Our FL Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Explains How Distracted Vehicle Driving Puts Motorcyclists at Risk

Motorcycle accidents caused by distracted vehicle drivers happen more frequently than they should. Distracted vehicle driving is always dangerous, but it poses additional risks to motorcyclists. While it’s always important for drivers to remain vigilant and drive safely on the road, it’s especially critical to watch for motorcycles, which are harder to see and are much smaller than most other vehicles.  Distracted vehicle drivers increase risk of motorcycle accidents

If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident with a distracted vehicle driver, the experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Spetsas Buist are available to offer support and assistance in helping prove the negligence of the at-fault party and help you pursue fair compensation.

Common Causes of Driver Distraction in Florida

There are several reasons why vehicle drivers may become distracted, leading to collisions with motorcycles:

  • Mobile phones. One of the most common distractions for drivers is their mobile phones. Whether texting or making calls, the temptation to use their phones while driving can take their attention away from the road, and they may miss seeing a motorcycle.
  • In-car technology. Modern vehicles have various technological features, such as GPS navigation systems, touchscreen displays, and entertainment systems. While these can enhance the driving experience, they can divert the driver's attention from the road.
  • Passengers. Conversations with passengers, especially if engaged in spirited discussions or arguments, can distract drivers and interfere with their ability to focus on the road.
  • External distractions. External factors such as billboards, other vehicles, or roadside incidents can draw a driver's attention away from the road.
  • Fatigue. Driving while fatigued can be as dangerous as driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A tired driver may struggle to maintain focus and become easily distracted. This can reduce their reaction time to quickly changing road conditions and increase the risk of a crash with a motorcycle or vehicle they may not see.

Ways Florida Motorcyclists Can Reduce the Risk of Being Hit by a Vehicle

Distracted driving is dangerous and remains a growing concern. According to a report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving claimed 3,522 lives in 2021. While not every distracted driving accident can be avoided, there are precautions that motorcyclists can take to help reduce the risk of being in an accident, including the following:

  • Be as visible as possible. The smaller size of motorcycles compared to cars makes them less visible and more likely to be overlooked by distracted drivers. To increase visibility, riders should wear brightly colored or reflective clothing, use headlights during the day, and install additional lights on their motorcycle.
  • Stay alert. Motorcyclists should always remain vigilant and anticipate the actions of other drivers. To reduce the risk of accidents, riders can scan the road for any hazards and stay alert to vehicles that are driving recklessly.
  • Practice defensive riding. Adopt a defensive riding style and assume other drivers may not see you. Take proactive measures to avoid dangerous situations, such as maintaining a safe following distance, avoiding blind spots, and being prepared to take evasive action if necessary.

How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

Motorcyclists can take proactive measures to increase their visibility and minimize the risk of accidents, but they may still be involved in a crash. In such cases, seeking the assistance of a qualified motorcycle accident lawyer can help injured riders pursue justice and take steps to recover the compensation they deserve. A motorcycle accident lawyer can:

  • Investigate the accident. An attorney can gather evidence, find witnesses, get the police report, and talk to accident reconstruction experts to determine the cause of the accident and help prove fault on the part of the distracted driver.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies. Dealing with insurance companies can be overwhelming, especially while recovering from injuries. A motorcycle accident attorney can handle negotiations on your behalf to help you take steps to receive fair compensation for your damages.
  • Provide court representation. If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations with the insurance company, an attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court, fighting for your rights and seeking maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.

If you were injured in a motorcycle crash caused by a distracted driver, a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer at Spetsas Buist could help you recover compensation for damages, including:

In addition, if you lost a loved one due to a distracted vehicle driver, your family could recover wrongful death damages. These include medical and hospital bills, funeral and burial costs, loss of companionship and guidance, and your loved one’s lost wages.

Do You Need to Speak with a Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Florida, you should speak with a skilled and aggressive Orlando motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible because you may be entitled to compensation. Please don’t hesitate to contact us on our website, or you can call our Orlando, Florida personal injury law firm today at (321) 352-7588 to schedule your free consultation by phone. When you schedule a consultation at our law firm, you will get a consultation with a Florida motorcycle accident attorney, not a customer service representative or intake person.

If you need a South Carolina personal injury lawyer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at (843) 638-6590. We have at least one lawyer licensed in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. So, if you’ve been injured in the Southeast, we are happy to speak with you. Don’t hesitate to call us if you need us.

For more information on personal injury cases in general, you can download our free personal injury guide: P.I. 101: Your Quick Guide to Personal Injury Claims.