beast of an engine. Once you have the driving down, though, you can rest assured of being safe on the road. Cruisers Surprised this made the list? It does for the same reason touring motorcycles made it since some of these motorcycles are made with a significant bone beneath them, therefore, taking more damage than you’d expect. First, test it out. You will come to see how safe they are, even safer than most other motorcycles. Of course, it all depends on how you ride it. You can be less secure on a cruiser than the guy on a sportbike if you’re not skilled. Factors To Consider Regarding Safety Regarding safety, there are three factors to consider: fit, height, and size. You need to pay attention to your level of comfort when riding a motorcycle, and what feels most comfortable, so you feel more confident. Confidence increases safety. It’s crucial to do these things: Reach all controls easily and levers with your feet Able to touch the ground with at least one foot when standing up and stopped Fit your body to the bike Balance it on the road For a beginner, it’s best to start with a smaller motorcycle engine, which allows you to grow into motorcycling as your skill increases. Be aware of where you’re going to drive. If you plan to use the bike to commute in a big city, you may not need a bike that’s capable of going 120 mph., but if most of that driving will be on the highway, consider a more powerful engine. Contact Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton Even the safest and skilled motorcyclist isn’t immune to accidents. If you or someone you know was involved in an accident, we can help. Our experienced attorneys can answer your questions or address your concerns. Call us to discuss your situation.
Preventing Motorcycle Accidents on Icy Roads
No matter how much of a good driver you are, there will always be risks associated with being on the road. Safe drivers can be caught off guard when behind the wheel due to careless motorists or severe weather conditions. Motorcyclists, however, are exposed to more dangers when they ride their motorcycle during Utah’s harsh winter. Although the risks of a vehicle accident increase when you drive your motorcycle in the snow, you don’t have to give up riding your motorcycle altogether. Here are some tips you should follow to help you safely conquer the icy roads. Understanding Why Your Safety Is in Jeopardy Utah experiences frigid temperatures and an unforgiving mixture of snow, sleet, and rain during the cold season. Not only are these elements inherently dangerous on their own, but they create significant hazards and put riders at risk of experiencing motorcycle accident injuries when combined. Familiarize yourself with the following dangers when riding your motorcycle in the snow: Distracted Driving: As a motorcyclist, you’ve probably heard not to multitask while you’re driving several times before. You already know to not text while driving, but other distractions aren’t talked about enough that you need to be aware not to multitask. Have you ever felt so cold that your physical discomfort was all you thought to shake uncontrollably? When your body temperature unexpectedly drops, it becomes difficult to move—especially when you begin to shake uncontrollably. This creates a distraction that could easily be prevented by layering your clothes. Avoid becoming so cold that you aren’t able to focus on safely getting to your destination. Alternately, you can stay off the road until the cold weather subsides. Experiencing Hypothermia: When you’re driving your motorcycle at fast speeds, it can become challenging to discern cold weather from cold sweat. Although you may think it’s freezing outside, your body has likely produced sweat that has turned into a cold sweat. When you’re covered in cold sweat, the moisture can cause your body temperature to drastically drop—which can result in hypothermia. Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, and it should not be taken lightly. If left untreated, hypothermia can lead to heart failure and respiratory problems. To combat hypothermia, it’s essential to bundle up in thick layers when you’re on your bike. Choose winter clothes that wick away sweat from your body. Slippery Roads: Cold tires have less traction than warm tires, which puts motorcyclists at risk for slipping on icy roads. The risks amplify when driving on black ice. Weak tire traction is hazardous enough, but when paired with snowy roads, it can be deadly. Make sure that your motorcycle’s tires have an adequate amount of pressure before you embark on a trip. Never go for a ride if your tires are low on tread. Avoid speeding and taking risky turns at all costs. Driving in the snow can be a rewarding experience, especially if you’re a fan of winter weather. However, a fun adventure can quickly take the wrong turn. If you find yourself in an accident due to adverse weather conditions, you’ll need to work with an injury lawyer to get the compensation you deserve. Contact Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton to work with an experienced personal injury lawyer.
Motorcycle Accidents and Sudden Stops
If someone stops suddenly or unexpectedly while on the road, this can lead to major collisions. It’s important that other motorists be aware of your intentions on the road. Like sudden swerves, abrupt stops cause a host of hazards, most notably the risk of a rear-end collision. The dangers for motorcyclists are major, whether they are the ones making the sudden stop or another motorist is making a sudden stop. The Provo, UT motorcycle accident attorneys at our law firm consider the dangers of these situations. Motorcyclists Rear-Ending Other Vehicles When other vehicles stop suddenly ahead of a motorcyclist, this can lead to the motorcycle rear-ending the vehicle ahead. Even though motorcycle weigh less and don’t require as much stopping time, the hazards of making a sudden stop are high. In an effort to avoid rear-ending a vehicle, a motorcyclist may swerve or lose control of their vehicle, causing the motorcycle to skid. These kinds of crashes can be deadly for motorcyclists given the injuries they may sustain and how vulnerable they are while skidding along the road. Injuries from Rear-Ending Other Motorists When a motorcycle rear-ends another motorist, the motorcyclist may be launched from their motorcycle given the force of impact. This can result in serious head trauma, broken bones, major lacerations, and even spinal cord injury. There’s a major risk of road rash if you skid along the road. Even if you are wearing a helmet and proper riding gear, the injuries that may be sustained can be heinous. Motorcyclists Getting Rear-Ended If a motorcyclist stops abruptly, there’s a major danger of being rear-ended by other motorists. In these cases, a motorcyclist may wind up thrown from their vehicle, perhaps even getting run over by the vehicle behind them. Injuries from Being Rear-Ended When struck from behind and perhaps being run over, major brain, spine, and internal organ injuries may be sustained. These kinds of incidents can prove fatal depending on the speed and the trauma sustained from being run over. Even with a helmet and riding gear, the sheer amount and nature of trauma a motorcyclist can sustain when struck from behind must not be taken for granted. Tips on Avoiding Sudden Stops If you are on a motorcycle or driving another sort of passenger vehicle, be sure to consider the following safety tips: Follow the Posted Speed Limit – The speed limit helps ensure people can slow down properly even in emergency situations. Avoid exceeding the speed limit to keep yourself and others safe. Situational Awareness – Keep your eyes on the road at all times, noting the vehicles around you as well as road conditions well ahead. Being cautious and aware is crucial for your safety. Maintain Distance Between Other Drivers – Keeping a few car lengths between yourself and the vehicle ahead of you will provide enough stopping time/distance in case someone has to make a sudden stop. Avoid Sources of Distraction – Cell phones, music, rubbernecking, and any other sources of distraction should be avoided at all costs when you are operating a vehicle. Contact Our Legal Team About Your Accident For more information about your legal rights and options after an auto accident, be sure to contact the attorneys of Flickinger Sutterfield & Boulton. We are here to help you in your time of legal need, offering sound legal counsel and guidance.
Motorcycle Accidents and Equipment Failure
No matter how careful and attentive you are while riding, some motorcycle accidents are unavoidable. When motorcycle accidents are caused by equipment failure, riders typically have no idea a problem was present. If the equipment on your motorcycle does not work, it drastically increases the likelihood of an accident. Whether due to brake failure, tire failure, faulty wiring, or another malfunction, these accidents can lead to serious injuries and sometimes death. At Flickinger, Sutterfield, & Boulton in Provo, UT, we fight on behalf of victims in these accidents. If you suffered an injury, our attorneys can protect your rights and help you recover damages. Cases Involving Motorcycle Accidents and Equipment Failure If any part of your bike failed and you were in an accident, you may be able to recover compensation for your injury. Equipment failures can be grounds for a product liability case. The bike manufacturer or the manufacturer of the failing piece of equipment can be held liable for damages. At Flickinger, Sutterfield & Boulton, we have the experience and resources necessary to identify and hold the responsible party accountable. Common Types of Equipment Failure Leading to Motorcycle Accidents Motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to die in an accident than motor vehicle drivers. Those who survive can be saddled with serious injuries such as traumatic brain injury (TBI), road rash, spinal cord injuries, burns, cuts, fractures, internal injuries, loss of limb, and paralysis, among others. These injuries can happen due to: Tire failure Rear tire defects Defective helmets Brake failure Engine problems Faulty wiring Defective pedals Stuck throttles Clutch failure Turn signal problems Locked steering wheel Chain failure Handlebar defects Potential Liable Parties Often, the manufacturer of the bike or its defective parts is the responsible party in these accidents. If the equipment was manufactured using cheap or low-quality parts, and the decision to manufacture in that way led to your injury, the manufacturer can be held liable in a lawsuit. The company that designed the equipment can also be held liable if the equipment was poorly thought out and had a high risk of failure. Even the shop or technician where you bring your bike for maintenance can be held legally responsible if they did a poor job maintaining it. Why You Need a Proven Motorcycle Accident Lawyer on Your Side Determining who is responsible for the accident is not always easy, which is why you need someone who really knows how to collect and evaluate all the facts. Further, you deserve peace of mind in knowing you will receive as much compensation as possible for your injury. The team of attorneys at Flickinger, Sutterfield & Boulton can get the job done right. We can secure the best possible outcome and help you get things back to normal. Contact Flickinger, Sutterfield & Boulton If you were injured in a motorcycle accident on account of defective equipment, turn to Provo’s finest legal minds, Flickinger, Sutterfield & Boulton. We can help you collect maximum compensation for your injury. Call or contact us today at (801) 753-1616 to schedule a consultation.
Motorcycle Accidents Caused By Road Debris: Are You Entitled To Compensation
What comes to mind when you think of motorcycle accidents? Collisions? Cars making left-hand turns? Chances are, debris is not the first thing that comes to mind. However, many motorcycle accidents are caused by road debris. Whether on account of gravel, fallen goods, branches, or other obstacles, motorcycle accidents can result in serious, lasting injuries, or even death. If you suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident due to road debris, you may be entitled to compensation. Call on the experienced attorneys at Flickinger, Sutterfield, & Boulton in Provo, UT to find out. An Overview of Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Road Debris According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, more than 50,000 debris-related motorcycle accidents take place annually. Of these, nearly 20 percent (9,800) result in some sort of injury. Sadly, an average of 125 lives are lost in these accidents each year. Because motorcycles have only two wheels, they are more likely to be injured in debris-related accidents than cars, trucks, buses, and other vehicles. Operators are not shielded by a protective steel cage, either. The motorcyclist is exposed on all sides, leaving them susceptible to airborne debris, such as kicked up rocks. Even debris as small as gravel can result in a loss of traction. There are many types of debris that can cause motorcycle accidents, including: Tree branches: After a storm, tree branches are often scattered on the road. Rocks and gravel: Worn down roads often contain tiny rocks and gravel. Tire parts: When a tire blows, it usually leaves pieces behind on the road. These pieces of tire can be an obstacle for motorists. Truck cargo: If a truck driver does not secure the cargo, it can fall off. This can include metal debris from appliances, as well as tool boxes, ropes, furniture, and more. Trash: Litter, such as soda cans and food, can pose a hazard on the road. How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You It is vital that, when riding a motorcycle, you keep an eye out for debris on the road. However, even the most attentive rider may be unable to prevent an accident. An accident can result in injuries, such as road rash, broken limbs, soft tissue injury, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury (TBI), amputation, and death. It is often difficult to locate the debris in a debris-related motorcycle accident. It is also challenging to pinpoint the responsible party, whether it is another driver, a governing body, or another party. That is why you need an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer on your side. Our team of seasoned attorneys at Flickinger, Sutterfield & Boulton will get to the bottom of your case and help you secure the maximum compensation possible. Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today If you were a victim in a motorcycle accident caused by road debris, you owe it to yourself to contact Flickinger, Sutterfield & Boulton. As an accident victim, you have a right to secure compensation for your injuries. We will help determine the severity of your injuries, identify the responsible party, quantify the damages, and secure maximum compensation on your behalf. Contact our practice or call (801) 753-1616 today.