No matter what circumstances lead up to a motorcycle accident, they always tend to be more catastrophic than accidents involving other types of vehicles. This is due to the fact that motorcyclists have virtually no protection from harm against large passenger vehicles, trucks, and more on our roads. The Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) reported, in Tulare County in 2022, it was estimated that 122 total accidents involving motorcycles occurred. Especially in the case of rear-end accidents, a collision could lead to severe or deadly results.
Maison Law offers representation to individuals who have sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident in Visalia or throughout the entirety of Tulare County. If you have been hurt in one of these accidents or lost a loved one and believe that another party is liable, contact a knowledgeable accident lawyer for a free and confidential case review.
Why Rear-End Accidents Are So Dangerous
When a rear-end collision takes place between two passenger vehicles, it is typically viewed as a minor collision. However, when it involves a motorcycle, it tends to be incredibly dangerous and life-altering. Rear-end accidents typically lead to extensive force, which can cause an accident that leads to injuries or even takes a life.
Every year, approximately seven percent of fatal motorcycle accidents involve a rider who was rear-ended by another vehicle. With so many of these accidents leading to tragic results, more precautions must be taken to prevent these collisions on our roads.
Common Causes of Visalia Rear-End Motorcycle Collisions
Rear-end motorcycle accidents can happen anywhere, though intersections are some of the most common places. This is due to the fact that motorcyclists slow down for an oncoming stop sign or stop light and are then struck from behind by a passenger vehicle. These accidents are also common in areas with heavy traffic.
Some of the leading causes of rear-end motorcycle accidents in Visalia include the following:
Following Too Closely: Most rear-end accidents occur when a passenger vehicle driver is not paying attention to the motorcyclist in front of them at an intersection or other area. Drivers are supposed to always leave plenty of space so that they have time to stop and prevent a rear-end collision with one of these vulnerable parties.
Driver Distractions: When a driver is texting, eating, or engaged in other distractions behind the wheel, they will not have their full attention focused on the vehicle in front of them. When a motorcyclist unexpectedly slows down and a driver is distracted, a severe accident could result.
Impaired Driving: When drivers get behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol, their reaction time could be off. This means that a driver might not see a motorcyclist until it is too late.
Reckless Driving: Reckless driving acts can easily lead to a rear-end collision, as a driver is not obeying traffic laws that keep others safe.
In most cases, the driver in the back is liable for a rear-end collision. This is because a driver is always supposed to maintain a proper distance from another vehicle. However, many factors could be at play in one of these accidents, which is why it is crucial that you have a knowledgeable lawyer on your side.
Damages Available in a Visalia Motorcycle Accident Claim
It is not always easy to determine who is liable in an accident, though many rear-end claims are straightforward. If you can show that another driver caused your rear-end accident and contributed to your injuries, you may be eligible for some of the following damages:
- Medical expenses you have incurred and may incur in the future
- Lost income and future loss of income
- Pain and suffering
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Loss of quality of life caused by the collision
Because it can be difficult to fight the insurance company and negotiate a proper settlement, you should not be expected to handle a motorcycle accident claim on your own. You don’t want to miss out on any financial opportunities, which is why seeking legal help can be incredibly beneficial.
Contact a Visalia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
To become involved in a rear-end motorcycle collision without the same protections as another motorist can be a traumatic event. With extensive property damage and injuries, you may be feeling alone and confused regarding your next steps.
At Maison Law, we believe that you could greatly benefit from moving forward with a claim with a lawyer on your side. We will answer all of your questions regarding your claim and help you navigate the complex legal system for the first time. Please do not hesitate to contact a Visalia motorcycle accident lawyer today for more information and a no-obligation case consultation.
