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What is the Most Common Motorcycle Accident in Seattle, WA?

gosankolaw • Sep 14, 2021

A thrilling and convenient mode of transportation, riding a motorcycle, like any automobile, comes with the risk of accidents. Motorcycle accidents , however, are often slightly different from a typical car accident and can even be more dangerous. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration , “per vehicle miles traveled in 2018, motorcyclist fatalities occurred nearly 27 times more frequently than passenger car occupant fatalities in traffic crashes.”

In order to prevent future accidents, it’s important to be aware of the common types of motorcycle accidents that occur in Seattle, WA so that you can protect yourself when you ride.

Left-turn collisions

According to the NHTSA , 43% of fatal crashes involving a motorcycle and other vehicle had a vehicle turning left while the motorcycle was going straight, passing, or overtaking other vehicles. The smaller size of motorcycles makes it harder for other motorists to see, especially when turning. Motorcyclists should be extra careful at intersections and keep an eye out for cars turning left, even if they do not have their turn signal on.

No-contact accidents

In some cases, a motorcycle accident can occur without another vehicle physically hitting the motorcycle. Typically, this involves the motorcyclist maneuvering dangerously to avoid an accident with another vehicle and then crashing on their own. If the other driver was negligent and caused the crash, the motorcyclist may file a personal injury claim.

Head-on collisions

Most crashes involving a motorcycle and another vehicle result in the motorcycles being impacted in the front. These are particularly dangerous, and often fatal, for motorcyclists because of how unprotected they are from the impact in comparison to the other driver.

While wearing proper safety gear, including helmets, can help in these situations, it is ultimately better to try and avoid such collisions altogether by following the below recommendations:

  • Read the road
  • Drive to the right
  • Reduce your speed
  • Ride off the road

Keep in mind these common accidents as you ride so that you can protect yourself from such incidents. In the awful case that you do become involved in a motorcycle accident, though, know that you may be able to recover your damages and receive deserved compensation by filing a lawsuit against any parties that contributed to the incident.

Legal professionals at Gosanko, O’Halloran, Lepore PLLC can assist you in this situation by advocating for your motorcycle accident case and ensuring you get the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a consultation at 206-275-0700.

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