How do Motorcycle Sideswipe Accidents Happen?

Motorcycle accidents can significantly impact a cyclist’s life, and these incidents can occur in a wide variety of ways. Motorcyclists do not have much protection from the force of a vehicle or the roadway when an accident does occur. One of the most common types of motorcycle accidents is sideswipe collisions. Here, we want to examine how motorcycle sideswipe accidents occur as well as the importance of speaking to an attorney if another driver caused the crash.

How Sideswipe Accidents Occur for Motorcyclists

Unfortunately, sideswipe accidents are not uncommon for motorcyclists, and these incidents can occur when either another motorist veers into a lane occupied by a motorcyclist or when a motorcyclist drifts into another lane themselves. Some of the main causes of motorcycle sideswipe accidents include the following:

• Blind spot incidents. Motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles on the roadway, and they fit more easily into other drivers’ blind spots. Even though drivers should check their blind spots before changing lanes, this is not always what happens. If a driver changes lanes without noticing a motorcyclist next to them, this could lead to a sideswipe accident.
• Driver distraction. Distracted driving is incredibly common on California roadways, often caused by a person distracted by their phone, the radio or GPS, others in the vehicle, food or drink, and more. Distracted drivers are more likely to sideswipe motorcyclists.
• Driving under the influence. Impaired driving is a leading cause of accident fatalities in California each year. Drivers operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs are more likely to collide with other drivers, including motorcyclists.
• Fatigued drivers. Driving while tired is never a good idea. Are too often, individuals operate beyond their limits, thinking they can get home or to their destination before they fall asleep.
• Aggressive driving. Road rage is a major problem for some drivers, and this can lead to severe accidents. If a driver gets mad at a motorcyclist on the roadway and decides to veer into their lane intentionally, this can lead to deadly sideswipe accidents.

Unfortunately, motorcycle sideswipe accidents can lead to severe injuries. This includes, but is not limited to, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord trauma, whiplash, internal injuries, road rash or lacerations, bruising and contusions, broken or dislocated bones, amputated or crushed limbs, and more.

Motorcyclists can also suffer from significant emotional and psychological trauma as a result of the accident and any physical injuries they sustain. The recovery process can prolong this emotional and psychological trauma as well. It is not uncommon for motorcyclists to suffer from feelings of anxiety, fear, and stress, and some even suffer from symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one have been injured in a sideswipe accident while riding a motorcycle, you should reach out to a skilled attorney as soon as possible. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Santa Ana can investigate the incident at work to determine liability. The ultimate goal is to make sure that you receive coverage for your medical bills, property damage expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering expenses. These cases can be challenging, but an attorney will have the ability to handle every aspect of the claim on your behalf.