Left turn accidents are the most common type of motorcycle crash involving two vehicles and they are one of the greatest risks that motorcycle riders face. Rensch & Rensch Law is a motorcycle accident law firm in Omaha, Nebraska that helps individuals who have been hurt in this type of crash. Why do these crashes take place and what can be done to prevent them?
Understanding One of the Biggest Risks Motorcyclists Face in Omaha, Nebraska
Rensch & Rensch Law is a personal injury law firm in Omaha, Nebraska that works with motorcycle accident victims and their families to help them seek a recovery following a serious accident. Motorcycle riders are vulnerable road users because riders don’t have the chassis of a vehicle to protect them in the event of a crash. Riders are more at risk of being thrown from their bikes, more at risk of hitting or skidding on the road in a fall, and generally more exposed to the risks of the highway. While the popular media might depict motorcyclists as “dare-devils” or “risk-takers,” most motorcyclists are well-trained road users who have a close knowledge of their bikes and the risks of riding. Many riders take the time to educate themselves about road hazards and some take special training courses. They know the risks they face, and they take steps to prevent injury. However, when drivers make serious errors behind the wheel, the person most likely to suffer a serious injury is the motorcycle rider. One of the biggest risks that motorcyclists face involves drivers taking a left hand turn. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, left turn accidents are the most common type of motorcycle accidents involving two vehicles. In 2013, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration evaluated the causes of two-vehicle motorcycle accidents, and found that the most common type of two-vehicle accident was when the motorcyclist was traveling straight while the other vehicle was making a left hand turn. 42% of two-vehicle motorcycle accidents took place when a driver was making a left-hand turn and the rider was traveling straight, passing, or overtaking another vehicle. Rensch & Rensch Law is a motorcycle accident law firm in Omaha, Nebraska that is here to help you understand why this type of accident occurs, what you can do to prevent it, and what you can do if you or someone you love was hurt in a left turn accident.
Motorcycle Struck By a Car Making a Left-Hand Turn in Omaha, Nebraska
If you were struck while riding your motorcycle (by a car making a left-hand turn), you may have the right to make a claim against negligent parties and their insurers. Drivers have a responsibility to share the road with all motorized vehicles, including motorcyclists, and they have a responsibility to watch for pedestrians, bicyclists, cars, and motorcycle riders before making a turn. The reason why these accidents occur is often the result of the smaller profile that a motorcycle takes up on the road. Drivers may be watching for other cars and even pedestrians, but may not be looking for motorcyclists. If a vehicle struck you while making a left hand turn, how can you determine who is at fault for this accident? Often, the party at fault is the driver going straight. However, sometimes the motorcyclist might be partially to blame, if he or she was speeding through an intersection or sharing a lane with another vehicle. If the other driver was to blame for your crash, you may be able to seek damages for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering damages. Rensch & Rensch Law is a personal injury law firm in Omaha, Nebraska that may be able to assist you with your claim. Our motorcycle accident attorneys can review your case, evaluate the factors leading to your accident, and pursue negligent parties to the fullest extent of the law.
Preventing Left-Hand Turn Crashes in Omaha, Nebraska
How can left-hand turn accidents be prevented? Drivers have a responsibility to look carefully before making a left hand turn. Riders also have a role to play in preventing these accidents. Obeying speed limits and trying not to overtake vehicles in intersections can prevent many of these accidents. Were you hurt in a left turn accident in Omaha, Nebraska? Have a question about your rights? Rensch & Rensch Law is a motorcycle accident law firm in Omaha, Nebraska that can fight for you. In the majority of left turn accidents, the other vehicle will often be to blame. This means that the rider may have the right to seek damages to cover his or her medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Have questions? You and your loved ones only have a limited amount of time to make a claim under the law. Contact Rensch & Rensch Law, personal injury attorneys in Omaha, Nebraska today. Or, reach out to USAttorneys.com to get connected with one of our lawyers today.